Written by Gia Miller and Kayla Schmidt
Longtime Westchester resident and founder of Very Lovely Soles, Vanessa is a returning judge who is a strong advocate for supporting small businesses. As an entrepreneur herself, she brings both experience and empathy, allowing her to connect with and understand the businesses owners on a meaningful level.
Why did you choose to return as a judge?
I chose to return because I thought the group we had was pretty well rounded. I thought it was a great group of judges, so it made sense to be part of it again. And it was really fun.
What stood out to you during the judging process this year?
This year I think people were more vocal, not that we weren’t last year, but we were all familiar with each other, so we felt safe really giving our opinions. I felt like everyone was really confident, which was super nice. And we all felt like this was a safe group of judges, so if we disagreed with something, everyone was really open to it. I think that was the major difference this year.
What was your philosophy for this year?
This past year, I’ve really been trying to support local businesses. I even have an Instagram account for that. So I based my judging on my own personal experiences with these places.
Who was the most opinionated judge?
I think I’m going to have to say myself.
Did you burn your notes after judging?
Burn, no. But I did rip them. And I threw them in the trash.
If you could sum up the experience in one word or phrase, what would it be?
I know this is lame, but it was fun. It was actually fun. I really enjoyed the process.
You’re going on the judge circuit. What type of contest would you rather judge?
Ugliest ugly sweater or a preschool talent show?
Preschool talent show. It’s probably the cutest thing you’ll ever see.
Food truck throwdown or best knitted sweater for a dog?
Food truck throwdown. Who doesn’t love food?
Best creative cocktail or most exquisite hula dance?
Cocktail. I’m a cocktail connoisseur. I have several friends who used to be cocktail waitresses at high-end restaurants in the city, so they were always making craft cocktails, and I have a craft cocktail book, so I always make cocktails at home and know what makes a good cocktail.
Most creative excuse for being late or best secret handshake?
Handshake. I don’t need to lie about being late; I’m just upfront.
Most dramatic eye roll or worst parallel parking attempt?
Eye roll. I am the queen of it, and I’ll do it right to their face.
Best dance to “The Wheels on the Bus” or most stunning painting of a walrus?
Best dance to “Wheels on the Bus,” hands down. Don’t get me wrong, walruses are great, but you have to appreciate a good dance.
This article was published in the January/February 2026 edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.
To view all 2026 Connect to the Best winners, click here.
Gia Miller is an award-winning journalist and the editor-in-chief/co-publisher of Connect to Northern Westchester. She has a magazine journalism degree (yes, that's a real thing) from the University of Georgia and has written for countless national publications, ranging from SELF to The Washington Post. Gia desperately wishes schools still taught grammar. Also, she wants everyone to know they can delete the word "that" from about 90% of their sentences, and there's no such thing as "first annual." When she's not running her media empire, Gia enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, laughing at her crazy dog and listening to a good podcast. She thanks multiple alarms, fermented grapes and her amazing husband for helping her get through each day. Her love languages are food and humor.
Kayla Schmidt
Kayla Schmidt is a sophomore at Horace Greeley High School. She is part of the newspaper and the SADD club, and she is also the co-manager of the track team. In her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and dogs, along with reading (preferably on the beach).
