As part of our extensive coverage of this year’s Virtual Crunchyroll Expo. We have teamed up with Crunchyroll to put together some exciting and exclusive interviews with some of the biggest guests who will be part of this year’s event. Luckily for us, we were able to snag an interview with Mario Bueno and Vampy Bit Me. Both renowned cosplayers in the cosplay community and this year’s judges of Crunchyroll Hime’s Cosplay Cup. We present to you our exclusive Virtual Crunchyroll Expo interview with Vampy Bit Me!
What inspired you to become a cosplayer?
There is honestly one huge reason that I started cosplaying and that goes to my Mother. Little did she know, her being a seamstress early in my life, and also being able to change her style and look often made me want to be like her. She was a bold and confident woman, and I wanted to be like that too, but in my own way.
Do you create your cosplay costumes from scratch or use a combination of purchased costume parts and your own stitching?
I personally love making my costumes from scratch. The whole process to me is exciting and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love picking out fabrics, making armor, and just figuring things out. I get a rise out of it. I do however collaborate with other creators depending on the project as well. I generally choose like-minded people to work with for those projects. Most of my costumes are made by me.
Any advice for up and coming cosplayers and individuals who are looking to become cosplayers but haven’t taken that leap of faith due to a long list of criticism they might face?
I do. The thing that helped me and still to this day gets me up and ready to work is telling myself I deserve to do this, for my life. Once you give yourself enough love and time to learn that you deserve to express yourself your own way, the World is at your fingertips. It doesn’t go without sacrifice but if you can, and you’re willing, go for what you love. Balance is key. Don’t overdo things and don’t rush. Nothing really comes easy, and certainly not with art. Make sure you learn through each costume, and eventually it’ll get easier! It’s a process so let yourself enjoy it for what it is.
Mario Bueno & Vampy Bit Me will appear as judges at Crunchyroll Hime’s Cosplay Cup. Happening tomorrow, Saturday, September 5 from 7:00-9:00 PM PT at the Crunchyroll Stage. It’s going to be a showcase of fandom creations judged by performance, construction, and innovation like no other.
Mario Bueno & Vampy Bit Me will appear as judges at Crunchyroll Hime’s Cosplay Cup. Happening tomorrow, Saturday, September 5 from 7:00-9:00 PM PT at the Crunchyroll Stage. It’s going to be a showcase of fandom creations judged by performance, construction, and innovation like no other.
For more information on Virtual Crunchyroll Expo’s full guest list and panel schedule, and to register for a free pass please click here.
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