The Costumer
Transcription
The Costumer
The Costumer • December 2013 The Costumer • December 2013 The official publication of the National Costumers Association, Inc. December 2013 Volume 89, Issue 4 Serving the Business of Costuming Since 1923 Educating • Energizing • Enriching P ublic atio ns Manag er ublicatio ations Manager The Costumer Diane Sheibley 31 Bramblewood St. Bridgewater, MA 02324 Fax 508-819-3013 [email protected] P ublic atio ns Associate & A dS ales ublicatio ations Ad Sales The Costumer Debbie Lyn Owens 800-NCA-1889 • 408-470-8098 Fax 508-819-3013 [email protected] Ex ecutiv ector Executiv ecutivee Dir Director Dorothy Shadrick 6000 E. Evans Ave. 3-205 Denver, CO 80222 800-NCA-1321 • Fax 303-758-9616 [email protected] © 2013, National Costumers Association. The Costumer is published by the National Costumers Association, Inc., with headquarters located at the above address, a nonprofit and incorporated association of costumers located in the United States, Australia, Bahamas, Canada, India, Ireland, Mexico, and Great Britain. No responsibility is assumed for the opinions expressed or claims made by the authors of articles or by advertisers. Appearance in the magazine does not constitute endorsement by the National Costumers Association, nor its officers or representatives. 2 NCA Administration 5 This Issue’s Advertisers 5 President’s Letter 6 Organization, Member, and Industry News 32 NCA Marketplace Features 10 Member Profile: Junk for Joy 12 Why Blogging Helps Your Business 16 Come Out and Cosplay 18 Costuming Theater – Is It for You? 20 50 Years of “Doctor Who” Costuming 25 2014 Buyers Guide! About the Cover BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - Disney Musical “The Beauty and the Beast” in Opera Theater. Photography by ©Edurivero Graphic design & typography by Rob Lehr. www .costumers.org www.costumers.org The Costumer • December 2013 1 NCA Administration BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Linda Adams-Foat Camelot Costumes 1321 S. Demeter Dr. Freeport, IL 61032 815-233-1861 [email protected] TREASURER Jane Powell Costumes Etc. 2138 Faulkner Rd. Atlanta, GA 30324 404-728-4598 Fax 404-728-4599 [email protected] DIRECTOR Marion Bradley 2014* The Costume Shop 1300 Watson Blvd. Warner Robins, GA 31093 478-328-1414 [email protected] DIRECTOR Janine Caufield 2015* Caufield’s 1006 West Main St. Louisville, KY 40202 502-583-0636 Fax 502-583-2002 [email protected] VICE PRESIDENT Karen Grizzard Main Street Party Station 10749 Jefferson Ave Newport News, VA 23601 757-597-7069 • Fax 757-591-0692 [email protected] IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Janie Westendorf Curtains Up Costumes 100 Kramer St. Sigourney, IA 52591 641-622-3991 • Fax 641-622-3992 [email protected] DIRECTOR Elizabeth Galbraith 2014* Costume Gallery-Newport, LLC 638 Monmouth St. Newport, KY 41071 859-655-9419 Fax 859-655-9277 [email protected] DIRECTOR Terri Greenberg 2014* Halco 723 E. Railroad Ave Verona, PA 15147 724-929-7300 Fax 724-929-7301 [email protected] DIRECTOR Ron Ferraro 2015* Fantasy Festival Costume/Magic Centre 901 Cary Rd. Algonquin, IL 60102 847-658-2000 Fax 847-658-2002 [email protected] 2013-14 Standing Committee Chairs Buyers Group The Costumer Disaster & Grievance Executive Director Liaison Historian Membership Memorial Fund National Awards Nominations Parliamentarian Plot Service Policy & Procedures Publications Publications Liaison Roster Source List Time & Place Website Website Liaison Gary Broadrick and Glenn Alexander, Performance Studios Diane Sheibley, Publications Manager Karen Grizzard, Main Street Party Station Linda Adams-Foat, Camelot Costumes, President Barb Lochner, Once Upon A Fantasy & Rachel Godollei-Johnson, Landes Costumes by Rachel Marion Bradley, The Costume Shop Janie Westendorf, Curtains Up Costumes, Immediate Past President Janie Westendorf, Curtains Up Costumes, Immediate Past President Janie Westendorf, Curtains Up Costumes, Immediate Past President Debbie Lyn Owens, Debbie Lyn’s Costumes Ken Epperly & Ken Fox, Magic Makers Costumes Ron & Bernice Ferraro, Fantasy Festival Costume/ Magic Centre Diane Sheibley, Publications Manager Karen Grizzard, Main Street Party Station Diane Sheibley, Publications Manager Joy Galbraith, Costume Gallery-Newport Karen Grizzard, Main Street Party Station Dorothy Shadrick, NCA Executive Director Karen Grizzard, Main Street Party Station 2013-14 Event Committee Chairs National Convention Awards Convention Chair Convention Host Convention Program Creative Style Show Education/Shop Talk Hospitality Membership Forum Market Newcomers Orientation Opening Night Party President’s Banquet Registration Show and Share Student Creative Event Janie Westendorf, Curtains Up Costumes, Immediate Past President Linda Adams-Foat, Camelot Costumes, President Jacob and Crystal Locklar, Josette’s Diane Sheibley, Publications Manager Pat Coppock, Retired, and Lorraine Brown, Retired Kathy Dowd, Costume Holiday House Janine Caufield, Caufield’s Terri Greenberg, Halco Karen Grizzard, Main Street Party Station and Lorraine Brown, Retired TBA Jacob and Crystal Locklar, Josette’s Janie Westendorf, Curtains Up Costumes, Immediate Past President Dorothy Shadrick, Executive Director Kathy Dowd, Costume Holiday House Elizabeth Galbraith, Costume Gallery-Newport *indicates end of current term NCA NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Visit www.costumers.org and click on the link! 2 Dorothy Shadrick, Executive Director 6000 E. Evans Ave. 3-205 Denver, CO 80222 800-NCA-1321 • Fax 303-758-9616 [email protected] • [email protected] The Costumer • December 2013 The Costumer • December 2013 The Costumer • December 2013 I T’ S AL L ABO U T PERSP ECT IVE ALL ABOU SPECT ECTIVE We have survived another Halloween season. I hope you did well but, I have heard from many members that the numbers were not good. I read an article in a national newspaper that national Halloween sales revenue has fallen from $8 billion in 2012 to $7 billion in 2013. I can only guess at the reasons. Some blame it on the economy. Economic recovery varies greatly across the nation. Some blame the government and the recent shut down. Some credit the fact that Halloween was on a Thursday while still others blame the internet and temporary stores. I think all of these reasons have some validity to them. What can we do with this information? We have to put it into perspective. Several years ago my daughter lived in San Diego. I was relating an incident to her over the phone. My husband, Merlyn, had hit a deer and totaled his van. He was not hurt, but he was 40 miles away from home. I ended with, “Well, at least I got to go to Wisconsin and he will get a new vehicle out of it.” She just laughed and said, “Oh Mom, you and your Midwest Tragic Optimism.” I look back on this statement and I realize that I often try to find something good that comes out of every situation. This, too, is a form of perspective. We as business owners need to stop and take a look at what is really important. Can we pay our vendors and employees? Can we pay our rent or mortgage? Can we feed our family? Can we pay our utilities and insurance? Can we save something this year? Can we set aside something for retirement? These are all very important things that need our attention. How can we do this in the economic climate that surrounds so many of us? The answer may be This Issue’s Advertisers Alan Sloane & Co. ............................................................... 20 Bauer Pacific........................................................................... 11 Caufield’s ................................................................................ 23 Dharma Trading .................................................................... 4 Disguise .................................................................................. 6 Forum Novelties .................................................................... 15 Fun World ................................ Inside Front & Back Covers Halco ...................................................................................... 3 Halloween & Party Expo ..................................................... 9 Junk for Joy ......................................................................... 23 Peter Alan .............................................................................. 14 Rubies ........................................................ Outside Back Cover Smiffy’s ................................................................................... 13 Such-a-Deal ........................................................................... 11 Sunnywood ............................................................................ 23 Tabi’s Characters ................................................................... 22 President’s Letter diversification. Look into different aspects of your business that may mesh well with something else. Maybe you could add balloons or party supplies. If you don’t do theater, maybe you should look into adding that avenue to increase your sales year round. You could look into adding tuxedo and bridal event rentals. Event planning may be a perfect fit for your store. You could include dancewear in your inventory. Some can add custom sewing and alterations. The possibilities are out there and now may be the time to look into ways of diversifying your business. We need to put all this information into perspective. We need to focus on what is really important. Yes, running a successful business is important, but is it more important than your family, your health, your peace of mind? Look around you and focus on the laughter of children, the vastness of the ocean, and the tranquility of a lush forest. Take a good long look at what you will leave behind as a legacy. We are building that legacy right now by how we are handling this downturn in our industry. Our children and grandchildren are watching us. Will they see us fall apart or take the bull by the horns and hang on until the economic tide turns? Will they see us as an anything-for-a-buck type of person, or someone that will take lemons and make lemonade? The choice is yours; it is a matter of perspective. Linda Adams-Foat National Costumers Association Camelot Costumes, Freeport, Illinois The Costumer • December 2013 5 Organization, Member, Industry News Some of these items have appeared in the weekly e-contact, but bear republishing here for the benefit of the entire membership. WI TH HAL LOWE EN A SUC CE SS, H&P ALL WEE UCCE CESS E XPO PREPAR ES FOR ANO TH E R ARE NOT G REA T SHO W EAT HOW (Houston) – Halloween may celebrate the undead, like zombies and ghosts. But sales related to the popular holiday are very much alive. In 2013, more than 158 million people celebrated Halloween, with the average reveler spending more than $75 on their festivities. Total Halloween spending in the United States alone topped out just under $7 billion, with considerable growth in other countries, such as the United Kingdom, which saw a 12 percent increase in spending over the previous year. The party mood doesn’t stop at Halloween either; it is gaining growth year round, with costumed obstacle runs and themed parties more popular than ever. The number-one global show for the Halloween, Costume and Party Industry is also very much alive. Thousands of attendees from more than 63 countries worldwide will descend on the George R. Brown Convention Center for the Halloween & Party Expo, which will be in Houston for a sixth year in 2014 before heading to New Orleans in 2015. Eightyfive percent of the 600,000 square foot show floor is currently reserved by hundreds of eager exhibitors. “If you’re in the party business, or if you’re in the Halloween business, you must attend this show,” says exhibitor Marie LaCentra with Forum Novelties/Creative Products. Manufacturers of Halloween products in particular have an extra incentive to attend the 2014 show: HAuNTcon, a Haunted Attractions tradeshow and conference created by Haunters, for Haunters, is co-locating within the George R. Brown Convention Center during the same dates as the Expo. “It’s not Halloween without a little haunting; 6 8 The The TheCostumer Costumer Costumer • •• December December February 2013 2013 2013 we think that’s a vital segment to support,” said Jonathan Erwin of the Halloween & Party Expo. “The H&P Expo is the international event for Halloween, Costume and Party vendors,” explained Leonard Pickel, HAuNTcon coordinator and Haunt industry expert. “It was a natural move to co-locate our show to the same city so we could offer our attendees the opportunity to see new products and services featured only at this exhibition.” Each show will operate separately with its own requirements, but attendees and exhibitors are encouraged to attend both for a richer experience. But the Halloween & Party Expo and HAuNTcon are well-known for far more than simply their show floors. Both shows offer a variety of events and activities designed to educate and entertain attendees, including more than 20 hours of educational seminars at the Expo and more than 40 hours at HAuNTcon. The Expo’s famous Halloween Costume Style Show also returns in 2014 with 100 costumes presented in an extravagant runway production at the close of the first evening. Attendance is free to all Expo attendees and includes free beer and wine throughout the show. HAuNTcon takes over afterwards, with their annual Costume Ball. Attendees won’t want to miss this lavish event, with barbecue buffet, complimentary beer, prizes, photos and all-night entertainment, all while dressed to the nines in costumed regalia or evening attire. Visit www.HalloweenPartyExpo.com or www.HAuNTcon.com for ticket information, schedules and more, such as details on the Pet Costume Shows presented by the Expo and Haunt Tours presented by HAuNTcon. As always, registration for the Halloween & Party Expo is free, but documentation of industry involvement is required. Don’t miss THE show for the industry, January 25-28, 2014 in Houston, Texas. Visit www.HalloweenPartyExpo.com to view the floorplan, create a customized expo schedule, request appointments, book hotels/travel and register to attend. C OST UME GAL LERY-NEWPOR T OSTUME ALL WPORT S PONSOR S A FIRST PLA CE W INNE R PONSORS NNER A T T HE W OR LD BEAR D AND ORL EARD M OUST A CH E C HAMP IONSH USTA CHE HAMPIONSH IONSHIIPS, 2013 Beard team USA brought home 9 trophies at the World Beard and Moustache Championships held in LeinfeldenEchterdingen, Germany on November 2 nd. Costume Gallery-Newport is the costume sponsor for Patrick Fette, a young Louisville, Kentucky, man. Patrick won first place in the English Moustache division. Patrick is a graduate of St. Henry District High School and a native of Erlanger, Kentucky. He began competing in 2012 after taking 15 months to grow his foot-long moustache. Patrick was inspired by his love of Civil War history. That love of history led him to Costume Gallery-Newport where Patrick has chosen period costumes created to enhance his look for the various beard and moustache contests in which he has competed. Patrick is a member of the Derby City Whisker Club as well as Beard Team USA. His first competition was the 2012 East Coast Beard and Moustache Championship in Philadelphia. That was also the first time he appeared wearing period attire created by the Costume GalleryNewport. He has since competed in more than 12 local and national competitions continued ... continued... Invest in your Profession! As business owners, you all analyze very carefully your expenses and the “bang” you get for your buck. As NCA members, you are currently receiving your dues renewal statements, and we encourage each of you not to hesitate in sending in your 2014 dues. The costume industry is a viable, energetic, enthusiastic profession – let’s keep it moving forward! Here is a list of the benefits identified in your dues renewal notice: · Buyers Group Discounts – Receive hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars in discounts from purchasing from NCA Buyers Group members; · Nationwide website store location services; · Networking with your peers to acquire new techniques to save you time and money; · Weekly eContact – tips and information for your business in your email box every week; · Opportunity for sub-renting from other members to assure your customers that you can satisfy all their costuming needs; · Listing in the annual Membership Directory, distributed to all NCA members; · The Costumer magazine subscription. Here are some thoughts on the intangible benefits to being a part of this dynamic organization: · Showcasing the creativity of members and utilizing others’ designs in y our market; · Disseminating information into the marketplace about the benefits of year-round shops that provide outstanding individualism in their costume designs; · Learning how other stores just like yours are handling current topics that affect your business, too, such as social media, marketing, temporary hiring, disaster planning and coping, and so much more; · Utilizing members’ creativity to enhance the arts throughout the world; · Helping students be true professionals in costume design. Let’s keep growing these lists to assure a vibrant future for the costume industry and the association that carries the voice of the professional costumer to the marketplace. RENEW TODAY! (2014 member renewals are due December 31.) Contact the NCA office with questions, or if you don’t receive your renewal packet, by phone at 800NCA-1321, or by email at [email protected]. Since CA H ome O ff ice St aff Sincerr ely ly,, The N NC Home Off ffice Staff The The Costumer Costumer • • December December 2013 2013 7 Organization, Member, Industry News continued ... continued... and served as a guest judge in Cincinnati. Patrick wore Costume GalleryNewport costumes in the National Beard and Moustache Championships in Las Vegas in 2012 and New Orleans in 2013. He placed first in Las Vegas in the English Moustache division. The English style moustache is pulled out tight and straight f rom the face to full length. He tied for first place in New Orleans and took second in a runoff. Patrick has been costumed in an oldfashioned swimsuit, an 1800s cutaway, and a variety of other period fashions chosen from Costume Galler y-Newport. For his first international competition in Germany, Patrick chose to wear an English morning suit. Joy and Elizabeth SAVE THE DATES Winter Board Meeting Bay St. Louis, Mississippi February 21-22, 2014 National Convention Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis, Mississippi July 11-15, 2014 Galbraith, owners of Costume Galler yNewport, supplied his costume as a sponsorship. Costume Gallery-Newport would like to congratulate Patrick Fette on his first place international win. They look forward to helping him with appropriate attire for any upcoming contests. LANDE S COST UME S BY RACH EL ANDES OSTUME UMES CHE C L OSI NG OSING After 103 years of providing quality costumes to Indianapolis and the world, Landes Costumes by Rachel was sad to announce they closed their doors on November 30, 2013. They have had many wonderful customers and made many friends over the years, and they will miss them all, but retirement beckons. “We’ve always said, ‘No one gets a costume for a depressing reason.’ We want to thank everyone who has come through our doors looking for fun. This has been the most enjoyable business to be in and a part of us will miss it, but part of us will NOT miss doing 8 loads of laundry a day!” They wish to thank everyone in the NCA for all of the support, the stories, and for sharing their fun with them. “To the people we’ve costumed for stage and screen, for our Santa and North Pole friends, the Easter Bunnies, Leprechauns, the wedding parties, masqueraders, mascots, living history providers, revelers, fund raisers, gamers, artists, clowns, magicians and fun lovers…we will miss seeing you. We will think of you fondly.” -Everyone at LCBR I N MEMOR IAM MORIAM It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Rosalie Abisgnio. As many of you know, Rosalie was Howard Beige’s, (of Rubies Costume Company) assistant for over 15 years. Rosalie will be missed by all of us that knew her. Our hearts go out to fellow NCA member, Rubies Costume Company and to Rosalie’s family. I N MEMOR IAM MORIAM Former NCA President Clay Yancy passed away Saturday, November 9, 2013. Condolences can be sent to his wife Shelia at: 10625 Baton Rouge Pl., Northridge, CA 91326. A formal obituary will follow, watch your econtacts. Like the NCA on Facebook! Go to www.costumers.org and look for the Facebook link at the bottom of the page! Summer on the Gulf! Greetings to all fellow NCA members from the Locklar family! We hope you all had a profitable Halloween and are recovering after the Halloween rush. For our family, the week after Halloween is when we begin thinking about vacations for the following year. There is just something about two months of non-stop work that brings the vacation bug around. Allow me to take this time to personally invite you to the 2014 National Costumers Association Convention, July 11-15, that will be held down here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Our shop, Josette’s Inc., is located in Biloxi, Mississippi, and our host resort, the Hollywood Casino and Resort in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi are equidistant from the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT). Situated only minutes away from the white sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, the Hollywood Casino and Resort offers unique amenities for you to enjoy. The resort itself is movie-themed, and the common areas in the lobbies, casinos, buffet, and restaurants are all decorated as such. All rooms in the hotel are non-smoking and are equipped with Wi-Fi. On the grounds, you will find a mammoth swimming pool as well as a golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, himself. We are working diligently to ensure that this convention is family-friendly with a variety of activities suitable for children of all ages. This will be a great opportunity for your entire family to enjoy the food, fun, and ambience of the South. We look forward to seeing you at our opening night party, themed “Old South, New South”. – Crystal and Jacob Locklar 8 The The Costumer Costumer • • December December 2013 2013 The Costumer • December 2013 MEMBER PROFILE Junk for Joy Burbank, California • Joined NCA in 1982 By Debbie Lyn Owens Editor’s note: I interviewed Ron on the phone and then sent him some questions for him and Seabrook to answer. Talking to Ron is always a pleasure and he tells great stories. I asked him about beginning their business and how they chose the name. He “pinched” the name Junk City from a shop in London. Originally, in 1976, they sold knick knack and “rags” in a shop on Sunset Blvd in Los Angeles. People frequently called him about odd things to sell. One person was cutting up dresses and had about 150 of them. They were big and Ron paid $1 each. He put them on a rack in the window for $3 each. Another guy called him about some shoes he had in the loft area of his front window. They were brand new ladies’ shoes, still in their boxes, size 9 and up. He sold them to Ron “for a song” and Ron put them in the window for $3 a pair. Ron and Seabrook advertised in the local paper using “junk for architects, baker dancers”, etc. through all the professions or people they could think of to mention. Then they did a series of “junk for attics, basements”, etc. for places people could use their product. Ron told his father, Les, about this ad campaign and Les suggested “junk” for emotions and when he got to Joy, Ron knew he had the right name, and “Junk for Joy” was born. Ron moved to a new location in Burbank, California, and opened on October 1st not too sure what Halloween might bring for his business. He noticed a lot of guys buying shoes and dresses to go to the bars to sing and dance. They had a really good opening which Ron attributes to “dumb luck”. Junk for Joy, and Ron and Seabrook Ede, are a fixture in the NCA and we have all benefitted from knowing them and doing business with them. After 37 years, they are now ready to move on to another phase of their lives. I wish them the very best in their retirement and hope to see them on one of their road trips. 10 W hat ma de yyour our business successful? made “We started off with dumb luck in 1976. Waiting for retail customers was unproductive, so we decided to try wholesaling to help with cash flow. Our first trade show was the 1980 ASD show in Las Vegas. Since we were newcomers, we were stuck in the back where we met Larry, from Cincinnati and fresh out of Business College, who was selling dreck, schemata, and dead stock that filled a 5-6 story building. After years of rag house ragging and warehouses and old boy networks and truck loads of zippers at 2 cents each, we are still good friends with Larry today.” W hat did yyou ou br ing to the business? bring “First it was kimonos directly imported from Japan which we traded for vintage and dead stock with Japanese buyers in the late 70s through the mid-80s. Helen Aune of Phoenix got wind of them and came bounding into our place pointing and ordering us around until she had quite a pile of them – all the time touting the NCA and how we should join. Our first experience was an area meeting aboard the Queen Mary! Our first convention was in Wilmington, Delaware, in 1982. After that it was clear that our vintage, dead stock, and accessories would take us into the costume industry, now that we also had 6-7 retail Halloweens under our belts and ‘got the message’.” Ho w hav ou oovver co me obsta How havee yyou erco come obstacc les? “The biggest and most sudden shock to the Junk for Joy system occurred in Denver at the 2004 NCA convention where Seabrook had a near fatal brain hemorrhage. Her birthday was surgery day – what a gift by an extremely confident and skilled medical team. Then as I’ve never witnessed before or after, an amazing pull together by the NCA members and Board members to create a “Seabrook Fund” at the auction to raise enough funds for this haplessuninsured-yours-truly to use it specifically for the ambulances – both land and air. So after all this, there was yet another surprise – an anonymous (to this day) party paid our hotel bill. Since then Seabrook has not driven, so our being in two places at once – her at the store and me at the barn – had to come to a virtual end and productivity slowed down. We are used to it now, however, and having learnt not to bust a gut, keep our cool, and plug along has been good therapy for both of us.” Discuss yyour our lo w tec h appr oa keting low tech approa oacch to sales and mar marketing keting.. “I don’t remember approaching low tech – it was always The Costumer • December 2013 there. Approaching high tech did not appeal. By the time I might one finger type, buy, and learn the thing, put up something that was going to sell out anyway and then do it all again, I’d drown in my own dizziness!” [To this day, Ron does not use e-mail. –Ed.] W hat pr o mpted the decisio n to sel decision selll the business and pro building? “Back in 1996 this bloke came into the store and said the landlord wanted to sell and did we want to buy? What a shock! As it happened it was just after a really good ASD show and Chicago Halloween show. So I said, ‘these orders will pay for the deposit’ – so he got to work – worked his butt off –and got us the building. Fast forward to 2013 and he shows up several times insisting he has a buyer for the building. I retort ‘What am I going to do with all this stuff? I’m not moving and I’m not giving it away!’ So he comes back and says he has a buyer for both the business and the building and do we know anyone who might want to buy in too. So, some of our contacts wrote offers and the red tape is still being unrolled.” W hat ar our plans ffor or the next cchapter hapter in yyour our liv es? aree yyour lives? “The next thing after all this - probably at the end of the year, is to sleep in for a few days and then tackle the barn. The barn has not been organized since 2004 and has since had a lean-to added and after that a lean-to onto the lean-to. When we ran out of lean-to area, we erected some long term tents, so our yard (2/3 of an acre) is a cacophony of tobacco road structures that has to be sorted out – thus our retirement is really from retail and trade shows. We will be in Biloxi for convention with plenty of odd lot stuff only NCA members would find a use for and a road trip thereafter.” Ron’s mother has just entered an aged care facility so a trip or two to his native Australia will be a must. “As we are hoping our business will carry on to the next plateau by new owners, we will encourage participation in the Houston show. If that happens and if they insist on our help, we will go there to point at stuff and to introduce – but to set up and break down!? Humph!!” The Costumer • December 2013 11 BUSINESS Why Blogging Helps Your Costume Business By Shari McConahay As costumers, we love to talk about our businesses and to make it live on the internet for all to see. So that is the our costumes, right? Blogging about your business and your first obstacle out of the way, it isn’t complicated, it is quite an be a costumes can be just as simple as that. Blogging ccan simple. The second obstacle is consistency. I am giving you big bo nus ffor or yyour our business, helping yyou ou gain exposur exposuree bonus a pass on that right now. Do not let the pressure of keeping for yyour our stor our w ebsite storee, yyour website ebsite,, up a blog get in the way of or both. I am a writer and it blogging! That is probably one A CCORDING TO DICTIONARY . COM : comes pretty naturally to me, of the major hurdles to blog [blawg, blog] so I understand it might be a overcome – “do I have to do it noun a website containing the writer’s or struggle for some of you. That every hour? Every day? Every group of writers’ own experiences, is why I am here to help you week?”. Do not worry about observations, opinions, etc., and often with ideas for blogging and to blogging daily, weekly, or even having images and links to other websites. break it down and show you monthly. We are all busy how simple and easy it can be. costumers, running businesses verb (used without object) to maintain or But why should you blog? and keeping up with a million add new entries to a blog. Blogging is ffrree and yyour our other things. Write when you business ccan an rreap eap the benef its benefits can. Giving yourself that that make the time yyou ou spend w el or th it. wrriting w wel elll w wor orth freedom will actually help you write more often. Instead of making it a requirement, take a deep breath and try some of SET TING UP YO UR BLO G these ideas: Write do wn ideas, or eevven whole posts while There are two main blogging platforms that are both down mobile free and easy to use: Blogger.com from Google, and mobile. Most of us have smartphones or tablets. If you are WordPress.com. They both are easy to set up and have a travelling (and not doing the driving) that is often a perfect variety of different colors or themes available. You can also opportunity to write. Both Blogger and Word Press both have them customized by a professional if you wanted to have mobile apps, so you can post right from your phone or get fancy. Both Blogger and WordPress blogs can be tablet/iPad, if you have one. At the very least, keep ideas for integrated into your website as well so that instead of posts on your phone, in a Word document on your blogging under the blog domain, it can be something like computer, or even in a spiral bound notebook in your www.blog.yourwebsite.com. This is a great idea because it briefcase. Blog posts do not hav ng havee to be lo long ng. Most blog means that each time you post a blog, you are adding new posts should be somewhere in the neighborhood of 250 – and fresh content to your website and the search engines 500 words. However, they do not all have to be that long at really like that. Once you have your blog set up with the all. Did you finish an amazing costume? Post a picture of it! colors and the theme, you can always change it later or for Have a customer in the store that tried something on and the seasons. I would just suggest that if you do change it seasonally, just keep your logo and the branding the same so doesn’t mind having it posted? Just do it! Your blog can be a mix of micro blogs and longer posts. You can post just a that your readers and customers still recognize it and they picture and say a few sentences about it, and Voila! Post don’t think they clicked over to the wrong place. done! G ETT ING STAR Ask yyour our staff to w T ED WI TH YO UR BLO G ART WIT wrr ite posts posts. Employees can The actual writing of a blog post (compare it to writing contribute to your blog; you can even give them a weekly a column in the newspaper) is just as simple and almost the column. Perhaps assign one employee each week to writing same thing as writing a Word document. It has many of the the blog entries. If you have staff that is idle during times of same features that Word does. It allows you to change the the day in between customers, phone calls, or projects, have color and fonts, use bold, italicize, or underline. They even them write something. G uest blogg ers bloggers ers. Open your blog up to guest have spell check. Once you are done writing, it is one click 12 The Costumer • December 2013 bloggers. Ask colleagues, thespians, or even drama teachers if they would like to contribute to your blog. Even local business people or local celebrities could blog about their favorite costuming stories, should they have any. This adds not only new content to your blog, but a fresh perspective and new ideas. If you do not know anyone that can guest blog, putting an invitation for guest posts on your blog will help you find leads. You can also ask bloggers that you like reading for an article. Asking to re-publish content isn’t out of the question either. Just be sure to ask permission and post credit where credit is due. Instea d of being a salesman. . . . Your blog is not Instead necessarily a sales tool. There is no need for every post to be about something you sell, that is what your website or store front is for. However, there is nothing wrong with putting a special blog reader’s coupon on your blog. Instead of strictly selling your products on your blog, posts can be about holidays, most popular costumes, interesting or unique costume ideas, trends, theater, historical costuming, safety tips, community events in your area, personal profiles or “little known facts” about your employees and store owners, or just about your business in general. so just convert them into a blog post. When you write about what interests you, it flows easily and is done in a flash. Combining other things you love with costumes and writing about it will give you a wealth of ideas. Regardless of the size of your blog post, it should always have at least one picture in it to make it visually appealing and should be something that your customers and readers are interested in. W HY SHO UL D YO U H AVE A BLO G I N TH E HOUL ULD FIRST PLACE? Having a blog is not just another thing to do to take up your precious time. The purpose for your blog is to add fresh content to your website. Even if you do not sell online, a website (and the blog on it) can help direct local customers to your store, so don’t count yourself out if you are not selling online. Why do you need fresh content to your website? Nowadays the search engines rank websites according to content that will help direct searchers to what they are looking for. If you write about “ideas for couples’ costumes”, when someone searches that same or similar continued ... continued... Tr y so me of these blog ideas: some • W hat w er wer eree the top 5 requests from customers this week? • Do yyou ou see a ne w costume or fashion trend new emerging? •P ost a sur Post survvey or trivia. • Ask questio ns questions ns; get readers to interact with you. Then your next post can be the answers to the questions. • Take a pictur picturee of your window display and talk about it. Ask customers what they would like to see next time. • W h y rrenting enting a costume is better than buying a costume. (Or vice versa.) •S wap out posts with other local businesses, gain Swap exposure while making strong business connections. • Pop Cultur Culturee . I listed this as a separate category from the list above because it is so broad, it is worthy of its own listing. Our businesses and costumes really lend themselves to a strong pop culture connection. What are the water cooler topics? What is trending on Twitter? If they relate to costumes, theater, makeup, or anything you sell, write about it! What did you think of the Miley Cyrus twerking incident? What costumes are featured in this month’s movie releases? What are the top plays on Broadway right now? What type of makeup tricks do the girls on Dancing with the Stars use? Did you see Project Runway last night? These are just a handful of the many ideas you see daily. It is probably easy for you to talk about any of these ideas, The Costumer • December 2013 13 Blogging, continued Grim Reapers is proud to announce that Peter-Alan, Inc. has reached an agreement for the sale of its assets to Grim Reapers as of October 31, 2013. Under new ownership, the business will continue to operate under the Peter Alan trade name and bring you the same quality costumes and accessories at affordable pricing. The transitioning of all of Peter Alan’s systems (phone, e-mail and web site) continues, but we already have 100% of Peter Alan’s inventory and we are prepared to accept orders at this time. We have also moved forward with putting together a new catalog and price list for 2014, which we hope to have ready for the Halloween & Party Expo in Houston. Peter Alan will continue to offer many of the same funny and quirky costume designs, as well as ornate wings and high quality wigs, which will all go into production in early 2014. However, we will also be putting together an extensive closeout list of costumes, accessories and party supplies via our “Name Your Discount” offer. All offers will be considered! Offer good through 2013, or while supplies last. phrase on Google or Bing, your post is likely to come up and direct people to your store. If you are not selling online, then you might want to write about “things to do [in your city] for Halloween”. Why else should you blog? • Blogging helps increase your brand. • The extra exposure from blogging can help potential customers learn about your business and can increase sales. • A blog establishes you as an authority. Just think of the variety of topics you are an expert in. Let the search engines and the general public know that you are an expert in costuming, costume design, sewing, pattern making, Blogging is free and your business can reap the benefits that make the time you spend writing well worth it. makeup, theater, retail, customer service, movies, history, etc., etc., etc.!! • Blogging creates word-of-mouth publicity. Picture this: someone reads your blog and likes it. They tell a friend about it. They like it. They tell a friend. That friend puts a link on their Facebook page to it because they find it so interesting…. • Blogging can drive traffic to your website, which can lead people to your brick and mortar store. In the above example, when friends and friends of friends read your blog, or post it on Facebook, they are now on your website, and might be interested in looking around the other pages on the site while they’re there. Shari McConahay grew up in the costume industry in her family’s store, Annie’s Costume and Magic in Florida. In 1994 she started selling their products online and in 2000, they launched Extreme Halloween. Since then, Shari and her husband Myke launched the new generation of their business and Metamorphic eCommerce, Inc. is the new home to their websites including AnniesCostumes.com, StageandTheaterMakeup.com, and SantaSuits.com. Shari is also the founder of her own online marketing consulting business, The Internet Fairy, Inc. Contact me with any questions: Jon St. Onge [email protected] 571-215-6539 14 The Costumer • December 2013 The Costumer • December 2013 15 TRENDS Come Out and CosPlay By Sheila S. Hudson Photos by Tim Hudson Every Labor Day weekend, cars, vans, trucks, and vehicles of every ilk arrive in Atlanta bearing out-of-thisworld passengers to Dragon Con. Dragon Con, with some 57,000 attendees, is the biggest science fiction and fantasy convention in the South. Like alien Beverly hillbillies, the con-goers dominate five hotels, the AmericasMart, Peachtree Street, as well as one night at the Georgia Aquarium and one evening at the Atlanta Braves Stadium. In a CNN review by Ann Hoevel (8/30/13), John Mayes remarked, “You walk into a hotel, you see a Klingon high fiving Spider-Man and talking to Poison Ivy. It’s a great shock. It’s something you won’t see anywhere else in the world.” That, my friend, is CosPlay at its best. CosPlay – short for “costume play” – is an activity in which participants wear costumes and accessories to represent a specific character or idea from a work of fiction. Participants role play or recreate a personality from one of the many genres represented at Dragon Con. Dragon Con’s longevity attracts the top costumers of the region. Lee Cox has lent his expertise in directing the costume track for years. He includes not only fashion but props, makeup, and tips on how to do it yourself. This year Roy Wooley and R.J. Haddy from Face Off held workshops on everything from fangs and dental distortions to make up concepts. Friday’s costume contest winners were judged by professional costumers in their field. Frank Puricelli, as the Steampunk Iron Gentleman (below), won “Best Use of Tech” and “Best Journeyman” awards. Mr. Puricelli used LED components, lightweight metals, and of course, steam, in his creation that took six months to build. Stephen Taylor won the “Best Prop” award with his Sheila Hudson is a freelance journalist based in Athens, Georgia. Her primary areas of expertise include humor, travel, inspiration, and mentoring. Her work has been featured in numerous publications from newspapers to anthologies, and her “Bright Ideas” columns are currently featured on the Southeastern Writers Association website and on The Infinite Writer. Ms. Hudson has long been an admirer of the handiwork of costumers, at events such as Comic*Con, Dragon*Con, and Renaissance festivals, and looks forward to continuing to contribute to The Costumer. 16 The Costumer • December 2013 portrayal of North, Rise of the Guardians (left) complete with “Naughty” and “Nice” tattoos on his arms. His costume consisted of an authentic snow white beard flowing over his burgundy velvet tunic trimmed in black fur. At his side was a broadsword of his own design. But perhaps the most overwhelming recreation was Tawnya Hicks-Letts’ entry, Skeksil of the Skesis (below) from the Dark Crystal movie, which won “Best Overall.” She created the skeksis with a ruck sack frame draped with foam. Next layer was made of latex cut into shellshaped pieces and carefully adhered. “The detail on the front of the shell was the most difficult,” Ms. Letts commented. After fashioning the back, the skeksis shell was touched up with paint and draped with robes fashioned from velvet panels, brocade, and lace aged with staining methods. Fingers, toes, and arms were hardened latex. Toe claws were sculpted and adhered to Crocs©. The skeksis race combined elements of avian and reptile species. Their heads are vulture-like containing curved fangs. They have two pairs of arms but only one pair is functional. The second set is withered. Ms. Letts’ costume ingeniously fashioned the wearer’s head within the hump of the skeksis’ back enabling him to stand erect. And as an added benefit, the complete costume weighs only 10 pounds. Ms. Hicks-Letts is no costuming novice. Her velociraptor creation for Dragon Con 2011 took home awards for excellence. The interest in CosPlay surged as workshop attendees learned about molding, pattern making, wing crafting, and a plethora of subjects related to the world of costume. So ready or not, let’s CosPlay. The Costumer • December 2013 17 theater Costuming Theater – Is it for You? By Debbie Lyn Owens I sent an e-mail to some of our members that I knew costumed theater as a part of their business structure. Thank you to those of you who were able to respond. If you received a survey and did not have time to respond, but still want to, please do. If your business includes theater costuming, please respond to me to join the conversation. Send me an e-mail at [email protected] or call me at 800-622-1889. Most of the survey consisted of multiple choices and there were three other questions to answer. The results of the poll questions are listed as a tally and I have included many of the other comments. Eight stores, including mine, are represented in the results. Maybe this information can help you decide if you want to pursue a different direction in your business. Perhaps we will continue this conversation in other issues and consider sharing the information in an education session at convention. What type of theater productions do you costume? Community 75%; School 88%; Professional 63%; Opera 38%; Musical Theater 88%; Children 63% Do you ship your shows? Always 0; Never 13%; Some shows 75% “Some shows, if the show is not in the area. We have customers pick them up if they can.” – Cindy Catanese, Disguises, LLC, Lakewood, Colorado Will you travel to costume a production? Never 0; 1-3 miles 13%; 10-30 miles 25%; 100-300 miles 13%; To Never land and back 25% What percentage of your business is theater costuming? 10% or less 13%; 14% 13%; 20% 38%; 51% 13% Do you provide costumes for the whole cast? Always 13%; Sometimes 38%; Never 0; Depends on the budget 75%. “We can, but often they rent costumes for leads and the balance of the cast gets their own.” – Bernice and Ron Ferraro, Fantasy Festival Costume, Algonquin, Illinois “Rates are cheaper if we do the whole cast.” – Cindy Catanese, Disguises, LLC, Lakewood, Colorado “We work within the budget, offer advice for schools with limited funds, work as a consultant.” – Liz Galbraith, Costume Gallery-Newport, Newport, Kentucky “We do everything from pieces and parts to entire shows, depending on the group’s budget and what they already have in their stock.” – Crystal Locklar, Josette’s, Biloxi, Mississippi Do you let production costumers “pull” things from your inventory? Never 13%; Sometimes 63%; Depends on the organization 13% “We discourage it for large shows. We begin the search by saying that some things are not permitted to go out to theatrical productions.” – Cindy Catanese, Disguises, LLC, Lakewood, Colorado “Some directors and designers know our stock and their show. We offer a discount in this case.” – Liz Galbraith, Costume Gallery-Newport, Newport, Kentucky “I sometimes allow the show designer to pull things for their show, but their theatre rate is based on me pulling the show from measurements, so I charge more if they do that. I don’t mind meeting with them to let them pull a few things to give me an idea of the look they want to achieve, but if they want to pull the whole show and take up an entire day of my time, they pay the regular rental rate.” – Crystal Locklar, Josette’s, Biloxi, Mississippi 18 The Costumer • December 2013 What is the best thing about theater costuming? “Teachers and directors appreciate well-made costumes and good customer service helping them and their casts get wardrobe for their shows. When we work with the cast members in the store, it’s wonderful to see how they go into character once we put a costume on them.” – Judy Smith, Rose Costumes, Denton, Texas “Some costumes are too difficult for amateurs to make and time runs out, so we become “life savers” Not too much “Best thing” anymore.” – Bernice and Ron Ferraro, Fantasy Festival Costume, Algonquin, Illinois “We are unique and do not have much competition in our area. It is creative and fun if you like theatre.” – Cindy Catanese, Disguises, LLC, Lakewood, Colorado “The best thing is the collaboration in creating a new show and the excitement of seeing all the sides coming together on stage.” – Liz Galbraith, Costume Gallery-Newport, Newport, Kentucky “Being creative and interplay with other creatives. We are getting much more business for tours and building entire shows for a client so it will be interesting to see where that goes. That currently falls under production for us because the client designs it and we build it and then they own it.” – Wendy Goldstein, Costume Specialists, Inc, Columbus, Ohio “The best thing about costuming for theatre is that I get to paint the color canvas of a show with my costumes. Acting will take a show only so far.” – Crystal Locklar, Josette’s, Biloxi, Mississippi What is the worst thing about theater costuming? “Junior and high school students are not respectful of their costumes, treating them poorly. They come back damaged and smell terrible; of course this is what we are left to deal with.” – Judy Smith, Rose Costumes, Denton, Texas “People’s sizes change from production to production, and director’s color choices. Very worst thing is that some groups expect us to subsidize their production since we have the goods and they have a very small budget!” – Bernice and Ron Ferraro, Fantasy Festival Costume, Algonquin, Illinois “Directors are inconsistent. Some are understanding, appreciative, and flexible. Others think their show should be costumed just like Broadway but on a shoestring budget. Directors sometimes let parents and students get involved in their costumes. And it is very difficult to charge high prices to schools.” – Cindy Catanese, Disguises, LLC, Lakewood, Colorado “They always think we have everything sitting and waiting for them in the right color and size. We don’t do anything except their show!” – Wendy Goldstein, Costume Specialists, Inc, Columbus, Ohio “The worst thing about costuming theatre is when a director asks for costuming choices that you know and explain ahead of time that they are inappropriate or just won’t look right on people the sizes they are given, and when you give it to them at their insistence anyway, they are unhappy and blame you for it, even though they hand-picked what they thought they wanted.” – Crystal Locklar, Josette’s, Biloxi, Mississippi The Costumer • December 2013 19 costuming 50 Years of Doctor WhoCostuming By Jean Martin and Christopher Erickson “Doctor Who” is a classic, long-running British science fiction show that began in 1963 about a time-traveling alien who regenerates, has adventures, saves the universe and has affection for the human race. “Doctor Who” has become even more popular since its re-launch in 2005, and you can see fans in costumes from its 50-year run at numerous conventions and events. Examples of places you can go to wear these costumes are “Doctor Who” conventions such as Gallifrey One in Los Angeles, Chicago TARDIS, Hurricane Who in Florida and L.I. Who in New York. Regular science fiction, fantasy, comic book and pop culture conventions are also good places to go for “Doctor Who” costuming especially when some of the actors in the show are guests. The Doctor has 20 also been sighted at Renaissance Faires in California and The Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco. There have also been events inspired by “Doctor Who” such as the recent PEERS The Doctor Dances Ball, which was set during the London Blitz. Lastly, fans can just get together and party to watch the episodes in costumes. For the 50th anniversary simulcast screening in movie theatres last November 23, some attendees came in costume. With 50 years of episodes to choose from, fans have a wealth of costume inspirations from the 11 Doctors (so far) who mostly wear suits that are either based on various time periods or are whimsical creations. As for the Doctors’ companions, who are mostly female, their costumes generally reflect the decades when their episodes were filmed. Since some of the Doctors’ and most of the companions’ costumes are based on regular clothing from the past five decades, they are fairly easy to put together using existing patterns if you sew, new items from online or brick-and-mortar stores or vintage items from thrift stores. Sometimes, even a deceptively simple ensemble can be difficult to recreate as the exact pieces are hard to find. But the important thing to remember is that as long as you achieve the overall look and your costume is recognizable as the character you are trying to portray, that is more than good enough. One trick to making your costume even more identifiable, and can add to the fun, is if you appear in costume at events with a group of people also in “Doctor Who” costumes or find them when you get there. For this article, we will be highlighting the costumes of each of the 11 Doctors and one female companion per Doctor. With the companions, we’ve picked some for their more iconic looks and some who wore something unique and memorable in particular episodes. Doctors: • First (William Hartnell) – The First Doctor wore a basic outfit with a vest, ribbon tie and frock coat, which reflected his cantankerous and grandfatherly nature • Second (Patrick Troughton) – The Second Doctor’s rumpled mourning coat, baggy pants and a bow tie pinned askew is generally referred to as the “space hobo” and complemented his buffoonish behavior • Third ( John Pertwee) – This Doctor had a preference The Costumer • December 2013 for dramatic short capes, velvet smoking jackets, colorful frilled shirts and ostentatious bow ties, enhancing his dapper playboy sense of style and James Bond-like orientation toward action • Fourth (Tom Baker) – A floppy fedora hat, an impossibly long multi-colored scarf, argyle-sweaters and overcoats were the fashion choices of the Bohemian-like Fourth Doctor • Fifth (Peter Davison) – An Edwardian cricketer’s outfit with a celery stalk on his jacket lapel brought out the sensitive and kind nature of this Doctor • Sixth (Colin Baker) – A patchwork coat of bright colors and tartan patterns, polka-dot cravat tie, green shoes with orange spats and yellow pants with blue pin striping matched the bombast and loud self-confidence of this incarnation of the Doctor • Seventh (Sylvester McCoy) – A colonial-style Panama hat, patterned yellow sweater vest, white or brown sport coat, two-tone shoes and bamboo umbrella (which later became orange, question mark-shaped) showed off this Doctor’s affability and underlying dark nature • Eighth (Paul McGann) – The dark green Victorian velvet frock coat and embroidered vest reflected the childlike enthusiasm and love of life displayed by this incarnation • Ninth (Christopher Eccleston) – The battered leather jacket and v-neck sweaters mirrored the extreme sadness and “live-for-the-moment” nature of this Doctor • Tenth (David Tennant) – A brown trench coat, pinstripe suit (brown or blue) and canvas high-top sneakers outlined the light-hearted tendencies but serious nature of this version • Eleventh (Matt Smith) – Bowties, suspenders and tweed jackets with elbow patches enhanced the youthful exuberance and wistful sadness shown by this Doctor The second doctor and Charles Dickens at the Dickens Fair. Photo by Christopher Erickson. Companions: • Barbara Wright ( Jacqueline Hill) – Barbara wore a vibrant orange and yellow feather tribal outfit for the episode “The Aztecs” where she was mistaken as a goddess • Zoe Heriot (Wendy Padbury) – Zoe wore a fantastic one-piece, figurehugging silver spacesuit in the episode “The Wheel in Space” • Sarah Jane Smith (Elisabeth Sladen) – Sarah Jane was epitome of the career girl from the 70s with her large lapel shirt, knitted vest, blazer and bell-bottom pants • Romana I (Mary Tamm) – Romana wore some lovely white flowing ensembles that looked like they came from either Princess Leia’s or Abba’s closets • Nyssa (Sarah Sutton) – Nyssa wore costumes that were a cross between a fairy and a Renaissance princess with rich velvets and colors and a delicate tiara • Peri Brown (Nicola Bryant) – the first American companion, Peri wore neon- and pastel-colored shirts and shorts that were ubiquitous during the 80s • Ace (Sophie Aldred) – tomboy teenager Ace sported a distinctive black bomber jacket with patches of real space flights (you can find these online) • Grace Holloway (Daphne Ashbrook) – another American, Daphne made a splash in a blue opera ball gown with a corset top and wide skirt • Rose Tyler (Billie Piper) – One of Rose’s memorable costumes is the one she wore in the twopart episode “The Empty Child/The Doctor Dances” where she has a Union Jack The Master, Grace, and the eighth doctor. shirt underneath a black Photo by Jean Martin. leather motorcycle and paired with regular jeans • Donna Noble (Catherine Tate) – Donna made a grand entrance into the “Doctor Who” universe as the “Runaway Bride” in a traditional white wedding dress complete with a tiara and veil • Amy Pond (Karen Gillan) – Amy is a typical young British girl with trendy jackets, sweaters, scarves, shorts, tights and boots, but in the “The Curse of the Black Spot,” she donned a pirate hat and coat and brandished a sword Of course, there are Madame de Pompadour and the 10th doctor. women who want to dress Photo by Christopher Erickson. The Costumer • December 2013 21 Doctor Who, continued up as female versions of the Doctor or straight-up male versions of the character. And there are also popular male companions such as Jamie McCrimmon, Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart, Adric, Captain Jack Harkness and Rory Williams. If you want to go elegant, you can do Gallifreyan Time Lords; if you want to be rugged you can do UNIT soldiers. Villains are also popular choices such as the Master. Guest historical figures like Winston Churchill, Queen Victoria, Cleopatra and Vincent Van Gogh are attention-getters. One major trend these past couple of years has been costuming as the TARDIS; either as the The ten doctors at Gallifrey One 2009. Photo by Jean Martin. time travel vehicle itself, as Idris (the female If you find people in your area who have done these personification of the TARDIS) or in TARDIS dresses. costumes, you can ask them how to make these or there are For those seeking more of a challenge, you can do also classes at various conventions. robots and alien creatures. For instance, there are the “Doctor Who” costuming has gone on for 50 years and Cybermen, the Daleks, the Ood, the Weeping Angels and seems likely to go on for years to come. Everyone is eagerly the Silurians. The robots and aliens require knowledge of materials construction, special effects makeup and sculpting. anticipating the yet-to-be-shown costume of the 12th Doctor (Peter Capaldi) who will be making his debut in this year’s Christmas episode and who will have his own season starting in 2014. Jean Martin is editor-in-chief, writer and photographer for Science Fiction/San Francisco (www.efanzines.com/SFSF/). She is also the SF Costume Design Examiner for Examiner.com (www.http://www.examiner.com/costume-design-1-in-sanfrancisco/jean-martin). She is involved in costuming/ cosplaying, dancing, singing and acting, and has won awards for costuming/cosplaying and as part of masquerade teams. Christopher Erickson is managing editor, writer and photographer for Science Fiction/San Francisco. He is also an experienced costumer who has won individual and group awards for costuming. Christopher is known as the Bay Area Doctor as he often portrays most of the Doctors and aims to do all of them. SAVE THE DATES Winter Board Meeting Bay St. Louis, Mississippi • February 21-22, 2014 National Convention Hollywood Casino • Bay St. Louis, Mississippi July 11-15, 2014 22 The Costumer • December 2013 The Costumer • December 2013 23 The National Costumers Association vendor members are vital to continued success of all our membership. Support our vendor members as they continue to support you. At the time of the printing of this publication, the vendor member list for 2014 is as follows: PLATINUM MEMBERS: Disguise Inc/Division of Jakks Pacific* • Forum Novelties, Inc* Peter Alan, Inc* • Rubie's Costume Co.* GOLD MEMBERS: Alexanders Costumes* • Caufields* • Halco* • Smiffy's/R.H. Smith and Sons* Sunnywood Inc.* • West Bay Inc.* SILVER MEMBERS: Bauer Pacific Imports* • Cinema Secrets Inc.* • Costume Culture by Franco* Delicious of NY* • Dreamgirl International* • Dress Up America* Eddies Trick and Novelty Inc.* • Ellie Shoes, Inc* • elope, Inc* Flashback & Freedom, Inc.* • Funny Fashion, Inc* • FunWorld, Div. Easter Unlimited* Garland Beauty Products, Inc.* • Ghoulish Productions/Caretas Rev S.A. de C.V* Goddessey LLC* • Graftobian Make-up Company* • Jacobson Hat Co. Inc* Just Pretend Kids* • Leg Avenue, Inc.* • Loftus International* • Mehron Inc.* Midnight Syndicate Soundtracks, div. Entity Productions Inc.* • Rasta Imposta * RG Costumes & Accessories* • Seasons USA Inc* • Starline LLC* Tabis Characters* • ThePirateDressing.com* • TM&A of Miami Trick or Treat Studios* • Underwraps Costumes* • Visual Effects Ind* Zagone Studios, LLC* * denotes a Buyers Group program in place for 2014. National Costumer Costumerss Association: endor Wher heree V Vendor endorss Ar Aree Member Memberss 24 The Costumer • December 2013 2014 BUYERS GROUP 2014 SUPPLIERS As of 12/1/13 Alexanders Costumes Bauer Pacific Imports Caufields Cinema Secrets Inc. Costume Culture by Franco Delicious of NY Disguise Inc Dreamgirl International Dress Up America Eddies Trick and Novelty Inc. Ellie Shoes, Inc elope, Inc Flashback & Freedom, Inc. Forum Novelties, Inc 951-276-2500 925-294-4002 502-583-0636 818-846- 0579 718-821-7100 516-281-2800 858-391-3600 800-622-5686 718-436-0031 800-544-8278 714-771-0015 719-328-1312 631-471-2548 516-536-4600 Funny Fashion, Inc FunWorld Garland Beauty Products, Inc. Ghoulish Productions Goddessey LLC Graftobian Make-up Company Halco Jacobson Hat Co. Inc Just Pretend Kids Leg Avenue Loftus International Mehron Inc. Midnight Syndicate Soundtracks Peter Alan, Inc 719-260-7744 516-873-9000 310-220-2080 866-336-1227 727-592-1947 608-222-7849 724-929-7300 570-342-7887 904-886-4338 626-581-1273 801-355-5335 888-552-1331 440-286-1494 571-215-6539 Rasta Imposta RG Costumes & Accessories Rubie’s Costume Co. Seasons USA Inc Smiffy’s/R.H. Smith and Sons Starline LLC Sunnywood Inc. Tabis Characters ThePirateDressing.com Trick or Treat Studios Underwraps Costumes Visual Effects/Duval LLC West Bay Inc. Zagone Studios, LLC 856-939-9599 626-858-9559 516-326-1500 866-511-0161 888-776-4339 949-209-8804 815-675-9777 323-232-8011 323-284-7201 831-713-9665 818-349-5300 718-324-0011 800-421-1940 773-509-0610 Be sure to stop by the NCA booth in Houston for an up-to-date Buyers Group booklet! The following is your 2014 list of companies that have pledged to you, NCA members, special discounts. Please be sure you write your NCA member number on all your orders to receive your discounts. Remember to place your NCA member number on ALL your orders EVEN for firms NOT listed in this brochure. When you notice an additional discount is provided, please contact the NCA office (800-NCA-1321) so we can assist the supplier in publishing these great discounts. The National Costumers Association, its officers, or its representatives are not responsible for errors in this printing. Always verify all discounts and terms with the company before finalizing purchases. Buyers Group 2014 Chairs • Gary Broadrick & Glenn Alexander • 615-256-0070 • [email protected] The Costumer • December 2013 25 Alexanders Costumes 951-276-2500, Fax 951-276-9727 [email protected] 12125 Day St #W, Moreno Valley, CA 92557 Contact: Leslie Fournier Specialty: Manufacturer of affordable quality costumes and accessories. Full line of all costume accessories. Discount: Under $2,500: 2%; $7,000: 7%; $10,000: 10%. Although NCA customers may start the year with a 2% discount, as soon as purchases exceed $2,500, customer is entitled to a 5% discount on all future purchases. When the customer reaches the next level, the same procedure will be applied and all future orders will receive a 7% discount. Terms: Customer must notify Alexanders Costumes when a discount level is reached. Discounts will be applied to all orders after notification. Late payments will void all discounts. Bauer Pacific Imports 925-294-4002, Fax 925-294-4063 [email protected] 174 Lawrence Dr., Ste A, Livermore, CA 94551 Contact: David Bauer Specialty: Venetian and festive masks, costume accessories, Halloween décor, Mardi Gras, luau, lanterns, hats, wigs, boas, disco balls, umbrellas. Discount: NCA members in good standing receive: Orders over $1000, 5%; orders over $2,500, 7%; orders over $5,000, 10%. Terms: New accounts must prepay their orders by Visa/Mastercard or money order. Established accounts receive 30-day payment terms from date of shipment. A 2.5% monthly finance charge will be applied to delinquent accounts. To apply for an open account a minimum order of $250 and a completed credit application must be completed and approved. Please note: All discounts and special prices are void if not paid within terms. 26 Caufields Costume Culture by Franco 502-583-0636, Fax 502-583-2002 [email protected] 1006 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202 www.caufields.com Contact: Kerry or Janine Caufield, Tracy or Stacy Johnson Specialty: Caufield’s is a family-owned wholesale distributor since 1920. Fast, friendly service with low minimums. Caufield’s offers wholesale pricing that is the same or just slightly higher than the manufacturers. We distribute for the following companies: Paper Magic, Forum Novelties, Disguise, Beistle, Rubie’s, RG Costumes, Mehron, Rasta Imposta, Franco. Discount: As an incentive to NCA members only, we are offering a low minimum opening order with Net 11/1/14 dating of only $400 with approved credit. This will enable you to combine products from several major manufacturers to reach the $400 minimum. Dating orders will ship after June 1. All subsequent orders of $50 or more will also receive the benefit of November 1 dating. Place your order by April 1 and you can special order any item from the manufacturers listed above, even items we do not regularly stock. Simply fax or email us your order on the specific manufacturer’s order form and we will get the items in for you. This will eliminate the need for you to reach high minimums with each company and still get the merchandise needed with Halloween dating terms. 718-821-7100, Fax 718-821-7101 [email protected] 70-30 80th St., Glendale, NY 11385 www.costumeculture.com Contact: Jay Dinhofer Specialty: Chucky license mask and costumes; a full line of fashion and character wigs and fashion forward costumes. Discount: Special NCA volume discounts: $2500+: 3%; $5000+: discount 5%; $7500+: discount 7%; $15000+: discount 10%; $25000+: discount 15%. Terms: Halloween dating is available to members that apply for it. Cinema Secrets Inc. 818-846- 0579, Fax 818-846-0431 [email protected] 4400 Riverside Dr., Burbank, CA 91505 www.cinemasecrets.com Contact: Michael Stein Specialty: Special FX latex appliances, Halloween makeup, blood, and accessories. Discount: NCA members receive a 20% discount. Terms: Net 30 on everyday orders and Halloween dating 11/5 on approval. The Costumer • December 2013 Delicious of NY 516-281-2800, Fax 516-281-2801 [email protected] 1770 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747 www.deliciousofny.com Contact: Patty Gatto Specialty: Women’s costumes and accessories. Discount: 10% discount. Terms: New account minimum order: $200; reorders, $100. No returns unless factory defect or damaged in transit. Disguise Inc/Division of Jakks Pacific 858-391-3600, Fax 858-391-3601 [email protected], [email protected], or dealer link on our website 12120 Kear Place, Poway, CA 92064 www.disguise.com Contact: Jay Nafman or area Disguise Rep Specialty: Captain America Winter Soldier, Spiderman 2, Maleficent, Princesses, Sofia, Guardians, Transformers, Mario Bros., Power Rangers, Wolverine, X-Men, accessories, proprietary costume, and many more. Discount: (subject to change) Discount from invoice for all orders placed by March 17: proprietary product: 17%; licensed: 13%; confirmed 2014 NCA members placing orders by March 17 will continue to receive the maximum 17% / 13% discounts against reorder activity through the 2014 season. NCA members not placing orders by March 17 will receive appropriate benefits under our published standard 2014 program. Terms: An NCA active membership number/ID must appear on all orders for the appropriate discount to be applied. Minimum opening order: $1000. Premium program minimum order qualification: $2500+. Terms: Net 11/10/14 for orders $2500+. Net 30 days for orders $1000$2500. All payment terms subject to credit approval. Defective allowance: 1%, based on net volume shipped calendar 2014; in lieu of return of any defective 2014 product shipped in 2014; deducted from individual member invoice. Freight FOB Walnut CA. Ship-to location minimum order/reorder: $100, per ship-to location. All discounts calculated against net shipments in 2014 and subject to forfeiture if payable is delinquent. Discounts do not apply to direct import orders. Discounts cannot be combined with any other offers i.e. closeouts, special sale items. Credit card transactions available via credit department. Per credit, fee for returns without a valid return authorization for defective, recalled, or mis-shipped merchandise. Any deviations to the program must be authorized by the sales department. Dreamgirl International 800-622-5686, Fax 800-625-7363 [email protected] 5548 Lindbergh Lane, Bell, CA 90201 www.dreamgirldirect.com Contact: Eric Ehrens Specialty: Adult women’s and men’s costumes and accessories, kids’ costumes and accessories. Discount: 8% year-round NCA membership discount Dress Up America 718-436-0031, Fax 718-775-3200 [email protected] 234 Lee Ave 8th fl, Brooklyn, NY 11206 www.dressupamerica.com Contact: Barry Grossman Specialty: Dress Up America is proud to be an independent wholesale company featuring a beautiful collection of superb quality Halloween and year-round costumes. We feature fancy dress costumes, wigs, and exciting accessories in all sizes ranging fom infants, boys, girls, teens, men, and women. Discount: A. 10% all year round discount (no minimum purchase). B. Additional 5% discount for placing the orders at the Halloween & Party Expo in Houston. C. Free freight for orders above $1500. Terms: Halloween dating (11/10) based on credit approval. Eddies Trick and Novelty 800-544-8278, Fax 404-377-2210 [email protected] 262 Rio Circle, Decatur, GA 30030 www.eddiestrickshop.com Contact: Frank McKinnon Specialty: Tricks, magic, makeup, clown supplies, novelties, wigs, masks, costumes, gag gifts. Discount: As a way of rewarding our customers for adhering to our terms, we offer a BONUS for all qualified early orders and prompt payment. On November 15 we will compute earned bonus rewards and issue a formal credit memo that may be used against subsequent purchases only. In no case is it intended to be a cash reward. The bonus will be computed as follows: initial orders by July 9; $1000 to $2499 - 3% bonus; $2500 to $4999 - 5% bonus; $5000 to $9999 - 7% bonus; $10000 and up - 10% bonus. All subsequent purchases between July 10 and Oct 31, 2014 will be computed at the same rate as long as they are paid on time. No order will be included that is paid after November 8, 2014. Terms: Halloween order(s) must be placed by July 1 totalling $1000 or more. Payment must be received on time. Halloween accounts, including those orders shipped in October, are due November 8. Any payment received after November 8 invalidates the bonus. No discounts will be given on Mehron or Ben Nye Professional or Mini-Pro Make-up Kits. We will not duplicate any Mehron or Ben Nye discounts. California costumes are not included. You can stipulate shipping dates. When ordered before July 9, 2014 the items will be reserved for you for shipment when you desire. This does not change your regular method of payment. If you are currently purchasing from us on a net 30 account, C.O.D., or credit card, your method of payment will remain the same unless some other terms are worked out with our credit department. The Costumer • December 2013 Ellie Shoes, Inc 714-771-0015, Fax 714-771-0053 [email protected] 1050 N. Batavia St., Ste B, Orange, CA 92867 www.ellieshoes.com Contact: Elda Valdez Specialty: Costume footwear for men, women, and kids, offering everything sexy, scary, and cute for Halloween. Discount: 5% year-round discount to all NCA members. 10% from Jan-March 31, 2014. Terms: NCA membership number must be included on the purchase order, email, and/or fax in order to receive appropriate discounts. If calling in, please have your NCA number available. elope, Inc 719-328-1312, Fax 719-328-1261 [email protected] 10035 Federal Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80908 www.elope.com Contact: Kelli Borel Specialty: High quality hats, glasses, costume accessories for licensed and non-licensed products. Discount: 10% discount on first time elope order (new customer). 5% discount on all reorders ($25,000 minimum for that level of discount is waived for NCA members) Terms: Opening order $200, reorders $100. First 3 orders credit card, after which you may request net 30 with approved credit. continued ... continued... 27 FunWorld Div. Easter Unlimited Inc. Flashback & Freedom, Inc. 631-471-2548, Fax 631-471-3183 [email protected] 1 Comac Loop, Unit 10, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 www.flashbackandfreedom.com Contact: Howard Gruick Specialty: Sunglasses, jewelry, hippie clothing, headbands, lab coats, hot fad items, suspenders, bandanas, peace merchandise. Discount: 5% off all orders. Terms: CC, COD, or net 30 with great credit. Forum Novelties, Inc 516-536-4600, Fax 516-536-9741 [email protected] 1770 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747 www.forumnovelties.com Contact: Fred Pittella Specialty: Costumes, masks, makeup, wigs, décor, props, Halloween accessories, joke, tricks, novelties, Mardi Gras, St. Pats, luau, Christmas. Discount: 5% discount on all orders and on all categories. 7% on orders $5000+. 10% on orders $10,000+. 15% for orders over $15,000. Terms: Halloween dating November 10th. Funny Fashion, Inc 719-260-7744, Fax 719-260-7743 [email protected] 10035 Federal Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80908 www.funnyfashion.com Contact: Diane Lutz Specialty: Costumes: 20s to 80s, historical, ethnic, western and Indian, clowns, characters, and accessories. Discount: $250-$4,999: 5%; $5,000+: 7%; $10,000+: 10%; $20,000+: 15% Terms: Halloween dating (Nov. 10) with approved credit. FOB Funny Fashion Distribution point. 28 516-873-9000, Fax 516-873-9005 [email protected] 80 Voice Rd, Carle Place, NY 11514 www.fun-world.net Contact: Alex Losito Specialty: Costumes, wigs. Accessories, décor, makeup, mascots, Santa suits, beards, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s Discount: NCA Members automatically receive 10% off of our list price on all items in our line. Group “selected” or “recommended” items receive an additional discount of 10-30%. Additional discount varies, see official FunWorld/NCA order forms for exact price/ discount. Terms: Seasonal dating (net Nov. 10) available upon credit review for USA-based customers. We offer free freight on orders over $2,000 (or 300lbs) per warehouse. This is only available to a USA-based ship-to address. International members please call or email for details. Garland Beauty Products, Inc. 310-220-2080, Fax 310-933-4280 [email protected] 13041 Cerise Ave, Hawthorne, CA 90250 www.garlandbty.com Contact: Sara Schaap Specialty: Specializing in false eyelashes and glamorous party eyelashes, as well as wigs, beards, and moustaches Discount: Halloween dating — 5% Terms: Halloween dating for existing net customers in good standing with Garland, and preapproved net terms with 3 credit references for new customers. Ghoulish Productions/ Caretas Rev S.A. de C.V 866-336-1227, Fax 866-336-1227 [email protected] Alfonso Junco 4, Col-Lazaro Cardenas, Cuemavara, Morelos, Mexico, 62080 www.ghoulishproductions.com Contact: Rosalba Dorado The Costumer • December 2013 Specialty: Masks, props, hands, accessories, and costumes for Halloween and costume parties. Discount: 10% discount. Special price for some half masks of $3.15usd, min. 12 pieces. Special price for “Serial Killers” of $4.50US, min. 12 pieces. Special price for regular “Chinless” line of $5.99US, min. 12 pieces. Special price for “Zombie Feet” 25326, 25327, 25328 of $5.10US, min. 12 pieces. Special price for “Junior Skeleton Hands” 27058, 27059 of $5.40US, min. 12 pieces. Terms: Minimum order $500US. Discount and special prices only if order is received before April 30/payment via credit card. Credit card information needs to be given at time of order. Goddessey LLC 727-592-1947, Fax 727-499-7412 [email protected] 200 Central Ave., Ste 600, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 www.goddessey.com Contact: Jessica Stewart Specialty: Goddessey designs beautiful, attention-grabbing costumes, wigs, and accessories that transform women into their dreams. Discount: 10% discount for NCA members on all orders up to $5,000. Orders of $5,000+ will receive a 20% discount. Terms: Opening order requirement is $500. Reorder minimum is $250. Visit www.goddessey.com for complete terms and conditions including international shipping, orders and returns, delivery information and FAQs. Graftobian Make-up Company 608-222-7849, Fax 608-222-7893 [email protected] 510 Tasman Street, Madison, WI 53714 www.graftobian.com Contact: Janine Wardale Specialty: Professional makeup for stage, screen, Halloween, HD beauty, fantasy, clowning, gore, etc. Made in USA. Discount: NCA members will receive a one tier level increase in their earned discount per the schedule on the back of our 2013-14 wholesale catalog. Terms: Orders for the year need to have exceeded $1,000 before discount level increase kicks in. Ontime payment is required. Halloween orders must be in by April 15. Halco 724-929-7300, Fax 724-929-7301 [email protected] 723 E. Railroad Ave., Verona, PA 15147 www.halcoholidays.com Contact: Terri Greenberg Specialty: High quality Santa Claus suits: Mrs. Claus, elves, Santa’s helpers, mascots, and Christmas accessories. Discount: NCA members receive a 4% discount on orders placed by 5/31/14 plus 5% discount on orders of $1,500 or more. Terms: Credit card or terms given to qualified accounts. Jacobson Hat Co. Inc 570-342-7887, Fax 570-342-7454 [email protected] 1301 Ridge Row, Scranton, PA 18510 www.Jhats.com Contact: Jeff Jacobson Specialty: Hats and accessories for costumes and Halloween. Discount: Case pack pricing on new items ordered by 1/31/14. Nov 10 dating for Halloween orders with a ship date of August 1 Terms: Offer valid for NCA members that are current with their accounts. Just Pretend Kids 904-886-4338, Fax 904-260-7970 [email protected] 6920 Phillips Industrial Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 www.justpretendkids.com Contact: Charlene Wilkins Specialty: Upscale infant, toddler and children’s costumes, tutus, wings, and accessories Discount: 5% additional discount to all NCA members, above and beyond the 10% show discount offered for all orders over $350. Terms: Upon credit approval, October 31 dating for all Halloween orders. Leg Avenue, Inc. 626-581-1273, Fax 626-581-1881 [email protected] 19601 E. Walnut Dr S, City of Industry, CA 91748 www.legavenue.com Contact: Bertha Valenzuela Specialty: Adult and children costumes: female and male, plus size, toddlers and infants, lingerie and hosiery (plus size also available), women’s shoes. Discount: 8% on all catalog items Terms: 30 net on everyday orders; Halloween dating 11/10 on Halloween orders upon factor approval; Halloween dating must be noted on the order. Loftus International 801-355-5335, Fax 888-871-7375 [email protected] 865 South 200 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 www.Loftus.com Contact: Jim Rose Specialty: Costumes, accessories, novelties, and magic. Discount: $1500-$2499, 3% discount; $2500$4999, 5% discount; $5000+, 5% discount plus free freight. Terms: Halloween dating for current, approved accounts Mehron Inc. 888-552-1331, Fax 845-426-1515 [email protected] 100 Red Schoolhouse Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 www.mehron.com Contact: Gene Flaharty Specialty: Professional makeup for stage, TV, film, fashion, facepainting, Halloween, clowning. Discount: Automatic 5% discount off wholesale list prices for any/all orders over $100 plus 50% off standard UPS shipping rates. 10% discount off wholesale list prices once YTD purchases reach $1,500, plus 50% off standard UPS shipping rates and for all additional orders over $100 for the rest of the calendar year. 15% discount off wholesale list prices once YTD purchases reach $3,750 plus 50% off standard UPS shipping rates and for all additional orders over $100 for the rest of the calendar year. The Costumer • December 2013 Free product info guides and free promotional materials. Terms: No retroactive discounts. Member firms must present membership documentation with P.O. Net 30 day payment terms must be honored. Halloween dating payment terms must be honored; payment due 11/10/14. Midnight Syndicate Soundtracks, div. Entity Productions Inc. 440-286-1494, Fax 440-285-2449 [email protected] 11510 Boxwood Circle, Chardon, OH 44024 www.midnightsyndicate.com Contact: Edward Douglas Specialty: Midnight Syndicate Halloween music CDs, creating the finest Halloween orchestral instrumental music and sound effects for over 17 years. Discount: 5% discount for any purchase of 12 CDs or more. Halloween dating upon request. Peter Alan, Inc 571-215-6539, Fax [email protected] PO Box 165, Herndon, VA 20172 www.peter-alan.com Contact: Jon St. Onge Specialty: Beautiful wings, as well as historical or humorous costumes. Discount: NCA members receive 10% all year round discount (no minimum purchase) with an additional 5% discount for placing orders by February 10, 2014. Terms: 15% deposit on all orders over $500.2/ 10-net 30 on all individual orders received up to $1500, and 3/10 or 2/20-net 60 on all order larger than $1500. Late payments will forfeit any discounts. continued ... continued... 29 Rubie’s Costume Co. Rasta Imposta 856-939-9599, Fax 856-939-5990 [email protected] PO Box 7, Runnemede, NJ 08078 www.rastaimposta.com Contact: Sue Wellington Specialty: Costumes for all ages. Licensed costumes, accessories. New for 2014: Super Staches and Snappy Ties. Discount: 5% discount (when paid within terms) on initial orders of $1,000 received by March 1, 2014.. 20% discount (when paid within terms) on initial orders of $3,500 received by March 1, 2014. Terms: Orders must be received by March 1, 2014 to establish discounts. Discounts expire December 31, 2014. New customers terms are credit card for first order. May apply for credit terms on future orders. RG Costumes & Accessories 626-858-9559, Fax 626-858-9798 [email protected] 726 Arrow Grand Circle, Covina, CA 91722 www.rgcostume.com Contact: Roger Lee Specialty: Costumes (Halloween, biblical, periodic, sexy, Christmas); animal funsies (jumpsuits), hoodies, and gorilla suit; accessories, wigs, hats, wings, panties; So So Happy onesies, Skelanimal onesies. Discount: 15% discount for order amount net of $1500 and above for whole calendar year. No discount for order less than $1500 annually, no discount for drop shipments. Terms: Net 30 days for shipments from Jan. 1 through June 15. Halloween dating for annual order over $1500, shipments after June 15, and approved credit. 30 each account the maximum amount of time to reach the highest discount level. This offer is valid only to members of the NCA in good 516-326-1500, Fax 516-326-1713 standing by May 1, 2014 which have paid at [email protected] least 97% of their Halloween invoices with One Rubie Plaza, Richmond Hill, NY 11418 Rubie’s Costume Co., Inc. by November 10th as www.rubies.com required. Contact: Arthur Savarese Terms: The initial Halloween order has to be Specialty: Rubie’s is the world’s largest placed before May 1, 2014 to receive all the manufacturer and distributor of Halloween NCA discounts. As long as the initial Halloween licensed and non-licensed costumes and order was placed before May 1, all subsequent accessories. reorders in 2014 will also be subject to the NCA Discount: Rubie’s Costume Co., Inc. will give program. All Halloween orders placed after May all members of the buyers group one upgrade from the normal discount level that they would 1 will not be included in the NCA program and qualify for providing that they reach at least the will be subject to the regular Rubie’s discount policy. first discount level on their own. Merchandise Shipping charges are not discountable, and included in program: All merchandise purchased are not included in your year-to-date sales from Rubie’s catalogs are included, whether it total. The computer calculates discounts on be children’s costumes, adult costumes, rental costumes, hats, accessories, Christmas items, St. merchandise actually shipped by December 31 (not on unfilled orders or backorders). Discounts Patrick’s Day items, Easter, etc. ONLY are based on payments within terms. EXCEPTIONS would be any items marked Delinquent accounts forfeit all discounts. closeout, overstock on special quotations on customer’s orders, Tillie Beige packages (TBC 14), “Rubie’s Red Line” pricing, or merchandise purchased on letter of credit. Purchases from 866-511-0161, Fax 905-864-8297 the “Rubie’s Red Line” pricing will be invoiced [email protected] separately and not counted as part of your “Dollar Volume Discount Program” with Rubie’s. 2863 King Rd, Sauquoit, NY 13456 www.seasonsusainc.com This is for the sole purpose of eliminating Contact: Steve Waszkiewicz further discounts on the items purchased from Specialty: Carving kits, costumes, skeletons, this “Rubie’s Red Line” pricing. Your gory props, décor, Jungle Book, Universal discountable sales to the year total will Monsters, Star Wars licensed products. determine your discount level. Volume Incentive Program: With the purchase of Discount: 20% discount on subtotal of order. Discount does not apply to freight charges. $500 or more from Rubie’s Makeup/Mask Terms: Discount is forfeited if not paid within Illusions Divisions (FOB-Phoenix, AZ), NCA terms. members can deduct 50% of their freight charges from their Makeup/Mask Illusions invoices ONLY. Rubie’s will also offer special pricing on select Christmas items. Dollar Volume Discount Program: Annual 888-776-4339, Fax 888-776-4339 purchase above $3,000, NCA discount 3% [email protected] (normal 2%); above $5,000, NCA 5% (normal Heapham Rd South, 3%); above $7,500, NCA 7% (normal 5%); Gainsborough Lincolnshire, DN21 1FH, UK above $15,000, NCA 10% (normal 7%); above www.smiffys.com $25,000, NCA 12% (normal 10%); above Contact: Maxine Andrews $37,000, NCA 15% (normal 12%); above Specialty: Costumes, wigs, accessories, $50,000, NCA 16%. seasonal, sexy costumes, lingerie, hosiery, NOTE: Maximum discount level is 16%, and clubwear can be achieved by purchasing $50,000 in Discount: Members will receive 15% all year merchandise during the 2014 year. The final roun discount. adjustment for all accounts will take place at the end of the year as a rebate, thereby giving Terms: Halloween dating for approved credit accounts. Seasons USA Inc Smiffy’s/R.H. Smith and Sons The Costumer • December 2013 Starline LLC ThePirateDressing.com 949-209-8804, Fax 949-315-3153 [email protected] 1861 Reynolds, Irvine, CA 92614 www.starline.la Contact: David Davntoglu Specialty: Costumes, accessories, corsets, lingerie. Discount: 8% discount given off wholesale listed price. Terms: Terms and conditions are determined on an individual basis. 323-284-7201, Fax 888-229-1577 [email protected] K-239, Sector 5, Bawana Indl Area Delhi, INDIA, 110039 www.thepiratedressing.com Contact: Aditya Agarwal Specialty: Premium quality pirate, medieval, and renaissance clothing. Discount: 5% discount to all NCA members. Terms: Minimum order of $500. Sunnywood Inc. 815-675-9777, Fax 815-675-9788 [email protected] 2503-H Spring Ridge Dr., Spring Grove, IL 60081 www.sunnywood.net Contact: Courtney Tolbert Discount: NCA members receive one of the best discount programs in the industry. 1. Dozen pricing all year long. 2. Net 60-day terms on all orders under $1000. 3. Net 90-day terms on all orders over $1000 with approved credit. Plus we offer special promotions only for NCA members throughout the year. Tabis Characters 323-232-8011, Fax 323-232-8016 [email protected] 808 E. Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90011 www.tabischaracters.com Contact: Jasmine or Amy Specialty: High quality rental costumes at affordable prices. Discount: All NCA members in good standing will receive 2% off wholesale prices on all orders throughout the 2014 year. Terms: All payment due upon shipping. We accept all major credit cards and checks upon approval. Trick or Treat Studios 831-713-9665, Fax 831-621-4763 [email protected] 3085 Carriker Lane, Ste E, Soquel, CA 95073 www.trickortreatstudios.com Contact: Chris Zephro Specialty: Masks, costumes, and props. Original designs and licensed designs from comics and major motion pictures. Discount: Orders over $500, 5% discount. Orders over $1,000, 10% discount. Underwraps Costumes 818-349-5300, FAX 818-349-7200 [email protected] 9600 Irondale Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311 www.underwrapscostumes.com Contact: Irene Shaffa Specialty: Infant, toddler, children, teen, adult (men/women)/plus size, costumes for all occasions. Discount: 5% extra onto our discount schedule. Discount schedule: $3,000: 3% +5% NCA; $5,000: 5%+5% NCA; $10,000: 10%+5% NCA. Terms: Must meet minimum order of $500 per season to receive additional discount. West Bay Inc. 800-421-1940, Fax 323-720-5799 [email protected] 7245 E. Oxford Way, Los Angeles, CA 90040 www.westbayinc.com Contact: Paul Jang Specialty: Everyday fashion and costume wigs; Santa wig and beard sets; BLUSH wigs, CHARACTER wigs; Glamour Eyez eyelashes, beards, and mustaches. Discount: $1000-$1500 = 5%; $1501-$2500 = 10%; $2501-$3500 = 12%; $3500 = 15%. Terms: Minimum order per order: $300. Discounts applyk on a per order basis. If payment terms apply, late payments cancel all discounts. All freight paid by customer. All new accounts opened on credit card terms. Zagone Studios, LLC 773-509-0610, Fax 773-509-0613 [email protected] 2600 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60618 www.zagonestudios.com Contact: Tony Zagone Specialty: Great fitting quality Halloween masks and accessories. Moving mouth, super soft masks and head pieces. Discount: 5% on orders over $500. 10% on orders of $1000 or more. Visual Effects/Duval LLC 718-324-0011, Fax 718-324-0300 [email protected] 600 E 156th St., Bronx, NY 10455 www.visualeffectsinc.com Contact: Hank Kwitel Specialty: Year-round manufacturer and importer of lighting, novelty, and seasonal products. Discount: 20% off dealer cost. 5% additional off for orders written at the show. Terms: Minimum dollar amount $750. Credit card or net 30 for qualified customers. The Costumer • December 2013 31 NCA Marketplace Advertising in the NCA Marketplace is $35 per issue (10% discount for NCA members). Deadline for ads is 30 days prior to issue date. Issue dates are February, May, September, and December, so deadlines are, respectively, Jan. 1, April 1, Aug. 1, and Nov. 1. You can submit a ready-made ad, or just send text and we will place it in a box. You will be billed upon publication of the ad, and payment is due upon receipt. Full details are listed on the advertising contract available on www.costumers.org, or you can contact the publications office at [email protected] or 800-NCA-1889. Retiring – complete inventory *LIQUIDATION* 25 years in business. Costumes, accessories, decorations still on display. Retail $300,000, cost $150,000. Buy now at fraction of cost – $39,000. *Gondola shelving also available* 810-577-4551 EXCLUSIVE OFFER – BY INVITATION ONLY REDUCING EX CESSIVE RENT AL INVENT ORY EXCESSIVE RENTAL INVENTORY • Professional, top quality theatrical costumes & accessories • Renaissance & Victorian gowns: durable & multi-size • Frock coats • Rare cutaways • Hickory strip trousers & more Photos at www.CreativeCostumesTucson.com To order or ask questions, call 520-882-8822 (ask for Sandi), or send a fax to 520-319-5521 Call Sandi for quantity discounts. Creative Costumes, 4220 E Speedway, Tucson, AZ 32 The Costumer • December 2013 The Costumer • December 2013 The Costumer • December 2013