Mrs. New Jersey International®

Karlee Smart

1.Tell us a funny story about a date night out with your husband.
Change truly does start with me! As a combat veteran’s spouse raising two children, I felt compelled to help families like my own, so I started Silent Patriots to be that change. Silent Patriots connects military and veteran families to organizations that provide financial assistance and holistic support. My mission is to lift up our Silent Patriots worldwide, inspiring others to serve these patriots whose families have sacrificed so much to serve all of us!

2.What are the (2) most important things in your kitchen and why?
My everything! Not only is my husband an American Hero, he is my personal hero. Tyler is the most kind and caring man I know; he loves his family with all his heart. Over the 26 years we’ve been blessed to be best friends, he never ceases to make me laugh — through good times and the bad — and always puts a smile on my face. Plus, he is quite the handyman and can fix anything!

3.What do people assume about you that isn’t true?
My favorite childhood memory is boating with my family. Whether we would drop anchor and swim or water-ski in the inlet, I always loved the sights, sounds, and smells of the water - and still do to this day! I always enjoyed laying in the bow of the boat with my eyes closed, being lulled to sleep from the motion of the waves, the breeze on my skin, and the sounds of the engine humming.

4.Tell us a time you demonstrated leadership skills.
Caring, and fun-loving! I would do anything for anyone and always lent a hand to those in need. I made it my mission to always include others, whether at the lunch table or on the practice field. I was always smiling and laughing with my friends, especially when we played silly jokes on each other. I am proud to say both words are still how my friends and family would describe me today!

5.If you had no fear, what would you try?
As a person that enjoys experiences much more than material items, I would buy Tyler a lakeside cabin as a retreat for him to rest and relax. He is the hardest-working man I know, and truly deserves a reward for all his hard work and dedication to taking care of our family. Nothing would bring me more joy than to see him fishing at dawn, hiking with our children, and enjoying fresh mountain air!