Gina Mellish, crowned Miss New Jersey USA in 2020, didn’t have the typical pageant queen upbringing. In fact, she grew up as a self-described tomboy in Oceanport, and had no idea what the world of pageantry even looked like. Fast forward to today, and Mellish is not only a former titleholder but also an inspirational coach who has helped young women across the country achieve their pageant dreams.
In a candid interview, Mellish opened up about her unlikely journey to becoming Miss New Jersey and how she now works full-time as a coach, using her experiences to guide the next generation of pageant competitors.
From Tomboy to Beauty Queen
The spark for Mellish's pageant career came during her time at Red Bank Catholic High School. As a sophomore, she was inspired by her senior volleyball captain, Christina Thompson, who had just won Miss New Jersey Teen USA. “She was so kind, smart, and hardworking. I thought, ‘I want to be like her,’” Mellish recalls.
That admiration led Mellish to her first pageant, where she placed third runner-up. But instead of walking away, she dove deeper, and the following year, she won Miss New Jersey Teen USA. “That’s when my parents became pageant parents,” she laughs, recalling how they got fully involved in the experience.
Mellish competed in Miss Teen USA, made lifelong friends, and, after graduating from Marist College, decided to return to the pageant world. “I thought maybe it would take a few years to win Miss New Jersey USA,” she says. “But I ended up winning on my first try. And I wasn’t even old enough to have a martini to celebrate!"
The Road to Miss USA and Top 10 Glory
Mellish’s journey took an unexpected turn when the world shut down due to the pandemic in 2020. Crowned Miss New Jersey USA in November 2019, she was ready to compete in Miss USA that following year—but the world had other plans. As the pandemic forced a postponement of the competition, Mellish had to train in the comfort of her own home.
“I was juggling school, interning at Giorgio Armani, and preparing for Miss USA all at once,” she says. “But when we were sent home, it was a hard time for many, but it gave me the chance to focus.” That focus paid off, as Mellish placed in the top 10 at Miss USA in 2020, a feat she still feels proud of today.
Finding Purpose Beyond the Glitz
Mellish's time as Miss New Jersey USA was about more than just looking pretty in a crown. As she competed at Miss USA, she used her platform to raise awareness around healthy relationships, working closely with the organization One Love. “I had been in an abusive relationship when I was 16, and competing again gave me a chance to speak out and use my voice for something that mattered,” she shares.
Her message resonated deeply with others, as Mellish’s vulnerability and courage in sharing her story helped countless people navigate their own struggles. “I wanted to leave a legacy that wasn’t just about the crown and the glitz,” she notes. “It was about using my story to help others.”
A New Chapter: Coaching the Next Generation
After her reign, Mellish transitioned into coaching, and now she helps young women—both teens and adults—navigate their own pageant journeys. “My biggest job as a coach is to help girls find who they are,” she says. “I want them to feel beautiful, not just in the pageant world, but in their everyday lives.”
She works with women from ages 14 to 35, teaching them everything from interview prep to personal branding. “We talk about current events, styling, walking, and image consulting. But more than anything, I want them to leave with tools they can carry with them for the rest of their lives,” she explains.
Mellish has coached multiple pageant queens, including several Miss New Jersey Teen USA winners. “It’s incredible to think that my first national client won Miss Teen USA, and now I’ve had clients go on to win Miss Universe!” she says, looking back on her unexpected success as a coach.
But for Mellish, it’s not about the trophies. It’s about the people. “I’m just the catalyst between them and their dreams. My goal is to help women feel beautiful and empowered, no matter what stage they’re at in life.”
As Mellish reflects on her coaching career, she remains grateful for the opportunities pageantry has given her—and the chance to help others. “I’ve had some amazing moments, like coaching a Miss Teen USA and a Miss Universe,” she says. “But I’d love to have a Miss USA in my future. That’s the last piece of the puzzle for me.”
Above all, Mellish’s message for young girls and women who want to step into the pageant world is simple: take risks and have fun. “If I can do it, you can do it,” she shares with a smile. “Don’t be afraid to fail. You never know what can happen unless you try.”
Whether you’re a young girl dreaming of a crown or a woman looking for confidence and guidance, Gina Mellish is here to help you shine.
Follow her on Instagram @theginamellish or visit her website ginamellishconsulting.com for more inspiration.
Photo: Jessielyn Palumbo
Makeup: Angelica Alberti
Styling: Gina Mellish
“I want them to feel beautiful, not just in the pageant world, but in their everyday lives.” - Gina Mellish