ILLINOIS — In a moment filled with family pride and pageantry, Alaina Ford, 19, of Franklin was crowned the 2025 Miss Western Illinois Fair queen on June 18 — taking over the crown from none other than her sister, Kaylee Ford, the reigning 2024 queen.
The crowning marked a unique passing of the torch in front of a packed audience at the fair, continuing a tradition that stretches back years in the Ford household.
A Sisterly Moment That Turned Into History
“I was so shocked and it was an unforgettable experience,” Alaina said. “We got to do it together.”
Kaylee, who had no idea who would be chosen, said she was thrilled when her younger sister’s name was called. “This is her time to shine, so I am ready to step back and support her,” she said with pride.
The emotional moment included a small but sweet scene that’s already gone viral among family and friends — Kaylee hurried to wipe lipstick off Alaina’s teeth moments before the crown was placed on her head.
Not Their First Crowning Together
This wasn’t the first time Kaylee had crowned her sister. In 2022, she handed Alaina the title of Miss Franklin, just a year after she herself held that honor.
The Ford sisters’ pageant résumés are rich with titles. Kaylee has held multiple crowns, including:
-
Miss Illinois Festival Queen (2023)
-
Junior Miss Morgan County (2016)
-
Junior Miss Franklin (2015)
-
Little Miss Franklin (2008)
-
And first runner-up in the 2023 Miss Morgan County pageant
That legacy gave Alaina both inspiration and guidance.
“I told her last year that if she won, I’d go for it the next year,” Alaina said. And she did — with her sister by her side every step of the way.
Shared Dresses, Shared Dreams
Beyond advice, the two sisters are now sharing something else — dresses and wardrobe. With a history of competitions behind them, the family has built up quite the collection.
“We’ve definitely accumulated a lot of stuff, that’s for sure,” Kaylee joked.
Alaina added, “I’m getting all the outfits, the knowledge, and the wisdom. We’re already planning my whole wardrobe.”
Pageant Wisdom and Lasting Support
As Alaina enters her reign, she’s doing it with the quiet confidence that comes from watching — and learning from — her sister.
“Kaylee was so full of advice, but when it was time for me to step up, she let me have my day,” Alaina said.
Even after the crown exchange, the support hasn’t ended. “She did my hair all fair week, helped me with advice,” Alaina said. “She’s already continuing her duties. Now our roles are reversed.”
Have you ever followed in a sibling’s footsteps — or helped someone take their first big step? Share your story at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
