2026 Queen of the Snows Candidates

Natalie Bellamy

Natalie is from St. Paul, MN. She enjoys creating art, such as oil painting, crocheting and collages. Natalie originally had a career in Retail Sales and Management for 12 years, but that all came to a halt when she got diagnosed with two congenital neurological conditions. Chiari (Key-are-ee) Malformation type 1, and low pressure hydrocephalus. After her first brain surgery, she had minor complications and had to have two more. Recovery went well for about 8 months until she had more complications which led to a 44 day hospitalization, two spinal cord surgeries and 7 more brain surgeries, ending with a cerebral shunt being placed. Afterwards, she made a full recovery.

Aspen Brenna

Sponsored By Omodt & Sons Masonry, Inc.

Aspen Brenna is a lifelong resident of South St. Paul. Growing up near the Capital City, she developed a deep appreciation for its history and community. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and History from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Currently, Aspen is a substitute teacher at an early childhood education center, where she primarily teaches three year olds. After spending six months in Montana pursuing her dream of living and working in a new state, specifically in their Capital. She’s excited to be home to Minnesota for the winter season. When she’s not working, you can often find Aspen at the Grand Casino Arena cheering on the Wild or the Frost. Otherwise, she’s likely at home baking, researching national parks, or relaxing with a cross-stitch project.

Shannon Hitchcock

Sponsored By Joe & Stan's Pub & Grill

Shannon Hitchcock is a vibrant, community-minded individual whose passion for people and adventure makes her a great representative for the Saint Paul Winter Carnival. A proud University of Minnesota alumna and fun fact few know, a former cheerleader for the Gopher Men’s Hockey Team. Shannon brings energy and positivity to everything she does. In her career, she helps others build their dream homes, ensuring the process is seamless and the result extraordinary. Family, friendship, and creating lasting memories are at the heart of her life. Known for her determination, Shannon’s greatest achievement is proving she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. Though she loves to travel, she still hates to pack for her next trip!

Christine Hanley

Sponsored By Northern Prairie Financial

With 18 years of honorable service in the U.S. Navy, Christine brings strength, dedication, and heart to everything she does. A proud 2024 graduate of Northwestern Health Sciences University and 2015 alumna of Winona State, she now serves her community as a passionate chiropractor. Beyond her career, she finds joy in life’s simple moments—dancing in her kitchen, paddle boarding, sailing, and baking sweet treats. Her greatest adventure is exploring the outdoors and hiking with her son, Landon. Whether on the water or in the woods, she lives each day with purpose, compassion, and a zest for life.

Audrey Lee

Sponsored By Peak Spray Foam

Audrey Lee, of Maple Lake, will graduate this December from the University of Minnesota Rochester with a degree in Health Sciences on the pre-med track. She works as a caregiver at the Annandale Care Center and has earned a place on the Chancellor’s List every semester of college. Audrey serves as a volunteer board member with the Maple Lake Royalty Program and was honored to hold the title of Miss Maple Lake 2022–2023. She also volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House. Audrey has six siblings and loves spending time with her family. Outside of academics and service, she enjoys reading novels—her childhood favorite series was Harry Potter—and spending time on the lake in every season. She is proud to represent her community and hopes to pursue a career in women’s health and maternal care.

Megan Madson

Coming from a long line of hockey players, Megan has always loved winter. As soon as the temperature drops, you’ll likely find her in the stands at a Minnesota Gopher or Wild game. As a school counselor and aspiring principal, Megan is committed to ensuring that all students have equitable access to their education, as well as collaborating with school staff to maximize student success. In her spare time, she is working on writing her doctoral dissertation, but seeks out time with friends at one of the Twin Cities’ museums or epic live music venues. Megan also enjoys time with her family at the lake, playing cards, and competing in the annual corn hole tournament. As a Candidate, Megan is most excited to continue the tradition of spreading winter cheer!

Nicole Newman

Sponsored By Fury Motors

Nicole Fae Newman is a community-minded creative, mentor, and proud mom of two. With over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry, she’s a licensed cosmetologist, educator, and founder of The Annex—a nonprofit that provides mentorship and education for women in the beauty field. Nicole is also the author of She Owns It, a book that empowers women to build confidence and step into leadership. She serves on the board of ERAA Youth Tennis, coordinates local volunteer events, and loves planning themed parties and family adventures with her husband, Bob, and children, Vincent and Eris. Known for her signature copper-red hair and joyful energy, Nicole believes in making everyday moments meaningful and helping others feel seen and celebrated.

Katelyn Bergstrom

Katelyn was born and raised in Northeast Minneapolis. After graduating St. Anthony Village High School, she attended the University of Minnesota-Morris, where she obtained her Bachelor's degree in Anthropology and Biology. She then went on to achieve her Master's from Bemidji State University in Environmental Studies, where she studied Black-Backed and American three toed woodpeckers in northern Minnesota. Katelyn has always had a love for the outdoors in her personal life some of her favorite hobbies are kayaking, skiing, birding, and spending time with friends and family. She would love to spend everyday of her life simply being outside watching birds and wildlife. Katelyn absolutely loves trying new things, going out on fun adventures, and meeting new people everywhere she goes.

Anna Day

Sponsored By Bungalow Inn of Lakeland

Walt Disney once said, “all our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” That dream has brought her here today, ready to share her joy, creativity, and love for Winter Carnival with her community. Anna’s love of books has her dreaming of a personal library, like Belle, with her current 1300 title collection. Her Winter Carnival dream began as a teen when meeting Aurora for the first time, sparking her love for the celebration’s magic and tradition. Anna has graduated top of her class from Nova Academy of Cosmetology as a licensed nail technician. Additionally, Anna enjoys baking in her free time, which began in the kitchen with her Great Grammy Alice. They baked banana bread and joined the Great Cookie Bake Off, a 50+ year tradition.

Erin Gustafson

Sponsored By Bernie Swafford at Edina Realty

Erin is a marketing and strategy professional with a BA from the University of St. Thomas, an MBA from the University of Minnesota, and a heartfelt commitment to community. She frequently volunteers her knowledge and time to help nonprofits increase their impact and thrive. Living in Woodbury with her husband, she enjoys hosting game nights with friends, supporting Minnesota’s vibrant arts community, knitting handmade gifts, and hunting for the Twin Cities’ best bookstore. She is dedicated to lifelong learning and building authentic connections. Erin believes that meaningful relationships and genuine connection are at the heart of effective leadership, lasting community change, and building a happy life.

Stacy Johnson

Sponsored By Party Time Liquor

Stacy once fulfilled a childhood dream by becoming a Walt Disney World Cast Member, an experience that deepened her love for creating magic and helping others. She spent nearly a decade supporting adults with disabilities, developing strong skills in empathy, communication, and providing care with dignity. Over the past ten years, Stacy has focused on raising her family. She is a proud mother of three, a T-Ball assistant coach, and passionate gardener who finds peace in landscaping. Stacy planned and executed her twenty year high school reunion, with over two-hundred attendees. She enjoys taking long family bike rides, exploring new parks, and planning road trip adventures. Much like her garden, Stacy finds joy in helping others grow and thrive.

Natalka MacDonald

Sponsored By Quality Insurance Service

Natalka MacDonald is known for her ability to bring people together and uplift those around her with her infectious energy. With decades of experience leading teams, organizing community events, and volunteering, she radiates warmth and positivity and excels at making others feel valued—whether mentoring, planning, or simply offering encouragement. Her journey as a breast cancer survivor has deepened her resilience and has inspired others with her courage. She embodies kindness, strength, and a vibrant community spirit. A proud mom, wife, and self-described foodie, Natalka enjoys international travel, cherishes her Ukrainian heritage, and loves lake life living west of Faribault with her husband, Jeff.

Stacy Martin

Allison Witzmann

Sponsored By Bumbling Fools Mead

Allison Witzmann is a Forest Lake native and is a graduate from the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, GA. Allison’s expertise is in 2D Prop design, Environment design and Story Art. Known as the "Jack of all trades" She has experience in almost every art field, Not only is she a professional visual development artist, but also a Graphic designer, muralist, painter and set designer. She has received various awards in art and has been accredited for numerous Projects in the film and Animation world. Her goal is to keep creating!