07/14/2025
Local Student Wins First Place at National Beta Convention for Cake Decorating
Poplar Springs standout LillieAnn Miller has brought home a sweet victory—literally. The talented 13-year-old recently won first place in Cake Decorating at the National Beta Convention, held last month in Orlando, Florida. Competing against 28 other students from across the United States, LillieAnn’s win marks not only a personal achievement, but also a proud moment for her school and community.
LillieAnn, daughter of Chad and Carol Miller, just completed 8th grade and will enter 9th grade this fall. This was her final year as a Junior Beta member, and she went out with a bang—taking top honors in a category that was introduced at Nationals for the very first time this year.“This was the very first year that they had the Onsite Cake Decorating Category,” she explained. “You had to decorate foam cake dummies using only frosting and basic cake decorating tools—no stencils, no fondant. We had just 60 minutes to complete the design.”
While the competition was new, LillieAnn was no stranger to the national stage. She’s been a devoted member of the National Beta Club for five years, beginning in 4th grade. Over that time, she’s competed in a range of categories including Black and White Photography, Jewelry, Digital Design, Mixed Media, Woodworking, and Apparel Design—earning numerous accolades along the way.
Her passion for cake decorating stems from family roots. “I’ve always enjoyed baking and helping my Nana decorate cookies and cakes,” she shared. “Every time I visit my Nana, Janet Tinsley, in Samson, Alabama, we bake and decorate together. She’s taught me so much. I also used to help my Aunt Amy Miller around the holidays with candy and cake making.”
For this competition, preparation was key. LillieAnn began by sketching out her cake design, then practiced repeatedly—first for the state-level event (where she also placed first), and again leading up to Nationals. Her dedication paid off in the best way possible. “When I found out I won first place, I was excited and proud of my accomplishment,” she said. “Everyone there was so talented, so it really meant a lot.”
LillieAnn’s history with the National Beta Club has been marked by steady success. In 2021, at her first Elementary National Convention in Orlando, she didn’t place but was inspired by the experience. In 2022, she returned to Nationals in Nashville and placed Champion in Apparel Design as well as 5th place in Photography. In 2023, as a Junior Beta, she earned 5th place in Photography and 10th in Apparel in Louisville. Last year in Savannah, she competed in Photography but didn’t place, though she says the experience was still rewarding.
Next year, LillieAnn will enter the Senior Beta division—and yes, she fully intends to compete again. “I’ve already started planning for next year,” she said with enthusiasm.
When asked what advice she’d give to younger Beta students, she said, “Always believe in yourself and always strive to do your best, whether you’re competing in academics, visual arts, performing arts, or a group event. Most importantly—whether you place or not—always remember that you are more than an award.”She also shared her personal motto as a Beta member: “To be a successful Beta, you must always lead by serving others.”
LillieAnn Miller’s story is one of talent, determination, and heart. Her achievements are impressive, but her attitude and humble spirit may be the most inspiring part of all. Graceville will certainly be cheering her on as she continues her journey in Senior Beta—and likely beyond.
Congratulations, LillieAnn, on your well-deserved win!
