Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

I'm new to the game, but so far being a cosplayer is amazing! The community is supportive of everyone whether they are just starting or have lots of experience. There are so many groups and pages where you can ask questions and people are always ready to help anyone out! The best part is that that's not even close to the support and all the love at conventions! I've never felt more at home or with family than at a convention!

What are your next goals?

My next goal is to successfully make my first armour build out of Worbla; a Barbarian from Diablo 3. I've started it and it's a blast!

Cosplay Characters

Rocket Raccoon is my first successful and finished cosplay, but I'm currently working on Logan/Wolverine and a Barbarian from Diablo 3.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay means having fun and showing off projects you have worked hard on. The first con I went to was eve-opening in that I realized that there were so many people who weren't afraid to let their geek flag fly, I was so inspired. It's a great feeling to have your passions validated. I realized that I should do what makes me happy, and if that's dressing up like my favourite characters and reading comic books, then I should own it!

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

Every person that cosplays! It takes a lot of guts to step out in costume and I admire everyone who is passionate enough about a game/book/etc to do it. All the cosplay guests that I have seen are inspiring in their own way. One of my favourite facebook moments was reading a post by Jessica Nigri where she explained that she liked to do sexy cosplay, but that it was okay to choose whatever kind of cosplay you want, as long as you are having fun. I really want to go to a con to meet Ivy Doomkitty!

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

I am one! But I would say just do it!! It took me so long to work up the courage to make my first cosplay because I wasn't sure if it would work out or what people would think. It's important to not worry about that because wearing it for the first time was such a high.

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

I haven't had any yet myself, but I have seen some internet posts that I don't think belong in the community. It's never okay to shame anyone for how they look or how they choose to dress. If you wouldn't make a comment to someone's face, don't say it online!

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

Thanks so much for contacting me, I'm happy to talk about something that's so much fun!