Fundraiser for Katsucons late Director of Japanese Cultural

On February 28th, it was reported that Christine Larson, Katsucons Director of Japanese Culture was hospitalized with a a chronic case of the H1N1 virus (aka Swine Flu) and pneumonia. Christines condition was so bad that she was put in a medically induced coma. Mrs. Larson, whom is a mother, is married to Katsucon co-chairman Grig Larson. A Go Fund Me page was created by Cat Hillberry to help pay for Christines medical bills. Sadly, on March 2nd, just 16 days after the 2014 Katsucon show, Christine passed away at 3:45pm.

The family is still in need of donations to cover medical bills. The Go Fund Me Pages goal is $25,000 and has currently raised $10,818. Every little bit helps for this family who is mourning the sudden loss of a wife and mother. I have never attended a Katsucon convention nor do I know the Larson family however in times like these, that is irreverent. You dont have to know someone to lend a helping hand when they are in need.

Please send all donations to the Go Fund Me Page at: http://www.gofundme.com/779x2s

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Why I Decided to Get Involved in Shows

"Egotism is the drive to maintain and enhance favorable views of oneself, and generally features an inflated opinion of ones personal features and importance."

I think its safe to say that we have all known someone who was an egotist. Sadly, in the world of costuming more and more egotists are popping up. Some people believe that they are better than others, certain costumers are competing with each other and many are caught up in racking up the most "likes" on Facebook as if their very lives depended on it. Ive personally known people who got involved with conventions for one reason and one reason only; to see their names on the Guest List and brag about it to high hell. It has nothing to do with helping the show as a member of the staff or meeting with people interested in our craft. Its to be a "Cosplay Celebrity" or a "Professional Cosplayer." Because of the behavior Ive personally seen live and in person, I had sworn off getting involved with shows in an effort not to be like the Cosplay Egotists but all of that changed at the 2013 Pittsburgh Comic Con.

Im going to be blunt; there is no such thing as a "cosplay celebrity" or a "professional cosplayer". Every time I see or hear that term, I laugh myself silly. I truly believe that that is the most idiotic term I have ever heard. Cosplay is a hobby, not a profession. If you make and sell your own costumes and props, then you are a costume maker/seamstress/designer or a prop maker. Would you put "Professional Cosplayer" on a job application? If you did, Im sure you would be laughed out of the office or they would look at you like you had three heads. And what makes a person a "professional or expert cosplayer"? If you have experience then you can just as easily say "veteran cosplayer". Throwing in "professional" or "expert" is just a BS way of making someone appear glamorous and important. Now comes the title of "cosplay celebrity". True, there are certain costumers who are more well known than others but that doesnt necessarily mean that they are the best or celebrities.



A cosplayer is a cosplayer. Plain and simple. The fancy titles are smoke and mirrors.

I never wanted to become a costumer who sought the spotlight. I got into costuming to express my fandom, not to seek fame. Ive seen people change in their search for cosplay stardom and I was afraid I would be following down the path of egotism if I got involved with shows. But then I was asked last minute to be one of the judges at the Costume Contest at the 2013 Pittsburgh Comic-Con along side Freddie Nova. Although I was bewildered, I accepted. It was truly a learning lesson for me and completely changed my perspective. A lot of that has to do with the gracious Freddie Nova. Freddie is beautiful and very talented. Her liquid latex Venom photos went viral and she has an enormous fan base. Everyone from comic creators to comic fans and cosplayers knows who she is and yet she is very humble. She treats everyone with respect and was incredibly encouraging to every person who took the stage. I saw for the first time someone use their position to spread positivity and it was beautiful. I learned from her shining example and was sure to smile at all of the contestants, encourage them and even spoke to a few of them afterwards and online. Many were first timers in costuming who had many questions. It felt wonderful to help others and I want to continue that.



Im currently scheduled for 2 more local shows. Im not doing it to see my name in lights and I actually make it clear that I do not want to be credited as a professional cosplay celebrity". Im simply a cosplayer who wants to reach out and support the community. So think of me as a Goodwill Ambassador of Cosplay, if you will. But never a professional cosplayer. *laughs*

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Baltimore Comic Con 2013 Coverage

The Baltimore Comic-Con took place Saturday and Sunday, September 7th-8th at the Baltimore Convention Center in  Maryland. The show had an impressive guest list featuring dozens of writers, artists and other talented professionals in the comic industry. This was my first time attending the show in roughly 6 years and I was very much looking forward to it. Im happy to report that the show was easily one of the best events I have attended this year. Professionals in attendance included George Perez, Billy Tucci, Mark Waid, and David Finch. A complete list can still be viewed on the Baltimore Comic-Con website: http://baltimorecomiccon.com/guests/   A large variety of vendors were also present and special events took place such as the Harvey Awards ceremony and Sundays Costume Contest. There were also many exclusives and panels headlined by top names.

My photographer and I arrived in the city on Saturday. After checking into our hotel, I changed into my dark haired variant of Supergirl and we headed to the show. There were massive crowds there enjoying the festivities. We caught up with many of our cosplay friends. We also visited our friend, artist Billy Tucci and I purchased a stunning Catwoman print from him modeled after Jennifer Van Damsel. After making our first tour of the entire convention floor, we made our way back to the hotel so I could change into Huntress. We went back to the show to resume touring the convention center. Upon speaking with some people in the lobby, former DC Comics President, writer and artist Paul Levitz introduced himself to me.

"As the creator of Huntress, I highly approve."

There is no greater honor than when a creator gives you their blessing on your portrayal of their character.


Many cosplayers and I spent some time in the lobby posing for what seemed like an unlimited request of photos. When the show was over, we spent the evening dining out with friends. On Sunday I was doing my very first group photo shoot that I organized. The theme was the television series Once Upon A Time. The cast included Kevin Diplacido as Captain Hook, Jacky Brodhead as Regina the Evil Queen, Shemika Demouchet Berry as Maleficent, Iggy Cosplay as The Mad Hatter, Lindsay Lou as Red Riding Hood and myself as Belle. All photos were shot by my photographer at Green House Photography. I was a bit nervous organizing my first convention shoot but it turned out even better than I imagined. My friends were completely gorgeous in their roles. Our first location for the shoot was on a ship by the harbor. The second was the patio at the convention center. We were all very popular as we walked the con as a group and were often mobbed for photos.


The remainder of Sunday included stopping by to see my friend, comic legend George Perez and catching up with anyone we missed Saturday. We left about an hour before the show closed to prepare for our drive back home.

The Baltimore-Comic Con has become one of my favorite shows and we will most definitely be attending next year and future years to come. The thing I love most about the event is that it has remained true to its roots. Its about the comics. Whereas others shows are more focused on pop culture, Baltimore keeps it real. The employees were friendly, helpful and the show was organized beautifully. I have heard nothing but positive feedback from those that attended. There was also a bit of excitement in the air, as rumor spread next years show will be expanded for 3 days. We are all keeping our fingers crossed hoping 2014 will mean 3 days of comic geek heaven in Maryland.

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For a full gallery of the show, visit my official Facebook Page

For a complete gallery of the Once Upon A Time shoot, visit Green House Photography

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Cosplay Spotlight Knightess Rouge

I first discovered Nataschas cosplay work while scrolling on my Newsfeed on Facebook. It was one of those moments when you literally stop. The German beauty literally looks like a comic book character come to life. With her high quality costumes and stunning photography, Natascha aka Knightess Rouge, has developed a huge following including Batgirl writer, Gail Simone. Natascha took some time to chat with the Confessions of a Cosplay Girl Blog about her craft, the sudden firing (and re-hiring) of Gail Simone and what fasinates her about Barbara Gordon.


Victoria: How long have you been in the hobby of costuming?

Natascha: Im involved in making costumes for about six or seven years, but started doing superhero costumes and bigger projects only one year ago. The past year made me develop so many new skills and also a bigger interest in costume making. Its been a great joy.

Victoria: Where are you from?

Natascha: Im from Germany. Living in a small city close to Cologne and Düsseldorf.

Victoria: Do you have any costumes currently in the works?

Natascha: Yes, indeed. I actually always work on a few costumes at the same time. Right now Im working on a Stephanie Brown Batgirl costume, Firestar, Daenerys Targaryen, Princess Leia, Dove of Hawk and Dove and Mara Jade. Quite a lot! Most of them are close to the finish and some need a little more work. I like to work on many different things to inspire me and keep me working.

Victoria: Tell me about the process of creating your Batgirl costume.


Natascha: It was quite a long process. I started planning and organizing the costume about three months before I started working on it. As soon as my ReevzFX cowl arrived (which is btw. AMAZING. I love his work!), I started working on the bat-suit. It took me three tries with different materials until I got the result I wanted. Fortunately I managed to make the cape without any problems. Its made from pleather and yellow lining and has a little zipper in the back. My belt is made from pleather and the little "capsules" are made from an aluminium pipe and bolt nuts. That was quite a lot of work! It took me a while to find ideas for the belt. I really wanted to make it on my own and Im proud of the result. I always wanted to make a Batgirl costume since I was little, so it was a big dream to come true. I wouldve never gotten that far if I didnt have some amazing people around me who gave me tips and helped when I needed help. A big thank you at this point to Janet Drake, Laban & Jaz Boldero, Bob Kieffer and Shawn Reeves.

Victoria: If you could pick one actress to play Batgirl, who would it be?

Natascha: Thats a tricky question! Personally Id love to see Karen Gillian to play the role of Barbara Gordon. I think shed totally be able to pull off her character and her skills. (Not to mention the look!)

Victoria: Great choice! Do you think Barbara was a stronger, more appealing character when she was working as the wheel chair bound, Oracle?


Natascha: I know theres a lot of controversy about this topic, but personally I find her appealing no matter if shes Batgirl or Oracle. I agree that Oracle had a very important meaning and was a very different character. She gave hope & motivation to many people, but so did Batgirl. Oracle was older and more experienced. Its difficult to compare a teen/young woman to an adult, dont you agree? Barbara Gordon as Batgirl was the very first character I idolized and shell always have a special place in my heart. I also loved her as Oracle, no doubt, and I think she was extremely important for the comic world, but we have to realize that its only the beginning of Barbara Gordons story right now in the New 52. Theres so much more to come and Im sure shell grow to an even bigger hero. She always managed to fascinate people and so itll continue. I refuse to only see her as "Batgirl" or "Oracle". I see her as Barbara Gordon in all her variety and how much she means to people. The things that happened in the past are not lost. You can re-read her stories all the time and theyll never disappear. Keep them close to your heart and remember what you loved about her. I always try to be open to her new adventures. Theyve never disappointed me.

Victoria: What is it about Barbara Gordon that appeals to you?

Natascha: Her stubborness, her strength, her will not to give up. To stand up for the things she believed in and to help people. Theres so much about her that I love. Theres that normal girl, that decides to fight for justice and help people on her own. What could be more inspiring? She didnt need lots of money or a super dramatic story. What she did was fighting to make the world a better place without a dramatic background story. Just because she felt like its the right thing to do.
Even after her biggest setdown she didnt just give up. She decided to pull herself together and help the world in a different way. The character Barbara Gordon teaches us so many things. I think there cant be a better role model for kids and young adults. Im always close to tear up when I get to talk about her. Shes so important for me.

Victoria: What are your thoughts when Gail Simone was suddenly fired from writing Batgirl (and later rehired by DC due to fan outrage)?


Natascha: That was a SHOCK. I couldnt imagine someone else writing Barbara Gordon nowadays. We all know how much she loves Barbara Gordon and that shed never do something bad to her character or disappoint us. The message of her being fired from writing Batgirl made me feel miserable. Who would be able to show us the Barbara Gordon we love, if not Gail Simone? Im extremely glad shes back now and keeps on writing Batgirl. Were really lucky to have someone, who really loves the character, writing Batgirl. Someone whod never disappoint us, because she loves her as much as we do.

Victoria: Is it true that Gail Simone tweeted you?


Natascha: Yes, a few times. I always get so exciting when she does!! THE Batgirl writer calling you "the real Batgirl" is about the best feeling ever. I remember almost tearing up when she first followed me and tweeted me. Unforgetable. Sometimes I cant believe all these wonderful memories are real.

Victoria: Where can people go to learn more about you? Do you have a website or Facebook?

Natascha: Yes, I do! I have a little Facebook page for my costuming work. ( https://www.facebook.com/KnightessRouge )

You can also find me on twitter ( https://twitter.com/knightessrouge ), which I use more regularly and tumblr ( http://knightess-rouge.tumblr.com/ ) or deviantart ( http://knightess-rouge.deviantart.com/ ).

Thank you so much for the wonderful questions! I really enjoyed answering them!

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Fighting Post Con Depression

PCD, also known as Post Con Depression affects millions of us everyday. What is Post Con Depression? It is a depressive state one falls into after enjoying the highs of a convention. After spending months working on costumes, scheduling photo shoots, making travel arrangements and spending quality time with out of state friends, we find that we have to return to our normal everyday lives. Its hard. Its an adjustment. It can seriously suck. So how do we bounce back? Hopefully this article can help you fight the blues.

Lets be realistic for a minute; none of us expect a con to last forever, right? So why does PCD hit us so hard each and every time? Shouldnt we be use to it by now? The answer is no and dont ever feel bad for experiencing it. Its natural that we would miss the friends that we see only a few times a year. We also miss the creativity and excitement of a con. How do we cope?  Below is a helpful list:

1. Start planning for your next con: Part of the problem with PCD is that now that the con is over, we have nothing to look forward to. But that doesnt have to be the case. How about planning for your next con? Lord knows it takes a great deal of money and organization so you might as well get a head start on costumes, cosplay groups and photo shoots. Now theres something to look forward to!

2. Hang out with friends: I completely understand what its like to have friends scattered all over the country. The best part of traveling is all of the friends you get to see and catch up with. But dont forget, that you also have friends in your own back yard (so to speak). So why not appreciate what you have and plan a fun get together?

3. Take time to relax: Theres nothing wrong with spoiling yourself every once in a while and taking time for you. This means a variety of things including laying back and watching your favorite movie, buying yourself something nice, eating your favorite snack or spending quality time with that special someone. Find something that makes you happy and immerse yourself in it. You deserve it.

4. Communicate: If you miss your con friends, dont be afraid to tell them! Theres no reason to keep that bottled up inside and communication is key in any relationship.



5. Local Cosplay Get Togethers: Photo shoots and costumes dont have to remain inside the convention halls. Know any local costumers? Why not get together and do something creative? You can work on costumes or plan joint photo shoots.


6. Lets Get Physical: Going out for a walk or a run can benefit both your body and mind greatly.


7. If You Have to Cry, Let it Out: Dont be afraid to shed a few tears. Con life is full of a lot of emotions and its easy to become overwhelmed. If you have a moment where you feel like you want to burst into tears, go for it. I would also recommend a writing exercise to further help; write down how you are feeling and why you are feeling that way. Once you release all of that baggage, feel free to tear it up or burn the letter in the kitchen sink.

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Comic Legends gather for the 2013 Baltimore Comic Con!

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George Perez, Adam Hughes and Cliff Chiang.

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I have been attending comic conventions for 10 years, starting with local cons in the Philadelphia area. In the last 4 years, I have been lucky enough to expand my travels and attend shows all around the country. What makes a great show? The guest list and the hard working people who are organizing the event. The Baltimore Comic-Con falls into the category of one of the best. It is a favorite among con goers and I am thrilled for this years show which features an impressive guest list of legends and favorites from the comic book industry.

The Baltimore Comic-Con stays true to their roots and origin. Its about the comics. With a large selection of writers and artists, their 5th Annual Costume Contest and the Harvey Awards Ceremony, theres plenty to do for geeks of all ages. A large selection of retailors and exhibitors will also be on hand selling everything from toys to statues and comics. The guest list includes talent such as David Finch, Amanda Conner, Mark Waid, Frank Cho and Joe Staton just to name a few. A complete list, which is still being updated, can be seen on their website: http://baltimorecomiccon.com/guests/

The event will be taking place Saturday and Sunday, September 7th -8th. A weekend pass is only $40.00 ($42.39 with a service fee). Compare that to the Wizard World Philadelphia Comic-Con, which is charging the outrageous price of $50.00 for a one day pass online, $60.00 at the door (a show that is focused on booking actors both relevent and irrelevent  rather than comic talent). Tickets for the Baltimore Comic-Con can be purchased here: http://baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets/

This will be my second time attending the show and I am very much looking forward to it. Ill see you in Baltimore! ?http://baltimorecomiccon.com/

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The Worst Cosplay Questions I Have Been Asked

Over the course of 8 years I have been interviewed by many websites regarding costuming and other hobbies that I enjoy. During this time I have been asked the absolute worst questions that are rude, invasive to my privacy or flat out dumb. I dont understand how anyone (mostly men) think its appropriate to speak to a woman like this but then again, thats the problem isnt it? These guys forget that I am a woman. I am a person. Im someones daughter, sister, aunt and girlfriend. Would you ask your daughter these questions to post on the world wide web? Probably not particularly when most of these questions are resulting in information that will bring a crazed fan boy right to your front door step. Thanks for trying to risk my safety, pal. Below are examples of the worst questions I have ever been asked.

#1. My Phone Number: This is always a nice excuse "Can I have your phone number so I can do an over the phone interview with you? Its easier."  Actually, no its not. I use to write for a comic website and conducted two over the phone interviews with artists and trust me when I say, its a bitch playing back the audio and typing it up word for word. Why do these guys think its appropriate to ask for my number? Youre a stranger. Why the hell would I give you my number so you can abuse it later? Nice try. Just email me the damn questions.

#2. My weight: Its never okay to ask someone how much they weigh. Ever. And how is that relevant to cosplay?

#3. Photo of me without makeup: Why the hell do you want to see what I look like when I wake up in the morning? I get asking for a "normal" photo but without makeup? Really? For what?!

#4. Can I take you out for dinner sometime? Wait; what?!

#5. Family questions: What does my family have to do with cosplay? Why do you want to know how they reacted to me wanting to dress as a superhero? Perhaps you think theres a story there? Maybe you think they tried to ship me off to the Betty Ford Clinic cause they thought I had a "problem"?

#6. Can you give me your full name?: Obviously Sherlock, "Cosplay" isnt my last name but I think its also obvious that if Im using a stage name, its because I dont want my full legal name out there. No you may not have my full legal name. Its none of your business.

#7. Can you tell me your city and state?: This is usually the follow up to the "Can you give me your full name?" question and is a great stalker tactic. If they have your full legal name and city and state, all they have to do is jump on Goggle and BAM! They can find out where you live. And Im sure my boyfriend will be more than happy to make street meat out of you while I call the cops. Seriously, have a little respect. I always answer with "The Philadelphia area" which is true and vague enough because there are dozens of townships in the area but you dont need to know which one I live in.

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Cosplay 2013 A Year in Review

Last year I wrote my first Cosplay Year In Review article, which showcased all of the costumes and characters I had brought to life in 2012. I greatly enjoyed writing it and now that another year has come and gone, its time to take a look back at my creative projects in  2013.

Miss Martian: Young Justice

Miss Martain was a spur-of-the-moment creative project. I had a proper red wig and green makeup from my Wicked Witch of the West costume. I decided to put the two together to see if I could indeed create her look and it turned out wonderfully. I put my own twist on it and wanted Megan to wear Connors t-shirt. The result was fun and flirty. Id like to do a full Miss Martian costume in the future. Photo by Green House Photography.

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Betty Rubble: The Flintstones

I attended the Pittsburgh Comic Con for the first time this year with Freddie Nova. During our stay we had a photo shoot with friend and photographer Grace Moss of Bodhi Tree Photography. Freddie came up with the theme of Betty and Wilma, which turned into a hilariously fun shoot. After posting the pictures online, I discovered that quite a few people have a fetish with these ladies from the stone age. Photo by Bodhi Tree Photography. 

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Supergirl: DC Comics

Supergirl is the most work Ive ever put into a costume without any help. Its the most sewing Ive done by hand. Ive worn two different hairstyles with this; blonde and dark haired. I am very proud of all of my hard work and this costume has become a go-to for local charity events. This particular look is my personal favorite of Kara Zor-El. Photo by Green House Photography. 

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Belle: Once Upon A Time

The television series Once Upon A Time is one of my favorite shows. At this years Baltimore Comic-Con, I organized my first group shoot based on the hit show. A friend of mine loaned me the gown which was a beautiful recreation of the one worn by actress Emilie De Ravin. Photo by Green House Photography. 

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Rose Tyler: Doctor Who

Rose Tyler is one of my favorite companions and I realized I had everything in my closet to piece together her look. Lucky for me I met an amazing  10th Doctor at a local show and he was kind enough to shoot with me.  This is one of my favorite images from 2013. Photo by Green House Photography. 

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Princess Jasmine: Disneys Aladdin

Jasmine is a costume I had in my closet but failed to put together correctly. It took me a while to find jewelry I was happy with and a wig that would cooperate. Im so pleased with how it turned out; Jasmine is one of my favorite princesses! Photo by Green House Photography. 

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Poison Ivy: Batman

Sadly Ive only worn this costume to one photo shoot so people (including myself) tend to forget that Ive done Ivy. Ive promised myself however that I will be shooting in it again in 2014 and will be wearing it to at least one convention. Ivy was a bit difficult for me because although Im well educated on the character, theres many different avenues you can take while cosplaying her. I decided on a floral Pamela Isley, hence the flower jewelry and soft makeup. Photo by Photos and Designs by Piera. 

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Cosplay Spotlight Abby Dark Star

The lovely and talented Abby Dark-Star is well known by comic fans and cosplayers alike. The multi talented beauty took some time out to chat with the Confessions of a Cosplay Girl Blog about making body armor, putting together her epic Arkham Asylum Poison Ivy, married life with fellow geek Zendragon and much more!





Victoria: How long have you been in the hobby of costuming?


Abby: I have been costuming since about 2006/07? I dont quite remember but it seems like forever!


Victoria: You have a very impressive portfolio of stunning costumes. How many characters have you brought to life?


Abby: I have brought probably over 20 characters to life? I honestly havent kept track, I see a character and go "shiny" and then Im off.


Victoria: One of my favorite costumes you have done is the Arkham Asylum version of Poison Ivy. Can you tell me about the process of creating it?


Abby: Arkham Asylum Poison Ivy was a tricky costume because it was very detailed. It involved body paint and prosthetics. I knew that it wasnt feasible to spend hours applying prosthetics so I came up with the idea of using a body stocking. I had Mike S. of DragonFyre Designs sculpt the vines which where then cast. I modified the body stocking and then applied the vines. The shirt was modified and I put the blue edging on it. The logo was applied to the back of the shirt. The wig was entirely done by me, as it was a base wig and then wefts sewn in to create the dramatic widows peak that Ivy has. I then had a body artist paint my face, chest, hands and arms, and also apply the prosthetics. It was a long process, but well worth it!


Victoria: How did you learn to make more complex items such as body armor?


Abby: Im still learning to make body armor! Thankfully I have great resources in the RPF and talented friends. Worbla is the most often used medium right now, and there are epic tutorials from Kamui cosplay online that can really help people get started!


Victoria: Youre a newly wed! Congrats on your marriage! What was your wedding like?


Abby: Thanks! Our wedding was a convention. No, seriously! It started off as a way to celebrate my bday and then Zen and I decided, what the hey, why not get married? So we did! We had a long weekend with tons of friend in Vegas, we did limos, parties, had a VIP section at Steel Panther, it was amazing. Our wedding itself was in a gorgeous almond orchard! Of course there was geeky stuff everywhere as we asked our guests to bring a prop and even dress up. It was amazingly special.


Victoria: Is it fun sharing a life with someone who is as passionate about the hobby as you are?


Abby: I love being Zens partner in this crazy costuming life we have. We really balance each other well! Were both crazy about accuracy and detail, so we encourage, inspire and create together. He is my partner in everything!


Victoria: What costumes do you have planned for the future?


Abby: Right now Im planning on revamping some old costumes, as well debut a new costume for a video game Im in, "Crystal Fury" from Comic ConQuest!


Victoria: An artist recently made a beautiful statue of you as fem Indiana Jones. Whats it like being a statue?

Abby: Its hard to be a statue...you cant breathe or eat! Haha! No it is a wonderful compliment to be chosen to be immortalized like that, and I really love the fact that what would usually be my take is all going to charity!


Victoria: How has costuming impacted your life in a positive way?


Abby: Costuming has enabled me to make amazing friends, have fantastic experiences and even recently allowed me to change career paths. Without costuming I wouldnt have been able to meet my husband, my best friend, or anyone else that is now part of my world!


Victoria: Where can people contact you and view a portfolio of your work?


Abby: Facebook is the easiest way to see my daily geekery, so facebook.com/abbydarkstar

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Megacon 2013

The 2013 MegaCon Convention took place in Orlando, Florida at the Orange County Convention Center. The event took place March 15th through the 17th and boasted an impressive guest list featuring talent from comics and the cast of Star Trek: The Next Generation. This year marked my second time attending  the show and I had three costumes on my schedule; Snow White, Huntress and Zatanna. I was attending Saturdays DC shoot and had a private session with SGH Photography Saturday. I also had the opportunity to shoot with Bodhi Tree Photography. There were many talented costumers at this years show. Photographs featured in this article were taken by Photos by Jojo and myself.

Last years trip to Megacon was a whirlwind and a bit of a blur for me. I was invited last minute and flew to Orlando Saturday afternoon, having to leave Sunday afternoon. I also had work the following Monday so rest was nonexistent. This year I was able to plan ahead and extend my stay. I flew to Florida Thursday and didnt leave until Monday. Thursday I was able to spend some time with friends and make new ones. On Friday I attended the show dressed as Snow White. After picking up our badges, we went to see comic legend George Perez. I was able to tour the entire convention center this time and realized how much I missed last year. There were far more artists and vendors there than I had thought. My friends and I did some shopping, met up with friends and I posed for photos upon request. I really enjoyed the childrens reaction to Snow White. My favorite memory was when a little girl gave me a hug. I found a fellow Disney Princess; a stunning girl dressed as Belle in a beautiful gown she created. A friend introduced me to Adam Hughes which was very exciting for me. The day ended with dinner at Dennys with friends where oddly enough, I was recognized (out of costume) as we waited for our table.

On Saturday I was dressed as Huntress. When my friends and I arrived at the convention center we were in for a bit of a shock. The crowds were huge, as in San Diego Comic Con huge. It was extrememly difficult to navigate through the crowds. The Dealer Room became impossible to walk through. After paying George Perez another visit,  we watched a Belly Dancer show. After the show, we made our way to the main entrance where we ran into some fellow cosplayers and photographer Grace Moss. We took some photos then headed to the area where the DC shoot was to take place. I have to report that the shoot was poorly organized. There was a lot of confusion, conflicting direction and no leadership. People began breaking off and taking pictures in groups of their own, including myself. We ended up leaving, took some shots outside then made our way to a friends hotel room to rest before my  shoot with SGH Photography. We had dinner at an Italian Resturant and were pleasantly surprised to find out the cast of Star Trek: The Next Generation was also there. We saw Patrick Stewart walk by our table and caught glimpses of the rest of the cast. We also happen to be outside when the cast took a group photo with the staff of the resturant.

By Sunday I was a bit drained and decided not to wear Zatanna. I chose to attend the con as normal me and was surprised some people still recognized me. A few even asked for photos. Sunday was very laid back which was a huge relief after Saturdays crowds. Sunday was a day full with friends and bonding. We ran into George Perez once again and I got to say hello to my friend Billy Tucci. We went shopping, hung out at the Hero Initiative booth, celebrated two birthdays and had dinner. On Monday morning we had a farewell breakfast at IHOP before I was dropped off at the airport. My favorite part of these shows is the fact that they bring people together. I am very fortunate and blessed that I have been accepted into a circle of amazing people with beautiful hearts. We shared so many laughs together and this years show is full of fond memories. Its interesting to see how much the Megacon Convention has grown. I spoke to several people who have been attending the show for years who were quite startled at Saturdays crowds. Its extrodinary to see how much  geek culture has grown and that is something to be celebrated.

Id like to thank all those involved in this years Megacon Convention. My full gallery can be seen on my Official Facebook Page and be sure to check out Jojos full gallery on her Facebook.

                                                                        

                        

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