First name and last initial: Joy B.

Where are you from originally, or where do you currently reside? I was born in Hollywood, California.

How long have you been cosplaying? I am three years deep in cosplay now.

Which characters have you cosplayed? I have done Lady Reptile, Lady Predator, Storm from X-Men, a Hellraiser Cenobite, Genderbent Ken Kaneki, Medusa (Rider) Fate Stay Night & others.

Instagram Fan Page

What inspired you to start cosplaying? My inspiration comes from many things — my fiancee, my children, ocean sounds, wind chimes. If a ray of sun coming through the clouds is just right I can be inspired.

What do you do when you’re not cosplaying? Besides being a mom — painting with acrylics on a canvas or making custom pieces for my family.

Which costumes have provided the biggest challenge and rewards so far, and why? I’d easily say my Lady Predator. I looked online to get ideas & I didn’t like what I saw for me. All the ladies were scantily-clad which is fine for them but I didn’t want to look like that as a size 16 with all that skin hanging out. I wanted a costume that could be perceived as a real predator. I thought it okay when I finished, but I got so many compliments it made me want to go back & upgrade it to 2.0. Now I am in love with it & get requests to wear it.

What is the best advice you would give someone new to cosplaying? We all start somewhere. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake & if anyone insults you in your cosplay, walk away. In my first costume at a con I had a guy insult me & I was so hurt. I thought I looked great. That guy was just an a**.

What is one thing the cosplaying community can do better when it comes to dealing with each other? Patience, understanding & an ear to listen. People are so ready to talk but not enough really listen. And this is completely separate, but I would love for cons to get new cosplayers each year to have tables to talk to newbies and fans of the cons. New faces would be great.