Meet the Woman Behind Miss Aura USA and Miss Planet USA: Vanessa Carter of Pereira Productions

This October, two exciting national pageants, Miss Aura USA and Miss Planet USA, are coming to Florida, produced by the dynamic and passionate Vanessa Carter of Pereira Productions. With nearly a decade of experience in pageantry, Vanessa brings fresh energy, unmatched dedication, and a true love for helping women grow into their full potential.

We caught up with Vanessa to learn more about her journey in pageantry and what contestants can expect at these incredible new national events.

A Passion Born in French Class

Vanessa’s entry into the world of pageantry wasn’t exactly planned, but it was meant to be. She shared, “Honestly it's the most random story. I got asked by someone in French class during sophomore year if I watched pageants (since my Instagram at that time was all about pageantry). Back then I just enjoyed watching them, then after that conversation it turned into a love of coaching which turned into a love of directing.”

That classmate? None other than Mary Malloy, future Miss Rhode Island Teen USA 2015 and Miss Rhode Island USA 2023.

A Director with a Deep Pageant Background

Since 2016, Vanessa has been directing at the state and regional levels for a variety of well-respected systems including:

• Miss US International

• North America Beauty Pageants

• Miss Collegiate America

• Miss Volunteer America

Now, with Miss Aura USA and Miss Planet USA, Vanessa is stepping into the national spotlight as the lead national director for both competitions. Backed by years of experience, she’s excited to bring her signature energy and vision to two events that will welcome contestants from across the country.

What to Expect at Nationals

Vanessa promises that the national competitions this October will be three unforgettable days of glitz and glamour. She adds, “I can't give away much right now, but it's going to be an event you won't want to miss! And of course, there is nothing better than a pageant in the Florida sun!”

Why She Loves Pageants

“For me, it's all about seeing potential and molding someone to be the best they can be,” Vanessa says. “It doesn't matter how many pageants you've done or titles you've won, there is always something you can improve on. I like to think that I have an eye to point out small changes that make a delegate’s performance go from good to amazing.”

About Miss Aura USA

Miss Aura USA 2025 will take place October 17 to 19, 2025. The winner will go on to represent the United States at Miss Aura International 2026, currently scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye.

Qualifications

• Age: 18 to 30 (as of May 1, 2026)

• Height: 5'6" or taller (barefoot)

• Status: Must be single, born female, and have a valid U.S. passport. Contestants may have children but must not be currently pregnant.

Areas of Competition

• Private Interview (20%)A five-minute panel interview where contestants share their goals, passions, and personality.

• Swimsuit (40%)Judged on confidence, charisma, and commitment to a healthy lifestyle, not size or shape.

• Evening Gown (40%)Focuses on poise, personality, and stage presence more than the gown itself.

About Miss Planet USA

Miss Planet USA 2025 also takes place October 17 to 19. The titleholder will represent the USA at Miss Planet International 2026, scheduled to be held in Cambodia.

Qualifications

• Age: 18 to 36 (as of November 1, 2026)

• Height: No height requirement

• Status: Open to single, married, divorced, or widowed women. Must be born female and hold a valid U.S. passport. Contestants may have children but must not be pregnant at the time of competition.

Areas of Competition

• Private Interview (45%)Judges will assess each contestant’s ability to articulate her vision and personality.

• Swimsuit (20%)A celebration of wellness, self-care, and confidence.

• Evening Gown (35%)Emphasis on poise, elegance, and confidence on stage.

How to Apply

Interested in competing? Send a message to any of the three Pereira Productions Instagram accounts (@PereiraProductionsLLC, @MissAuraUSA, @MissPlanetInternationalUSA) with your email address to receive a contestant handbook. The official website will launch in late August.