A Worthy Woman’s Words: GET UNCOMFORTABLE.
What Happens When You Say Yes to the Thing That Scares You Most
At Beauclair Photography, some of our most meaningful sessions begin with a woman who almost didn't book. Almost talked herself out of it. Almost let fear have the final word. Ryanna Cook is one of those women — and her story is one we couldn't wait to share.
Ryanna is a busy mom, entrepreneur, and traveler who currently holds the title of Mrs. Lake Stevens America and is competing for Mrs. Washington America in March 2025. Her platform, Breaking Cycles, is rooted in her own lived experience and is dedicated to bringing awareness to trauma-informed healing for children in volatile environments. She is, in every sense of the word, a woman doing the work. And it all started with one decision: to get uncomfortable.
In Ryanna's Own Words “Want to Grow? Get Uncomfortable”
Hi to the Beauclair community! My name is Ryanna (rye-anne-uh) and I am a busy mom, entrepreneur and traveler, who currently holds the title of “Mrs. Lake Stevens America”. I will be competing for the title of “Mrs. Washington America” later in March 2025. My platform: Breaking Cycles is connected to my own life experience and I aim to bring awareness to the endeavors that are providing trauma informed healing to children in volatile environments.
How did I get into such a position? The short answer: I chose to get uncomfortable. So how could a PAGEANT make me so uncomfortable? Well, I had never performed on stage (outside of elementary school concerts) nor was I a gymnast, trained dancer or cheerleader. Display myself on a stage in a swimsuit?! Get out! And only recently with Shannon, had I participated in my very first professional photoshoot. Every bit was just NEW.
The prospect of jumping into so many new experiences for one competition scared me. I denied applying on numerous occasions before finally saying yes. After all, I had openly stated "I would NEVER do that" — so of course I had to.
I didn't know what I was going to get out of it yet. But I was all in.
From Naive to Empowered
As a late entry, my path to the crown has been short but full. From the moment I obtained my sash in September, I had announced my title at a women's networking conference, become an ambassador for my favorite local organization, raised thousands of dollars for nonprofits, stepped up to a podium to speak to my city, and met with local families and businesses. Each encounter was deep and uplifting. Each child that skipped a breath when meeting me — humbled me. I was representing an entire community as a role model and voice for others.
I knew I was vulnerable to unfavorable opinions. I had to fit myself into a box to represent a brand. But as I nervously stepped into my commitments in crown, I found my refinement. I became better at letting my anxiety redirect me. I learned to speak more clearly, to maintain poise through authentic engagements. David Bowie sang it best in Golden Years: "Never look back, walk tall, act fine." And I am fine. More than fine. I have become empowered and intrigued by what comes next.
The Shoot That Almost Didn't Happen
Coincidentally, I had scheduled my session with Shannon before I ever received my title. By the time shoot day arrived, I had already experienced crowned engagements that, I believe, prepared me to shine in front of the camera as the princess my younger self had always dreamed of being.
With every glide practice — yes, just like in Miss Congeniality — I am becoming a version of myself I didn't know I wanted to be. Someone who represents her community with grace, intelligence, and a touch of humor. Someone who has learned that growth lives just outside the edge of comfort.
Your Invitation to Get Uncomfortable
Ryanna's session is a reminder of what becomes possible when you stop waiting to feel ready. Whether you're stepping into a new title, a new chapter, or simply a version of yourself you haven't fully met yet — we would love to help you see her.
At Beauclair Photography, we specialize in women's empowerment and personal branding portraits in Kirkland and the greater Seattle area. Book your session today and take your own first step toward getting uncomfortable.
