Irish charm and American Beauty

I recently had the privilege of meeting and interviewing the New York Rose of Tralee, 22 year old Annemarie Lynch. Annemarie was visiting the local Mc Cullagh family in Omagh when I got to dig into why and how Annemarie got involved in the very popular competition.

Annemarie’s was born in New York as her mother is from the Bronx and her father is from County Cavan . She moved to Ireland at a young age and was raised in Lough Gowna County Cavan. After studying a degree in English and Philosophy she went onto study Fashion Design in Cavan Institute.  However Annemarie moved back to New York four years ago and has been living the dream ever since. Working for Tiffany & Co, interning at Orla Kiely Retail and also with Daniele Nachmani the Stylist, life has been pretty hectic for Annemarie. ‘’If you work hard you will achieve something, I am not naturally talented, I have to work hard to be successful” A humble approach by a naturally stunning and inspiring young lady who you can’t help but love. ‘’I have a half Cavan half New York accent’’ she laughs. I would also say she has the Irish charm and the American Beauty as she can talk for Ireland!

Having a keen interest in fashion, competing in the Rose of Tralee has allowed her the opportunity to meet some fantastic Irish designers. Jacqueline Quinn, Joan Ghali, Eileen Millinery to name but a few are all those who Annemarie is in awe of. Competing in the Rose of Tralee has allowed meetings like this to take place.

Annemaire goes on to tell me how she has “had the application form for the Rose of Tralee on my computer for four years.” It was always in the back of her mind to apply but she never got around to it. Until now. Approached at a Leukaemia charity event in New York and asked would I like to participate in the Rose of Tralee.

“What’s for you doesn’t go by you I always say, so I jumped at the chance.” This was the week before the heat and everything was happening so fast. Before I knew it they had called out my name. ‘It was so surreal; I love the competition and what it stands for”

“Celebrating women of Irish heritage who are passionate and independent”. That is exactly how Annemarie would describe the Rose of Tralee to those who merely believe that it is a beauty pageant.

Asking Annemarie how she would make herself stand out in the competition she states “it’s who you are as person and how your portray your personality is what makes you stand out.”  “There is no point in trying to be someone you are not, life is about enjoying yourself and that’s what I plan do to during my Rose of Tralee experience.”

Since interviewing Annemaire, the Portlaoise regional finals have been and gone and I am delighted to tell you that Annemarie has made it to the final in August. Good luck to Annemarie and all the roses participating!