Story by Emily Reed/ Photos Contributed
For Miss Blackberry Alexis Pierce, becoming close to her queen sisters and enjoying the various responsibilities associated with being queen have been a highlight of her reign this year.
The pageant is meant to complement the annual Black and Blue Berry Festival held at Petals from the Past in Jemison.
It is also a fundraiser for the Jemison Lions Club.
Although things have been a bit different with COVID-19, Pierce said she has still been able to attend events and meet various people throughout Chilton County.
“I have also gotten to meet a large amount of business owners in Chilton County, and gotten to experience buying Christmas gifts for less fortunate children,” Pierce said.
Pierce also said she was able to meet a dress designer, Jonathan Kayne, during one of her queen events.
Pierce said she initially decided to compete for the title of Miss Blackberry because she had seen the ways the queens participated in various events throughout the community.
“I wanted a way to give back, and I also wanted to be a part of something,” Pierce said.
“One thing that has surprised me about being in the role of Miss Blackberry is seeing all the things that the Jemison Lion’s Club does for their queens and making sure that we are always taken care of.”
Pierce said a typical day for her is either going to work or school, where she is a sophomore at Chilton County High School.
When she graduates high school, Pierce has plans to attend Auburn University where she hopes to become a large animal veterinarian.
For the remainder of her reign, Pierce hopes to continue supporting the small businesses throughout Chilton County, and meeting new people throughout the community.
One of her favorite ways to eat blackberries is on top of ice cream, and Pierce remains thankful for the opportunities she has been presented during her reign as Miss Blackberry.
Pierce lives in Clanton with her parents, Angela and William Mallison.