BUFORD — The annual Little Miss Buford and Miss Sweetheart of Buford pageant were held for the first time at the new Buford High School Performing Arts Center. The pageant saw 135 girls on Saturday, February 29, ranging in age from 0-18 years old compete for 30 crowns.

This year’s event was also the first year that contestants had to do an interview round which was held on Friday night.  Contestants were able to receive immediate feedback from the judges. The interview portion was well received and pageant director, Myra Sharp claims that the interview round is a “great opportunity for the young ladies to practice public speaking and interview skills.”

The pageant gives the contestants a chance to get glamorous new looks and the excitement of wearing a gorgeous gown.  “Each year we come together to support and empower these young ladies as they develop life-time skills of poise and self-confidence.  Often times, we celebrate with them as they conquer fears and learn what it truly means to perform under pressure. Confidence breeds beauty and we want each young lady to know that she can make a difference in her life and the lives of others through positive pageantry,” says Myra Sharp of the pageant and the girls who compete in it.

The pageant serves as a major fundraiser for the Buford Marching Band of Wolves.  The money collected from this event goes towards the purchase of new equipment, repairs of existing equipment and uniforms, new music, and travel expenses to competitions.  

Win or lose, this was a day that the young girls competing will never forget.