First time is a charm, right?

That's what it seemed like for 7-year-old Hailey Stroh when she charmed the judges to earn the title of Miss Washington Princess during the first pageant she ever competed in. 

"When it was the last part (before the winner was announced), my tummy started to tickle," Hailey said. "I was so excited. At the final moment, I was surprised it was me."

This win qualified her to compete against other state winners for the title of 2014 National Princess the week of Thanksgiving in Anaheim, Calif. 

But she won't be traveling alone. Although the pageant circuit is a new thing Hailey's family has dived into, several family members have taken on supporting roles.

Hailey's mom, Theresia Stroh, said she learned about the National American Miss Pageant through an invitation in the mail. She was impressed with the family-focused approach the pageant displayed as well as how it helped to develop confidence, public speaking and service to the community.

After talking with Hailey's older sister, Natalie, last spring about entering the pageant, Hailey expressed interest in doing it as well. 

"I thought it would be a good thing to help them gain poise and make a difference in the community," Theresia said.

In addition to picking out their dresses, both girls worked with their cheerleading coach to alter a routine for the talent portions of their age divisions. Their parents also helped them practice for the introduction and interview parts by asking them questions while traveling in the car or picking raspberries in their yard. 

The whole family also pitched in to help with raising funds, with 9-year-old brother Preston going around the neighborhood selling cookies alongside them. Hailey's dad, Jim, served as her escort for the pageant, while Preston escorted Natalie.

Their effort paid off when Hailey was named 2014 National American Miss Washington Princess during a summer, statewide pageant. Natalie did well in her age group as well, and Hailey said her sister was genuinely excited that she won. 

"Natalie was in her interview when my name was announced," Hailey said. "But when my brother held up the trophy, she just hugged me and said congratulations."

In addition to being named Miss Washington Princess, Hailey was named first runner up in the art contest and second runner up in the talent competition, among other awards. 

Theresia said she can see the benefits of both Natalie and Hailey being involved with the pageants, giving them increased confidence and more avenues to serve the needs of the community. Natalie has started a couple nonprofits, Snug as a Bug Blanket and A Modest Moment, and Hailey is working with Make a Wish Foundation.

Hailey admitted that she wanted to win mainly for the trip to Disneyland. She said she's excited to spend time with her family on the trip and is especially looking forward to enjoying some Dole Whip served at Disneyland's Tiki Room.

If she were to win the national pageant, she would receive scholarship money, photo shoots, beauty consultations along with a trophy bigger than her. Plus she would be featured in promotion of future pageants and travel to represent the pageant.

A lover of princesses and the color pink, Theresia said Hailey was born with princess-like qualities and serves as the family's peace-maker. 

"She's a natural in pretty much every area," Theresia said. "The amazing thing is that she is just as beautiful and sweet on the inside as she is on the outside."

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