Monte Durham, owner of Salon Monte in historic Old Town Alexandria, is widely recognized as the fashion director on the TLC hit show Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta. Additionally, he has hosted the TLC Say Yes to The Prom initiative for the past 15 years, traveling across the country to make prom accessible for students, including Miss DC contestants, with mentorship, dresses, tuxes, and styling that provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A native of a small town in West Virginia, Monte describes his rise from a one-room schoolhouse to the fashion industry as an unlikely journey. Before making a name for himself in bridal, he worked in fashion merchandising and hair styling, establishing himself as a bridal image consultant based in Washington, DC. His work has been featured in The Washingtonian, Gladys, Martha Stewart Living, Brides Magazine, and several other publications. Monte's candid fashion commentary and sense of humor have made him a favorite and regular guest on networks like Fox and CNN.
Currently, Monte is focused on building the M.O.N.T.E brand, launching a line of wedding gowns and a hair care collection consisting of five essential products that simplify styling, enabling everyone to achieve salon-quality results at home or while traveling.
He resides in Alexandria, Virginia, where he dedicates his free time to volunteering with organizations such as Hospice, The Welsh Terrier Care Rescues, the USO, and The First Ladies Museum.
You can follow Monte on Instagram at TheRealMonteDurham.
Anna Kelly is a political communicator, a devoted rescue dog 'mom,' and a fourth-generation DC resident. With 20 years of experience in the Miss America Opportunity, Anna has competed as a Miss DC contestant, achieving the title of first runner-up in 2024. The skills she acquired through the program have been essential to her professional growth, particularly in her current position as Deputy Press Secretary at the White House. Previously, she served as the Communications Director for a Wisconsin gubernatorial campaign, working with Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), and played a significant role in the Republican Party of Wisconsin. Anna holds a Master of Professional Studies in Political Management from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Auburn University, further showcasing her dedication to public service and political communication.