At 42, Brooke Michelle Carter, crowned Mrs. Louisiana Prime 2024, is living proof that life’s greatest transitions can be opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and sisterhood. From her journey with Prime Pageants to starting her own nonprofit, Brooke embodies a spirit of resilience and empowerment.
From the moment I started talking to Kristen, the Director of Prime Pageants, I realized that this was a much different pageant system from the others I had seen.
“From the moment I started talking to Kristen, the Director of Prime Pageants, I realized that this was a much different pageant system from the others I had seen,” Brooke shares. That initial connection with the Prime community turned into a life-changing experience, where self-care, personal growth, and a unique sisterhood are at the heart of the journey.
A New Life in Louisiana
Brooke’s story took a significant turn in 2023 when her husband, Robert, accepted a position as CFO for a local health system in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The move meant leaving behind Michigan, where Brooke had spent the past 20 years, creating a life filled with friendships, faith, and familiar routines.
“Having lived in Michigan for the past 20 years, I found it very difficult to leave,” Brooke admits. “I now split my time between Michigan and Louisiana with my two dogs, Norman and Stanley.” Despite the challenges of relocating, Brooke has embraced her new life in Louisiana, finding a balance between her Michigan roots and her evolving future in the South.
The Power of Sisterhood
For Brooke, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a part of Prime Pageants is the genuine connections she’s formed with other state titleholders. “The other queens are my favorite part! I love the relationship I have with them. It’s such a unique sisterhood,” Brooke shares.
The other queens are my favorite part! I love the relationship I have with them. It’s such a unique sisterhood.
Through monthly Self-Care Challenges and personal development goals, Prime queens hold each other accountable in ways that extend beyond the competition stage. “Having to be accountable to the group keeps me on track. It’s about trying to better yourself consistently, which I love,” she says.
These challenges have been an integral part of Brooke’s self-care journey, giving her the structure and support she needs to prioritize her well-being.
Finding Balance Through Self-Care
Like many women, Brooke finds it challenging to carve out time for herself amidst the demands of life. “A woman’s work is never done,” she reflects. “At some point, you just have to put it down and do something for you.”
For Brooke, that “something” often involves her favorite form of self-care—running. “Going running outdoors has always been my favorite mental detox. No matter what kind of mood or rut I’m in, I can usually cure it with a trail run,” she shares. Running isn’t just a physical release for Brooke; it’s a way to mentally reset and reconnect with herself.
Beyond running, Brooke’s self-care routine includes spending time with her close-knit group of female friends and attending social events with her all-female Mardi Gras Krewe, the Krewe of Artemis. “I love the Artemis events; those women are crazy!” Brooke laughs. “We do a lot of social events throughout the year, and of course, the Mardi Gras parade.”
Self-care isn’t just about physical health—it’s about mental clarity, emotional connection, and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up.
Brooke also finds joy in staying organized. “Keeping my house and office space organized has a huge effect on me,” she says. Creating a calming, minimalistic environment is key to maintaining her emotional balance and sense of control.
Embracing a New Spiritual Journey
In addition to her commitment to physical and emotional self-care, Brooke’s spiritual journey has taken a new direction. “When I lived only in Michigan, I used to be really involved in my Catholic Church,” she explains. But over the past year, she’s become intrigued by the metaphysical world and has begun learning to read tarot cards. “I consult my tarot deck with questions all the time,” Brooke says, finding this practice to be an unexpected but fulfilling part of her evolving spirituality.
Bringing Healing Through Art
Brooke’s desire to give back has culminated in the launch of her nonprofit, the Happy Art Society, a program designed to provide a safe, creative space for children to explore art as a form of therapy. “The Happy Art Society is a safe place for children to create art as a form of art therapy,” Brooke explains. Initially, she founded the organization to help children dealing with grief, but it has since expanded to welcome any child who needs a space to reset and find comfort.
“I started this project hoping to help children who were dealing with grief and connect them with each other,” she says. The Happy Art Society has become a meaningful platform that allows Brooke to combine her love for art with her passion for helping others.
Looking Ahead
As Mrs. Louisiana Prime 2024, Brooke Michelle Carter continues to inspire others through her commitment to self-care, personal growth, and service to her community. Whether she’s leading the Happy Art Society, running along scenic trails, or building connections with her fellow queens, Brooke’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of nurturing all aspects of oneself.
Prime Pageants has given me the opportunity to grow in ways I never imagined. It’s about more than just being a queen—it’s about becoming the best version of yourself.
Brooke’s story is one of courage, authenticity, and hope. As she continues to navigate life’s transitions with grace and strength, she remains dedicated to uplifting others and embracing every opportunity for growth along the way.
To learn more about Prime Pageants visit www.primepageants.com.
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