Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

Hi, I'm maddy! I'm a sixteen year old cosplayer. I've been cosp laying for about 2 years now. Cosplay an amazing experience. I love making costumes so much. Cosplay has not only helped me find something I love doing, but I have met so many amazing people and have been able to have so many awesome opportunities because of cosplay. It's such an amazing feeling putting on a completed costume and seeing the final result. It makes me so happy.

What are your next goals?

To continue to improve my costume making skills, and hopefully get my name out there and make lots of new friends!

Cosplay Characters

Chell from portal, the pyro from tf2, medic from tf2, feferi peixes from homestuck, Hilda from pokemon, domo

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay means that I can be whoever I want. Cosplay gives me self esteem and makes me feel awesome.

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

All of my friends who are cosplayers, Yaya Han, and everyone who I've met along my cosplay journey.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Don't be afraid to express yourself. If you have fun with what you are doing, you will enjoy it so much more. Never stress about what level you are at, because everyone starts somewhere. The cosplay community is so friendly, you shouldn't be afraid to go out there and express yourself!

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

Luckily, I haven't come across to many negative things. One time I posted a makeup test to a site called reddit, where I received some very negative feedback on what I was doing. I didn't freak out, but simply told them that they shouldn't say something if it isn't nice. I was backed up by a lot of nice people, so everything ended up being ok.

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

To all cosplayers, thanks for being awesome! To cutie cosplayers, have fun, and don't be afraid to be weird!