First name and last initial: Stephanie Anne

Where are you from originally or reside currently: Herndon, Virginia

How long you have been cosplaying: About a year seriously

Other Characters cosplayed: Gamora, Lady Sif, Black Widow, Elsa

Website or facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/stephanieadorman/

1. Who or what inspired you to cosplay?

I’ve always dressed up as superheroes, and read comics. In the pictures provided, you can see me as a child dressed up as Storm. I’ve also always loved Halloween – it was my favorite holiday. I knew cosplaying was a thing, but I didn’t really get involved until about a year ago when I found out my friend Maggie was an avid cosplayer. So I hit her up about two weeks before AwesomeCon in DC and said, “Hey, do you think we could put together a Lady Sif for Awesome Con?” She laughed, and laughed, but she helped me… and since then, I keep adding to my collection for various cons….

2. What do you do when you aren’t cosplaying?

I’m a work-a-holic. It’s out of control – seriously. I also rock out charity events and help local non-profits.

3. What costumes have provided the biggest challenge and rewards so far and why?

I would say probably Lady Sif, or Gamora. Sif was difficult because everything had to be modeled in worbla for her armor including her shield and the filigree on it. Plus it was my first outfit since I was a kid – so I had to get back in the groove of things. Gamora’s outfit isn’t difficult – but painting yourself green anytime you want to use her in liquid latex isn’t the most comfortable – which is why I bought Maggie an airbrush for Christmas 😉

4. What is the best advice you would give someone new to cosplaying?

Do it with a friend! Everything is more fun with a friend. From seam ripping because you accidentally sewed the wrong part of the fabric together, to burning a hole in your carpet when you’re shaping a shield. (And yes, I did both those things – luckily, Maggie loves me even if she’s rolling her eyes at me sometimes.)

5. What is one thing the cosplaying community can do better when it comes to dealing with each other?

I haven’t been cosplaying long enough to uncover the dark seedy underbelly of cosplay, but respecting each other is key in all areas of life. We’re all on the team, regardless of our characters are – from the vendors at shows, to the cosplayers, to the guest speakers. Respect! Love! That’s what we’re all here for. 🙂