Lush Hair & Co

A spot in the Top 11 could be just a vote away.

The People's Choice winner automatically advances to the Top 11 at the Miss Illinois Finals, and many past titleholders have used People's Choice as their path to the crown.

These contestants are currently among those in contention for the 2026 Miss Illinois People's Choice Award, listed in random order.

Vote through June 12 at linktr.ee/MissIllinoisOrg

The competition is heating up!

These contestants are currently among those in contention for the 2026 Miss Illinois' Teen People's Choice Award. With voting underway and support pouring in from across the state, every vote can make a difference.

Voting remains open through June 11. Visit linktr.ee/MissIllinoisOrg to support your favorite contestant.

This Memorial Day, Team Capital City honors the heroes who gave everything for our country. We remember their sacrifice and hold their families close in our hearts today and always. 🇺🇸❤️

It is with the heaviest hearts that we share the passing of our beautiful stylist and dear friend, Rene Shelton.

Rene was so much more than a talented stylist—she was family to all of us. And to her clients, you were never just another appointment or a head of hair… you were her people, her circle, her extended family. She loved each of you deeply, and it showed in every conversation, every laugh, and every moment in her chair.

Rene had a special gift not only behind the chair, but in the lives she touched beyond it. From creating unforgettable hair and makeup moments for weddings, to pouring her heart into the pageant world—she lit up when her girls walked through our doors. We will forever miss watching her coach them as they practiced their walks through the salon and sat for mock interviews, building confidence the way only she could.

She greeted every client with a warm smile and always sent them out with a hug… a simple gesture that meant so much, and one we will never forget.

Our salon will not be the same without her presence, her laughter, and her light. But her spirit lives on in the love she gave so freely and the impact she made on all of us.

To Rene’s clients—please know you will always have a home here with us. It would be our honor to continue your beauty journey, and we will do our very best to carry on her legacy and fill her shoes with the same care and heart she gave to each of you.

We love you, Rene. You will be missed beyond words, and remembered in every life you touched. 🤍