Russellville native Madeline Grace Mitchell Gwin’s reaction to being chosen as Mrs. America.

It’s been five months since Russellville native Madeline Mitchell Gwin donned the Mrs. America crown. This week, she takes the next step – competing for Mrs. World in China.

The competition, Gwin said, is similar to the Mrs. America pageant – interviews, evening gown, swimsuit and on-stage interview. “This is the absolute farthest you can go as a Mrs. Contestant. Mrs. World is the final and most prestigious pageant of all,” Gwin said.

Gwin flew out Monday, destination Dongguan, China. The pageant continues March 1-12.

“I am extremely humbled and excited to be given such an amazing opportunity to represent our country,” Gwin said. “If I happen to win, I will be the first person ever from Alabama to hold the title.”

Gwin will compete against 30 other women representing countries including Malaysia, Guatemala, France, Vietnam, Brazil, Ireland and Armenia. The pageant is reportedly live streaming; details may be found at www.mrsworld.com and on Gwin’s “public figure” Facebook page.

Preparation has been an important part of Gwin’s life for the last few months.

“I have been preparing mentally, physically and spiritually,” she said. “There is a ton of preparation that goes into an international pageant – late night gym sessions, interview/walking training, costume and gown designing, interview attire, rehearsal outfits, event outfits, gifts for contestants and hosts, makeup training, tanning, news watching – the whole nine yards.”
Gwin said she is excited to experience a new culture. She will have some limited time for sightseeing, and husband Ryan will join her part-way through the trip to enjoy China together.

“I love meeting new people and seeing all of the beautiful parts of the world God created,” Gwin said. “Ryan and I love experiencing new places together, so I am beyond thrilled to be able to have him there with me to share this special time in my life.”

There’s only one thing that makes Gwin nervous – “leaving my sweet baby for two weeks.”

“But I know he is in good hands with my family,” she added.

“Like” Gwin’s page on Facebook to keep up with all the latest details.