NASSAU, Bahamas -- Since arriving in Las Vegas ten days ago, Celeste Marshall has cemented her billing as a favourite for the title of Miss Universe 2012, thanks in no small part to the help of generous local and international sponsors who have outfitted her for the competition of a lifetime.

A $12,000 couture Eduardo de las Casas evening gown; two kaftans designed by celebrity favorite Camilla of Australia; a pair of newly released Fendi sunglasses; and a $5,000 smile are all part of the arsenal that Miss Universe Bahamas Celeste Marshall has taken to Las Vegas, Nevada in her quest to become the first Bahamian woman to become a finalist (and ultimately the winner) of the Miss Universe competition.

The statuesque beauty has been preparing for months for her moment in the spotlight, and she has received a lot of help along the way from a long list of sponsors. Topping the list is the Ashley Lauren Kerr group, consisting of designer Eduardo de las Casas, pageant coach Grace Fontecha, make-up artist/instructor Noel Garcia, and stylist Ashley Lauren.

The group's contribution to her preparations exceeded the $30,000 mark, and included two couture evening gowns; 2 weeks of private lessons with Guinness World Records recognized pageant coach Fontecha; make-up application and hair styling lessons; fashion tips; and a two week all-inclusive stay at a beach front home in Maine during her training. Kerr believes the investment was worth it.

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