Context:

Sadie Schiermeyer and her mother, Arian Orlando, made pageant history by becoming the first mother-daughter duo to both win the Miss Texas title, with Orlando winning in 1994 and Schiermeyer in 2025. Their shared pageant experiences have strengthened their relationship, allowing them to bond over both the glamorous and challenging aspects of pageantry. While both women won the crown on their second attempt, they acknowledge the evolution of pageant life, from the introduction of social media to changes in competition elements like the removal of the swimsuit segment. Schiermeyer, inspired by her mother and a high school friend, pursued pageantry not just for the glitz but for the chance to serve her community and advocate for causes like mental health and wellness. Despite challenges, such as online criticism, both women emphasize the importance of intellect and education in pageantry and cherish the opportunity to share this unique legacy together.

Dive Deeper:

• Sadie Schiermeyer and her mother, Arian Orlando, both won the Miss Texas title 31 years apart, making them the first mother-daughter duo to achieve this milestone in the pageant's 88-year history. Both women succeeded on their second attempt at the title, underscoring the perseverance needed in the pageant world.

• The evolution of pageantry is evident in the changes they experienced, such as the influence of social media and the elimination of the swimsuit competition, which has alleviated some of the pressures associated with pageant participation. Schiermeyer notes how current competitors can express vulnerabilities and personal growth, which was less common during her mother's competitive years.

• Schiermeyer began competing at 16, inspired by a friend's success in the Miss America Teen pageant, and not directly by her mother, who wanted her daughter to pursue pageantry out of genuine interest. This decision has allowed Schiermeyer to use her platform for community service and advocacy, particularly focusing on mental health and wellness.

• Orlando's initial involvement in pageantry began with the Miss Teen Texas pageant, and despite her early inexperience, she ultimately won Miss Texas on her second try. The scholarship winnings from the title helped fund her education, a benefit that Schiermeyer also received, enabling her to pursue a master's degree.

• Both women reflect on the misconceptions about beauty pageants, emphasizing that success involves more than just appearance, highlighting the importance of intellect, talent, and education. Their shared experiences have enhanced their bond, allowing them to enjoy the pageant journey together and appreciate the generational impact of their achievements.

• Social media has introduced new challenges for modern pageant contestants, with Schiermeyer encountering online criticism about her appearance. However, she views these interactions as opportunities to connect with others and advocate for important issues, turning negative experiences into platforms for positive change.

• The Miss America organization has shifted its focus to include advocacy and community service, a concept that was still developing during Orlando's time. Both women appreciate how this change allows contestants to leverage their roles for broader societal impact, aligning with their personal values and goals.