Atlantic Canada Conventions

1. Wigs

Wigs are vital for a lot of cosplays, especially if the character has unnatural hair, however it is important that if you are at a con for HOURS that you let your head breath as you don’t want to faint (the buys halls can get very hot). Try and take a wig bag with you to a con and wear a wig cap, that way if you need to, you can remove the wig but keep your hair secure so you can put it back on with out having to pin all your hair out of the way again (alternatively, instead of a wig cap, use a small socks made of stretchy tights/pantyhoes material)

2. Binders

This really can apply to anyone, not just cosplay (eg I use one for my crossplay characters like Tweek and Craig). Whatever you do, DON’T USE BANDAGES, as you will be at the con for a long time you don’t want to damage the sensitive tissue there. A binder is more comfortable, BUT after a while it may start to hurt. Listen to your body and take it off in one of the toilets if needed. My main tip is to take a bra with you so you can switch into it if needed (I am speaking from experience 😅)

3. Weapons/props

Every convention has different rules for these, so check the website of your given event a few days before you go in case of last minute revisions (rules changed for MCM London due to Manchester terrorist attacks one year so cases for cosplays where more strict for example to make sure there weren’t bombs). A good rule of thumb is to make the weapons/props from larp safe materials or paper mache (sometimes wood is allowed but definitely nothing metal!). Also being able to break a prop down into smaller pieces is very good to help with height limits.

4. Hydration, nutrition and rest.

I cannot stress enough how important these are. The queues are going to be long and it will be hot, so making sure you stay hydrated is a must. You don’t want to faint. Also make sure to eat when you can and always sit down when your feet tell you too. Yes conventions are an awesome experience, but don’t push your body to far just to see everything.

5. Money

Definitely buy stuff you want, but if you have to pay to get back to the hotel or home, make sure you keep this money separate from your spending money. You don’t want to be stranded and have no way of getting back.

6. Hygiene

If you go for several days you may want to take showers when you return to your hotel/home. Trust me, you may be exhausted, but being clean will make you feel better, it does get sweaty and you don’t want to ruin the costume you’ve spent loads of time/money/effort on. Also having deodorant in your bag is good (but this is not the same as a shower! This is only a quick fix!)

7. Pictures

If you want to take a picture of someone’s cosplay, please do ask their permission before hand. More often than not they will be happy to. Sometimes though they may be trying to get to a panel so if they say no, please respect them.

8. HAVE FUN 😄

At the end of the day, a con is a place for everyone who loves geek culture. It’s a chance to meet people with the same interests as you. Try and avoid the drama that can happen and enjoy the experience. Remember to stay safe but staying in groups (there can be people who will try and feel cosplayers up so strength in numbers will help avoid this).