kim nehrt photography, springfield, illinois

I had the privilege of meeting Kerby a few years ago for her senior pictures!! Some of her senior pics are on my all-time favorite list which is why I was so excited to have a little session with her after she become the Sangamon County Fair Queen not too long ago!!! And just so you know, it’s kind of in her blood — her mom also was Sangamon County Fair Queen, just a few years ago (right mom…)! I asked Kerby a few questions so you could all learn more about her so let me introduce to you — Miss Kerby Ingram!! 🙂

Why did you compete this year? My family and I were at an auction in Virden and the auctioneer announced to the small crowd that my mom was there as a former Sangamon County Fair queen and I was so shocked that she was still getting attention. My competitive side made me decide I would finally try it. The same auctioneer, Derek Long, was the MC at my pageant this year.

What was the hardest part? As contestants, we sit down with the judges and have a four minute face-to-face interview with them. It was the most difficult for me because there is a lot of pressure surrounding the interview, as it is worth the most points.

What was the most fun part of the pageant? As a swimmer, I have zero coordination and for the pageant, we did a dance production number to “Man, I Feel Like a Woman.” After weeks of practicing in my driveway and living room in front of anyone who would watch, it was so much fun to pull it off perfectly.

What has been the most fun part since being crowned? I was immediately taken to the GrandStand following the crowning and it was incredible to go on stage and announce myself as the new queen! Besides that, just watching every little girl look at me with amazement and love!

Any special people you would like to publicly thank? Of course I have to thank my loving parents, Kurt and Kerry Ingram, who have truly become my best friends throughout this process. I cannot thank them enough for all of their time and effort. My younger brothers, Konnor and Kyle; my grandparents, Ron and Marcia Marr and Tommie Ingram for their support and love. The entire Sangamon County Fair Board for their generosity. My pageant crew that prepped me for a month and for the new family I have gained in the pageant world. My neighbors on Glenwood Avenue and my friends who laughed at me when I said I was doing a pageant but were all with me every step of the way. I’m just so grateful to anyone and everyone who has helped me become the Queenly girl I am today!! 🙂

Kerby — you’re adorable!! It was so much fun seeing you again!! Go do great things!! And also — that Mori Lee gown was a PERFECT choice!!!!