When I first started cosplaying in 2011, I never expected the cosplay scene to become this hype across the globe. Now, cosplaying is a profession making up to $200K a year. With the popularity of TikTok and Twitter, cosplay is now a household term instead of a niche`. With all of the newcomers experiencing a convention for their first time, some might be asking: What do I NOT say to cosplayers? “Whatever your passion is, keep doing it. Don’t waste time chasing after success or comparing yourself to others. Every flower blooms at a different pace.” Suzy Kassem “Cuba” from Hetalia by ChocolateD ..read more

Studio Ghibli “Spirited Away” Source: BBC.Com Although this is not a television series, this is a world renown studio that was established in 1985. Studio Ghibli has a collection of small television shows like Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter. The movies are more beloved with titles like Spirited Away written by Hayao Miyazaki, a fantasy film released in 2001 and grossed $395.8 million at the worldwide box office. Spirited Away brought us into a magical world that is delightfully animated and engrosses you in beautiful character design, a unique storyline, and unforgettable scenes. There are some ..read more

Article is featured in Nerdplus Winter 2023 lite magazine. What is your cosplay name and what do you go by? “My cosplay name is Trini Tsunami and my cosplay group is La Dolce Vita Cosplay.” Madoka from Madoka Magika. How long have you been cosplaying and what was your first convention? “‘2009, MTAC Ninja in Nashville, TN.” What inspired you to cosplay? “My love of anime inspired me to cosplay. In particular, the series Sailor Moon inspired me. I want to feel as though I am bringing the characters I love to life.” Any advice for new cosplayers? “Do what makes you happy. Be who you want to be ..read more

*None of these products are sponsored and are all opinion based. *This post was also featured in Winter 2023 Lite Edition of NerdPlus Magazine. Eliminate Crotch Rot Lume creme deodorant or stick deodorant provides 72 hour protection. I personally have used this on hot summer days or prior to working out and I have been smell free! This is perfect for hot convention weather that makes us all stickier than usual. Fear the febreze ninja! ~$19.99 Found at Amazon and other retailers. Best Chub Rub Fighter Gold Bond Friction Defense Tired of of your thighs chafing when wearing shorts or skirts ..read more

When you go to an anime, gaming, or comic convention, there are several things you can do to make your life easier while at the convention. I’ve been going to conventions for over ten years, so hopefully these tips will help newcomers who have the question of “What do I bring to the convention and how do I survive all the people?” 1. Bring the essentials. Bottled Water – stay hydrated Snack – curb hunger Portable Phone Battery – stay powered on Smaller Wallet – keep your essentials close Spare Tote Bag or Plastic Art Sleeve – for those dealer’s room and artist alley purchases Backpack, Purse ..read more

You’ve been to conventions and experienced panels that are good and bad. Now you want to make your own panel and enhance the cosplay community around you by contributing with an amazing panel! Where do you start? Here are some tips to host a great panel at a convention! Take a general idea and add an interactive spin. You want to host a Q&A Panel for a fandom? Do something different with the Q&A. You want to do a cosplay demonstration workshop? Include a raffle. You want to do a more informative panel? Add some audience interactive icebreakers. Basically, take a general idea and make i ..read more

Over the years of cosplaying, I’ve had many of my local friends or co-workers ask me: “How do I get started cosplaying?”All good things must have a start, and I feel like this definition of cosplay is a good one to define what it really is: Cos·play the practice of dressing up as a character from a movie, book, or video game, especially one from the Japanese genres of manga and anime. Here’s a basic outline of what we will be going through step-by-step. Choosing your character Reference Images Budget Buying vs. Altering/Making Enjoying & Tips The first step seems simple, but it takes so ..read more

  If you’ve ever been to an anime convention… this post is for you. Top 10 Annoying Things about anime conventions packed into a convenient gift set. Enjoy the ride! 1. “How do I get into voice acting?” Please, just shut up. We’ve all had that one person in the audience who asks the notorious question to voice actors. “How do I get into voice acting?” even after they cover it prior in their speeches and despite the notorious YouTube responses that answer this question. Most panelists will be kind and answer anyway, or some will be short and sweet with the “honest hard work” approach ..read more

So, you’re looking to try a new cosplay. Who do you choose? Usually, choosing which cosplay you want to do next comes in one out of three scenarios: You have so many ideas of who you want to cosplay. You have no clue what cosplay you want to try next. You have never cosplayed and this is your first time. You’re not alone! All cosplayers have a first cosplay and everyone starts somewhere. Whether it’s your first time cosplaying or you’re a veteran, we all are stuck with the question of “Who next?” However, there are many ways to choose cosplay. Whether you’re deciding on that O.C. from World ..read more