Take 5 with Christina Fulford

This month, Christina Fulford – mom to four, business owner, and postpartum health advocate – goes for the crown. Fulford, who is the current Mrs. Wilmington America, competes for the state title and the chance to represent North Carolina in the Mrs. America pageant in Las Vegas in August. The UNCW international business alum started Fulford Construction in 2021, specializing in custom homes, new construction, and remodels for both commercial and residential projects.

How and when did you first get involved with pageant competitions? “I was introduced (to) this particular pageant system by my friend, but I have been interested in participating in a pageant and representing my state ever since I was nominated for homecoming queen in high school. Having a successful business, a loving family, and a ton of support, now is just the perfect time to be able to live this dream in my life.”

What are some things you’ve personally taken away from the experiences? “I have gained self-worth, confidence, so much personal growth, and lifelong friendships.”

How did you get to work in the construction field? “My husband, Justin, is the owner of Fulford Heating & Cooling, so we already have a lot of relationships with other subcontractors and builders. I worked with him a little bit in the industry, and we actually built our first house together in 2012 so I already had an understanding of what this industry requires. After my fourth baby, I decided to take the exam to become a licensed general contractor so that I can empower women to have confidence in making decisions for their home.”

Why is representing the 4th Trimester Mission group important to you? “I personally experience postpartum depression, and I understand how dark and lonely that can feel. It is my mission to help 120 women over this next year and eventually make 4th Trimester Mission a nationwide brand so that we can provide true healing and support, like mental health counseling, to new moms so that they can be better and feel better during motherhood.”

Confidence is important to you at work and on stage – what are your tips for others for projecting confidence in what they do as well? “Be confident in who you are! I am a firm believer that we are each created to be unique and exactly who we should be. An action step to increase confidence is to do something that you have always wanted to do, even if it feels a little scary. Reach for a big goal and work hard until you achieve it!”

To view more of photographer Terah Hoobler’s work, go to terahhoobler.com.

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