When Potter’s Wax Museum in St. Augustine welcomed its newest figure, a yellow dress-clad “Taylor Swift” strumming a guitar, Museum Manager Lindsay Kozlowski knew she wanted to welcome her in style.
She worked with Dave Chatterton, general manager of Old Town Trolley Tours, to create a photo contest for the area’s most passionate Swifties. Fans were asked to share their best pose with the wax figure, showcasing their favorite era.
Chyanne Craft, 11, took the top prize with a photo of her and “Taylor” enthusiastically belting out what appears to be a very powerful tune, taken by her mom, Jessica Spencer.
“I really wanted to be funny,” said Chyanne. “When my mom told me I won, I was so excited and grateful because I didn't really think I would win.”
When asked what she would say to the real-life Taylor Swift, Craft said, “My message to Taylor Swift would be that you really motivated me in my life! I would be so overwhelmed with happiness if I saw her in real life. She is amazing, and I've been listening to her music for like nine years now. She really inspires me to not care about what people say and just be the person I want to be!”
Potter’s Wax Museum received entries from Taylor Swift fans all over Florida. Chyanne won a Taylor Swift-themed spa package for four from Poseidon Spa at the Casa Monica Resort & Spa, a professional photography session at Potter’s Wax Museum with photographer Ed Taylor, and a themed high tea experience at The Modern Rose.
“Chyanne’s photo stood out immediately,” said Kozlowski with a smile. “You could tell how much fun she was having, and her passion and excitement just shone through the photo.”
Penelope, the second-place winner, received a special VIP gift basket and annual passes to Potter’s Wax Museum.
Taylor Swift is Potter’s Wax Museum’s first new figure in two years. Her addition marks the creation of a new pop culture display, paying tribute to popular figures.
“We take pride in showcasing the people who have shaped our world,” said Dave Chatterton, general manager of Old Town Trolley Tours, which owns and manages Potter’s Wax Museum under its parent company, Historic Tours of America. “We’ve always focused on historical figures, but moving forward, we’re bringing in popular figures who are currently shaping the world. We do have a new figure on the horizon, but their identity is under wraps for now. But head to the museum in about a month or so, and you can see ... or smell … what we’re cooking.”
