Confidence Secrets from Mrs. International 2024 - Meagan Elieff
Meagan Elieff, Mrs. International 2024
When it comes to making a powerful first impression, commanding the stage, and building confidence in all aspects of life, few people exemplify these qualities as well as Meagan Elieff. As Mrs. International 2024 and the visionary CEO & Co-Founder of Modern Day Wife, Meagan has built a global community dedicated to empowering ambitious women. Her expertise in networking, self-presentation, and confidence-building has made her a sought-after leader in both professional and social settings.
In our conversation, Meagan shared her personal journey, insights on self-presentation, and practical tips for developing a confident presence - whether in the boardroom, at networking events, or on stage.
Watch the full interview on YouTube, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Discover how we helped Meagan refine her presence and confidence for the Pageant — watch her transformation here
The Power of First Impressions
Meagan believes that the foundation of confidence begins with feeling put together. “It’s not about spending a huge amount on an outfit,” she says. “It’s about knowing what you’re going to wear, trying it on in advance, and making sure you feel great in it. First impressions are everything.” She highlights that people naturally notice well-presented individuals, which can spark curiosity and open doors for meaningful conversations.
Beyond appearance, Meagan emphasizes the importance of a warm and engaging attitude. “I always have a smile, I’m in a good mood, and I like to make others feel comfortable. The goal at any event is to connect with others, and that starts with making yourself approachable.”
Body Language and Presence
Having worked on her stage presence extensively, Meagan understands the impact of posture and body language. “Confidence isn’t just something you have—it’s something you train,” she says. She credits coaching sessions, including work on posture and non-verbal communication, as essential in refining her presence. “Now, it’s ingrained. I sit at the edge of my chair, keep my shoulders back, and feel more confident because of it.”
She notes that stage presence is like a muscle that can be developed through practice. “When you train yourself to stand, walk, and move with purpose, it becomes second nature. The more you do it, the more natural it feels.”
Kate Ziuz and Meagan Elieff, Modern Day Wife Soiree En Blanc, June 2024, Los Angeles
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Growing into Confidence
While Meagan now speaks effortlessly at events, this wasn’t always the case. “Ten years ago, I would be so nervous before speaking in public. I would stick to a script, avoid engaging with the audience, and not trust that my words were enough.” Over time, through practice and personal development courses, she learned to embrace her voice.
“I’ve invested thousands in personal development, and I truly believe that if public speaking, networking, or self-presentation is important to you, it’s worth the investment. Confidence isn’t just for people on stage—it’s for anyone who wants to advance in their career, negotiate better opportunities, or simply feel more comfortable in their own skin.”
Confidence Beyond the Stage
One of the biggest misconceptions about confidence training, according to Meagan, is that it’s only for public figures. “In reality, most people who invest in these skills aren’t public speakers or models—they’re professionals who need to be seen and heard in their careers. Whether it’s negotiating a raise, leading a team, or presenting to clients, the ability to exude confidence can change everything.”
She shares how her own training made an impact not just on stage, but in everyday situations. “After working on my posture and presence, I felt better in all areas of life—whether walking down the street, posing for a photo, or simply carrying myself with more confidence.”
Takeaways: How to Elevate Your Presence
(Left to right) Rachel Marks, winner of the Mrs. International 2023 pageant, crowned Meagan Elieff as her husband, Corrie Elieff, joined her on-stage.Goodwin Photography
Curate Your Look with Intention – Plan your outfits in advance to feel your best.
Master Body Language – Good posture, purposeful movement, and open gestures make a difference.
Practice, Practice, Practice – Confidence is a skill that improves with time and effort.
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone – Attend networking events, initiate conversations, and push past initial discomfort.
Invest in Yourself – Whether through coaching, courses, or mentorship, personal growth pays off.
Meagan’s story is a testament to the fact that confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. By refining your self-presentation, embracing body language, and continuously stepping into new challenges, you can unlock new levels of success and opportunity in any area of life.
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Kate Ziuz wearing My Generation, walking on a fashion show by Modern Day Wife in San Diego, September 2023. Photo by Jamie Dickerson
