If you're watching this season of The Bachelor, I’m sure that you are well aware that there was no shortage of drama. The ladies competing for Arie Luyendyk’s heart stopped at nothing to spend time with him...and contestant Annaliese Puccini was in the midst of it all. You may remember Puccini as the woman who dressed up as The Kissing Bandit when she stepped out of the limo for the first time, a hilarious take on Luyendyk’s nickname from when he himself was a contestant. Puccini and Luyendyk connected on the first night but unfortunately, the relationship didn’t go the distance. I was lucky enough to have been able to interview Puccini to get the scoop on this season. Check out our interview below to hear her spill the biggest surprise she encountered on her first night in the Bachelor mansion, the lessons she’s learned, and most importantly, whether or not you will be seeing her on Bachelor in Paradise.

What was your mindset was like coming into The Bachelor? Why did you decide to join the show?

I’ve had a handful of serious relationships but when those ended, I had to go back to square one and start dating again. I tried lots of different ways to meet guys: dating apps, meet-ups, through friends, classes...you name it. So why not on The Bachelor? Arie seemed to have many qualities I was looking for. On that first night in the mansion, I really thought that there was a little spark between us. But when we actually started to know each other, the chemistry wasn’t there. That’s not something you can force.

What surprised you the most during that first night in the Bachelor house?

I was in a total haze that first night--it feels like a dream looking back on it now. The house was magical! My conversation with Arie that first night also was one of the best conversations we had. But the thing that surprised me the most was that I lasted in my four-inch heels all night!

How did you decide what dress you were going to wear to step out of the limo?

I had two dresses that I was debating between. One option was a gorgeous, classic St. John gown in a chocolate brown color. The other option that I decided to go with was a teal gown with a cutout shoulder by A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz, mostly because I love the color and thought it would be the most unique and comfortable to wear all night. It’s an uncomfortable new environment so anything you can do to make it more comfortable is a plus!

Who were your besties in the mansion?

I got along with just about everyone in the house, but my main girls were Kendall, Jacqueline, Chelsea, Bibianna, Jenna, Lauren B, Seinne, and Bekah! The girls were so amazing this season: smart, funny, intelligent, gorgeous, and just super well rounded.

What’s the biggest lesson you learned as a contestant?

I definitely learned a lot about myself. I tend to bottle things up and am not usually a super emotional person, but as we all saw, I had a couple of breakdowns on the show. There were so many stressful things going on, and when I broke down, it was hard for me to pick myself back up. Since the show, I started seeing a therapist and am learning how to cope with things as they come up and not just push down my feelings. It’s a much healthier way to process things and I think self-help is a very important thing that we all need from time to time.

How would you describe your personal style?

Day to day, I am mostly very casual. My go-to look is jeans, a loose t-shirt, and converse or workout clothes. Although I also love dressing up so when I have opportunities to dress up, I definitely embrace it. I would say I’m a bit conservative when it comes to the way I dress, though. I don’t wear too many plunging necklines or dresses that are too tight or short. But I still like to play with pattern and texture and color! My favorite designers right now would be Reformation and For Love and Lemons. I love how feminine their designs are!

What’s your number one beauty tip?

I try to oil pull most mornings. I put a teaspoon of coconut oil (virgin/cold pressed) in my mouth first thing when I wake up while I’m making my bed, getting dressed, and cooking breakfast (so about 15 to 20 minutes) and then spit it out in the trash. It has a lot of benefits including naturally whitening your teeth!

Would you ever consider going on Bachelor in Paradise?

Yes, definitely! I’m looking for love and there have been quite a few relationships that have come out of Paradise! I want what Carly and Evan or Jade and Tanner have. I want to get married and have babies! I haven’t had much luck with dating sites or meeting people out, so I am always looking for opportunities to be introduced to new people. You never know who or what could lead you to your person...and Paradise may just be the place for me to find love!

Follow Annaliese on Social Media:

Instagram: @annaliesep