Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

Being a cosplayer is lots of fun! It's a great way to express yourself and explore your creative side. I'm very passionate about creating art, so when I discovered cosplay I was so excited to get started! Cosplay is also a great way to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people. I'm normally really shy and quiet, but when I'm in cosplay surrounded by other cosplayers, I start to come out of my shell!

What are your next goals?

My next goals are to hopefully improve on my costuming skills along the way, and help those along who may need some guidance.

Cosplay Characters

So far I have cosplayed as Gir from Invader Zim, Kasane Teto and I am currently finishing up my cosplay of the Pokemon Sylveon.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay means exploring the creative side of yourself. Making art is my passion, so when I learned about cosplay I was so excited to have found a new platform to channel my creativity into. It's also a great way to express yourself, to meet people and discover new things about you. Outside of cosplay, I'm very shy and quiet, but when I'm in cosplay I find myself becoming more comfortable in my own skin and being more outgoing! The whole experience can be very eye opening, and I'd recommend it to anyone!

Who have been your biggest influences/role models/mentors?

A close friend of mine was one of my biggest influences to begin cosplaying, and I am very grateful to her for her support when I was just getting started cosplaying. I also look up to many amazing cosplayers that I have met at conventions and seen online. The community is full of inspiring people!

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Do lots of research on the character you are cosplaying, and find as many reference photos as you can before you start putting together your costume! Also, don't feel discouraged if your first attempt at making a costume doesn't turn out exactly the way that you envisioned it - learn from your mistakes and try again! Just have fun with the experience and be proud of what you have created!

What is the most negative experience you've dealt with while cosplaying, and how did you handle it?

I've dealt with people who are very discouraging and don't truly understand what cosplay is all about. Even after trying to explain it to them, they remain closed minded and critical. I have learned that it is best not to get angry and upset when this happens. Just keep doing what makes you happy, and ignore those who may try to bring you down!