Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

Being a cosplayer is a lot of work with a lot of reward. A lot of dedication and time goes into each and every costume. And the reward is how people light up when you've brought their favourite character to life.

What are your next goals?

My goals are to get better. I want to work with different materials, and I want to be able to make anything, and I want it to be and look decent and not break. I also want to be able to commission costumes, although this will most likely just be sewn costumes, no props.

Cosplay Characters

Past: Haruhi Suzumiya, Konata Izumi, C.C., Haruhi Fujioka, Malka Albarn, LanFan, Starfleet, Pink Jedi, Link Future: Jedi (own design, Sylvanaw Gawin), Erza Scarlett, Pocahontas.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay to me is an escape. I have dealt with illness as well as loss with costuming. I also don't have to be myself for the day or the weekend.

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

I have a few friends who have been mentors, the only one who has a facebook page is Kat Cosplay (That I'm aware of). She always has good advice when I need it, and she's been a shoulder to lean on at times as well since we're in the same field of work.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

DO NOT GIVE UP. I don't care if one detail is off on your costume, and neither should you. Everybody makes mistakes so don't ride yourself for them. I can't tell you how many times I miss-hemmed something or whatever else I've done. Including opting for glue instead of sewing straps onto a shield... (not my proudest moment)

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

Honestly, just general racism. While it isn't necessarily a huge problem for me at anytime, it is still there from time to time, and the location for our local conventions are surrounded by the stereotypical "bad natives" and so I get a bad rap no matter what out there. Unfortunately. Depending where it happens, like if it's from an employee at a store, I will walk out and not buy anything, while also pointing out that they're being a jerk.

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

Um..... HAVE FUN! and be responsible if drinking, and never let anybody get you down.