Florida’s Official Preliminary to Mrs. International®
April 26 | Design District Miami | Live Event | 12:00–3:00 PM
Tabatha DeGrave
Mrs. Fort Lauderdale Int'l 2026
Tabatha DeGrave is an entrepreneur, author, advocate, and proud mother of five whose life and purpose have been deeply shaped by motherhood and caregiving. While she leads multiple businesses and community initiatives, her greatest transformation began after her daughter Tori was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), a rare genetic condition that brought uncertainty and no clear path forward. What started as a moment of fear became a defining shift, teaching Tabatha that resilience is not something you rise to occasionally, but something you live every day.
Determined to turn her experience into impact, Tabatha authored Tori’s Story and This Wasn’t the Plan, offering an honest and hopeful perspective for families navigating complex medical journeys. She actively supports the TSC Alliance, advocating for awareness, research, and stronger support systems for caregiving families. As Mrs. Florida International, Tabatha is committed to building community and ensuring that no parent facing a life-changing diagnosis has to walk that journey alone.
1. What is your favorite spot or "happy place" in the city you're representing and why?
My favorite spot is our local boat club, Lauderdale Small Boat Club. It feels like a home away from home. The people there are genuine, welcoming, and deeply connected to one another. It’s a place where friendships are built effortlessly, laughter is shared freely, and time slows down. On the water, surrounded by that sense of community, I feel fully present and at peace.
2. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Keep going and trust your gut. Your instincts are stronger than you realize and will guide you to the right path, even when things feel uncertain. You don’t need permission to believe in yourself. Every challenge is shaping you into who you are meant to become. Listen inward, stay resilient, and don’t be afraid to choose yourself along the way.
3. What is a small habit or ritual that brings you joy each day?
My favorite daily ritual is my goodnight routine with my youngest. I tell her I love her, she tells me she loves me more, and I always reply that I love her most. It’s a simple moment, but it grounds me. No matter how full the day is, that exchange reminds me of what truly matters.
4. If you could spend one day with any inspiring woman—past or present—who would it be and what would you ask her?
I would choose Brené Brown. Her work on vulnerability, courage, and wholehearted living has reshaped how so many women view strength. I would ask her how we can teach the next generation, especially mothers and daughters, that vulnerability is not a weakness but a powerful foundation for leadership, resilience, and authentic connection.
5. What is a moment in your life that made you feel truly confident or empowered?
One of my most empowering moments was reclaiming my health. As a mom, I put myself last for years, slowly losing myself along the way. When I realized I was at my heaviest, I decided to take control. Through consistency and self-respect, I lost 50 pounds—but more importantly, I rediscovered my strength, confidence, and sense of self.
6. What’s the most Florida thing you’ve ever done?
The most Florida thing I do regularly is embrace boat life with my family. Taking my kids out on the water—fishing, swimming in the ocean, tying up with other boats, and making memories—captures everything I love about Florida. It’s freedom, sunshine, community, and quality time all wrapped into one unforgettable experience.