Costumer Magazine, December 2020

The

The Official Publication of the National Costumers Association, Inc.

The Crafting CraZe NCA Member Survey 2021 Buyer’s Group

December 2020

costumers.org

CONTENTS

8

features

8 The Crafting Craze Creative craft supplies can warm up winter sales.

15

By Kathleen Furore

17 2021 Buyer’s Group

departments 6

In The Industry—New Discount Program

12 Business Basics—Lessons for a Better 2021 15 Product Parade 20 My Favorite Costume

20 costumers.org

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N C A A D M I N I S T R AT I O N BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Marion Bradley 2021* Discount Costumes 1736 Watson Blvd.

Warner Robins, GA 31093 478-929-3500 ncapresident21@gmail.com

Treasurer

Vice President

Pam Markel 2021* Illusive Skull Costume Castle 1314 Morgantown Ave. Fairmont, WV 26554 304-363-4785 Fax 304-366-9850 info@illusiveskull.com

Louella Torrence 2021* Drop Me A Line Costume Shop 1050 Lehigh Street Allentown, PA 610-435-7481 Fax 610-435-7428 dropmealine@rcn.com

Director

Director

Gene Flaharty 2021* Mehron 100 Red Schoolhouse Road Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 845-426-1700 Fax 845-426-1515 gflaharty@mehron.com

Dwayne Ibsen 2021* Ibsen Costume Gallery 4981 Hamilton St. Omaha, NE 68132 402-556-1400 Fax 402-556-5727 ibsencostumes@ gmail.com

Director

Director

Tyler Volz 2021* Spotlight Characters 1140 N. Walton Blvd. #3 Bentonville, AR 72712 479-696-4500

Director

Louella Torrence 2020* Drop Me A Line Costume Shop 1050 Lehigh Street Allentown, PA 610-435-7481 Fax 610-435-7428 dropmealine@rcn.com

Linda Adams-Foat 2021* Camelot Costumes, LLC 1321 S. Demeter Dr. Freeport, IL 61032 815-233-1861 camelot7@comcast.net

Director

Lori Hammes 2021* Curtains Up Costumes 100 Kramer Street Sigourney, IA 52591 641-622-5991 Contact@ CurtainsUpCostumes.com

*indicates end of current term

Like the NCA on Facebook!

Go to www.costumers.org and look for the Facebook link at the bottom of the page! december 2020

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2020 STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRS Buyer’s Group: NCA Home Office Staff The Costumer/Roster/Publications: Ed Avis Associates Disaster & Grievance: Pam Markel, Illusive Skull Costume Castle Executive Director Liaison: Marion Bradley, Discount Costume Historian: NCA Home Office Staff Membership: Gene Flaherty, Mehron Memorial Fund/National Awards: Linda Adams-Foat, Camelot Costumes, LLC Nominations: Linda Adams-Foat, Camelot Costumes, LLC Plot Service: Lori Hammes, Curtains Up Costumes Policy & Procedures: Linda Adams-Foat, Camelot Costumes, LLC Publications Liaison: Pam Markel, Illusive Skull Costume Castle Time & Place: Dwayne Ibsen, Ibsen Costume Gallery and Pam Markel, Illusive Skull Costume Castle Web Site: Louella Torrence, Drop Me A Line Costume Shop Bereavement: Terri Greenberg, HALCO Social Media: Janine Caufield, Caufield’s and Tyler Volz, Spotlight Characters

Invoices Sent Out The invoices for your 2021 membership dues have been emailed to all current members.

Please pay promptly to ensure that your membership remains current!

If you didn’t get an invoice, please contact Ed Avis at executivedirector@costumers.org or 708-218-7755.

Thank you!

PRESIDENT ’S LETTER Presidential greetings from Georgia, As I sit down to write this greeting, it is just a few days before Thanksgiving. And although the holiday will be

history by the time you read it, I think it is still worthwhile to ask: “What are you thankful for?”

I believe if you sit down and think about it, even as this

NCA National Headquarters

business running my life every day, I was able to close my store for a while and take control

Ed Avis Executive Director P.O. Box 13347 Chicago, IL 60613 708-646-2799 pub@costumers.org

my main employees—but I have chosen to look for the silver lining in these difficult times.

The Costumer

Covid crisis continues, you will find that there are still

many blessings to be grateful for. I am personally thankful that I was actually able to slow down a bit. Instead of my

over my own days. I am not saying that there hasn’t been difficulty—especially when I lost Staying positive is very important to your well-being, and I positively know we will all get through this together.

While I was preparing to write this message, I decided to take a peek at several of my

previous messages written in past December issues. I came across my president’s letter from three years ago, which is very pertinent to these times.

In 2017, I spoke of “traffic jams, detours, and changing directions.” Boy, this is really

happening in all of our lives today! No matter who you are, your life has somehow been

changed by the Covid virus. But if you can manage to stay on the road, even if changing courses, you can still make a great finish.

Please be mindful that you do have someone on your side: the National Costumers Association.

We are trying very hard to offer classes, instruction, and discussions that are very helpful in helping you navigate this bumpy road—whatever challenges you face. If you have any questions or need help of any kind, no matter what it is, please reach out to me at

478-396-1204 or to Executive Director Ed Avis at (708) 218-7755. We will do our best to connect you to the right person to help get you the right answer!

Wishing you a happy holiday season!

Until next time,

Marion Bradley, President

National Costumers Association

Discount Costumes, Warner Robins, Georgia

december 2020

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Publications Office Ed Avis Associates P.O. Box 13347 Chicago, IL 60613 708-646-2799 pub@costumers.org Ad Sales Ed Avis 708-646-2799 pub@costumers.org Editorial Inquiries Kathleen Furore 708-267-0023 kfurore@yahoo.com Art Director Michelle Crisanti michelle@mc2chicago.com ©2020, 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.

www.costumers.org

in the industry

NCA Announces New Members-Only Discount Program

many resources. There are four key areas in the Member Center that deserve your attention:

My Info: When you click on the My Info tab on the left

side of the Member Center you will be able to update your

contact information, access your member number, or pay your membership invoices.

My Directory Listing: In this tab you can update or add

information to your company’s listing in the Member Direc-

tory. This is important because potential customers may search

Are you looking for a great deal? Of course you are! We are

delighted to announce that the NCA has partnered with Access Development to provide NCA members with a new discounts portal that is jam-packed with special offers and deals.

What’s included? Discounts from hotels, restaurants,

theme parks, car rentals, grocery stores, auto services, home & garden retailers, and scores of other consumer businesses. For example, among the deals right now are up to 50 percent off at Office Depot, 10 percent off any purchase at Cold Stone Creamery, 10 percent off at Denny’s, 10 percent off at True Value Hardware, 20 percent off Days Inn, and many, many

more. Plus, many discounts are local—when you sign in, you’ll get deals specific to your geography.

There’s no cost to NCA members—it’s simply a money-

saving benefit all members can take advantage of ! Access

Development is able to offer the deals because it works with

hundreds of organizations and can deliver a lot of customers to the companies offering the deals.

Every NCA member, including vendor members, received

an email with log-in credentials in mid-November. Go to

the site https://nca.enjoymydeals.com/ and enter your cre-

dentials…and start saving! If you didn’t get your email, or if you want to add an employee to the list, contact Ed Avis at executivedirector@costumers.org or 708-218-7755.

Now Open: Updated NCA Member center with Wealth of Resources

Have you checked out the NCA Member Center lately?

It was recently redesigned and now provides easier access to december 2020

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the NCA directory for a costume provider.

Forum: Do you have a question you’d like to ask other

NCA members? Are you looking for a particular costume

or mascot? Do you have a new business idea? You can reach other members through the Forum tab. To start a conversa-

tion, click on the appropriate category on the right side, then click the “Add New Topic” button at the top of the screen.

You can also ask to be notified by email whenever someone

comments on a topic; to set up notifications, click on the little wheel icon on the top right of

your screen and select “Communication Preferences.”

Resources: This tab contains

key member resources. For ex-

ample, if you’d like to read back

issues of The Costumer magazine, the last two years’ worth are

available in digital format here.

You can also access recordings of this year’s NCA webinars, and the entire NCA Plot Service.

If you have any trouble with

any Member Center issues, don’t hesitate to contact Executive

Director Ed Avis at 708-2187755 or executivedirector@

costumers.org. He enjoys talking to members!

10 Great Reasons to Renew Your NCA Membership Before the Snow Flies...

1. Costumer Magazine 2. Buyer’s Group Discounts 3. Members-Only Webinars 4. New Consumer Discount Program 5. Virtual Roundtables 6. Biweekly NCA Today e-Newsletter 7. Info-packed www.costumers.org 8. NCA Plot Service 9. NCA Guide to a Safe Halloween 10. Online Member Directory

Renewal Invoices Have Been Emailed to All Current Members - Did You Get Yours? If Not, Contact Ed Avis at executivedirector@costumers.org today!

The Crafting Craze

Creative craft supplies can warm up winter sales

By Kathleen Furore You’ve probably never considered the Washington Post a likely source of information about crafting. But there it was—a headline in

the May 20, 2020 edition introducing a story about a Covid-fueled crafting boom: “Not a crafter? Here’s why you should consider becoming one during the pandemic.”

The section in which the article appeared was even more surprising: It was in the Wellness, not the Lifestyle or the Arts &

The story covered a lot of ground, but the basic take-away was simple: Crafting is good for your mental health.

Entertainment section.

“Picking up an old craft or delving into a new one is a positive way to get through the coronavirus pandemic, according to men-

tal health experts,” the article explained.

And here’s the part that pertains to costume shops looking for ways to boost sales during what likely will be a long winter

ahead: Many businesses had seen an uptick in sales of craft-related supplies and participation in online crafting tutorials since the pandemic hit—and that was after only two months of pandemic restrictions.

Think of the opportunity that exists now that we’re at nine months and counting!

Craft category important for NCA member shop

Party Productions, an NCA-member shop in Fort Dodge, Iowa, is one store that has reaped the benefits of having scrapbooking and other craft supplies in stock as the pandemic rages on.

While sales of scrapbooking supplies have not skyrocketed, that cat-

egory—which includes Memory Box Die Cut designs plus a large, extremely

diverse selection of paper, stickers, and other accessories—hasn’t been as hardhit as some of the shop’s other departments, according to the store’s theatrical manager, Meredith Smith-Lane. In fact, the craft category overall has helped sustain the shop during this challenging time.

“We took a hit on the party side of things this spring, when many big

events were canceled or postponed, and nearly all of our spring productions

in the costume department were canceled, too,” she says. “The paper crafters costumers.org

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were still making things, though— so those customers were still

coming in, still buying. Being

diversified—by

offering a lot of

different things to

different audiences and having more than just one thing to rely on—is what I think carried us through those months.”

In addition to the scrapbooking supplies, Party Productions offers myriad items appropriate for a variety of projects.

“We have what we call the ‘teacher section,’ where we stock a variety of craft supplies like construction paper, pipe cleaners, pompoms, ribbon, origami paper, acrylic paints, craft foam, that sort of thing, as well as classroom decor like bulletin board borders,” says Smith-Lane, who notes that teachers receive a discount on those items.

And that inventory isn’t for teachers alone.

“This is a useful area for a lot of people—I’m a Girl Scout troop leader, and I am always getting materials for my troop crafts from that area!” she adds.

Even the costume department features its own craft section full of feathers, hat forms, rhinestones, paintable masks, and a few notions and jewelry-making supplies. “We have the items on hand for our own use this way, when we’re making hats and building rentals, and can also supply our DIY folks without having to send them over to Hobby Lobby,” Smith-Lane explains. “So even if they don’t want to pay us to make the item for them, we still get some sales from that crowd.”

Centerpiece-making supplies like sprays, foam, mylar paper and acrylic gems are another craft category Party Productions carries. “There are crafty items tucked into corners all over the store,” she says.

So, what does Smith-Lane think lies ahead where crafting is concerned? Will Party Productions try to incorporate more craft materials into the store’s inventory in anticipation of a long, possibly quarantined winter ahead?

“I don’t think we’ll probably be ordering much new in preparation—we’re already sort of hunkering down in the ordering department, as we’ve hit the post-Halloween slowdown,” Smith-Lane says. “I do think that we’d be wise to promote the craft supplies in our weeklies during those winter months to remind people of the things we have in stock…sort of, ‘Here, if you’re stuck at home, at least you can make things.’”

And that seems like a good approach other costume shops should consider when thinking about how to warm up sales during the winter months ahead.

Craft Corner: Ideas for Selling Crafting Kits and Supplies

In addition to scrapbooking supplies and accessories, why not try creating kits that offer fun projects customers can complete at home (especially things that kids can do with little supervision)?

You might even try reaching out to local art teachers and scout leaders to see if they’re interested in using the kits as a group project. Ideas include:

Easy-to-sew felt crafts

M Construction paper crafts M Card-making kits —a great option for Valentine’s Day. M Mask-making kits—perfect for Mardi Gras at-home parties M Easy-to-make DIY costumes using scraps of fabric or old

costumes and accessories you have on hand. Ideas include

super-hero capes kids can decorate with cut-out felt shapes;

princess hats and tiaras; cloth-covered headbands and more.

And don’t forget the appeal of online tutorials! According to the

Washington Post article about crafting, Michaels has seen a 150 percent increase in viewers of Facebook Live tutorials with Lynn Lilly, founder of Craft Box Girls, and now offers free Zoom classes on topics like ornament making and more due to increased demand! december 2020

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business basics

2021 Can Be Better Than 2020!

Three Lessons Show Us How

By Ed Avis

This year has been bizarre in ways no one could have predicted, and very few costume businesses have been unscathed.

But 2020 taught us some lessons that can inform all of us as we look ahead to 2021.

Lesson 1: We Can’t Let the Internet Eat Our Lunch

Right after Halloween, the NCA conducted a survey of members asking how they fared during the holiday. We also conducted some research among other sources. What we learned was that for many people on the supply side of Halloween—costume manufacturers and candy makers—the holiday was a success. But for most on the bricks-and-mortar side, it was painful.

For example, in an article in the New York Times two days before Halloween, Scott Morris of Morris Costumes said, “We have sold more decorations, more animated props than we ever have in the history of our company,” which dates back to 1965. The National Retail Federation also had good news: The organization said it expected consumers to spend just over $8 billion on Halloween, including costumes, candy, greeting cards and décor. Last year the figure was $8.8 billion, so this year was expected to be down just a little.

Those are impressive figures. But notice they aren’t coming december 2020

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directly from Main Street retailers. The story there is quite different: According to the NCA survey, 70 percent of costume shop owners reported that costume sales in 2020 were “much worse than in 2019” and 85 percent said costume rentals were “much worse than in 2019.” Even décor took a hit: 46 percent said sales of décor were “much worse than 2019.”

How could Main Street retailers have reported diminished sales when the manufacturers reported improved sales?

Possibly because many consumers shopped online instead of in-store this year. That’s a trend we probably can’t reverse but can do a few things about.

First, the NCA is committed to helping our members create solid, effective online sales programs. We had a couple of webinars on that topic this year, and we’ll do more in the year ahead. Selling online doesn’t mean you’re giving up on bricksand-mortar—it just means you’re connecting with some customers in a different way.

And second, we will encourage and support our members’ efforts to get their communities to embrace the “shop local” concept. There are so many advantages to shopping local— from supporting local families to creating vibrant downtowns—that we believe with the right encouragement, most consumers understand the idea.

Encouraging the shop local concept will take more than just firing up NCA’s bricks-and-mortar members (aka our Buyer Members). We also will need the support of our Vendor Members. Some Vendor Members had a great Halloween because internet sales were strong, but they need to understand that a strong retail environment that includes thriving independent retailers is much better for their business than a few big outlets controlling the market.

Lesson 2: We Need to Innovate

Some NCA Buyer Members did have a solid Halloween.

One reason: They didn’t sell the same old stuff all the big box retailers offer. Consider Julie Keck of Starline Costumes in San Antonio. “We did five tent sales where we sold a lot of old rental costumes,” Keck reports. “Customers are tired of seeing the same old packaged costumes, but people loved the rentals we were selling. If people were counting on packaged costume sales this year, they were out of luck.”

Naturally, selling old costumes isn’t a long-term solution, but the idea is sound: Stores will sell more if they offer things consumers can’t get online or at major retailers. An NCA survey in mid-November revealed the range of non-costume products our members sell: party equipment rentals, balloons, vintage clothing, Covid masks, magic tricks, wedding accessories, and scrapbooking and craft supplies. (For tips on scrapbooking and craft supplies, see the cover story on page 8 of this issue, and visit www.costumers.org for even more ideas).

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Lesson 3: Let’s Work Together

Let’s use the power of our NCA community to help each other in 2021. We did that this year via our Help Halloween Happen campaign, which was paid for by a group of NCA Vendor Members. According to the NCA survey in midNovember, 18 percent of members used at least one of the three elements of the campaign.

What programs can we accomplish together in 2021? We’ll probably do Help Halloween Happen again, though hopefully its focus (and name) will be different because Covid will be gone. We could also help our members with a shop local campaign, such as the 3/50 Project that some NCA members have participated in (www.the350project.net). We’ve got a few other irons in the fire that could help our members save money and earn more, but we’re open to your ideas! Please, think about your business and imagine what the NCA could do to help you. Email your ideas to me at executivedirector@ costumers.org.

In 2021 Halloween will fall on a Sunday. That’s not quite as good as this year’s Saturday date, but it’s not bad. If we can make it a great Halloween, and increase everyone’s business the rest of the year, maybe we’ll be able to put the anguish of 2020 behind us.

—Ed Avis is the executive director of the National Costumers Association and Publisher of The Costumer.

P roduct parade Judith M’s Metallic Straw

InCharacter Costumes’ Lil’ Hedgehog. The 2021

Cloth—special sale for The Cos-

tumer magazine readers through December 31, 2020. Celebrate

lineup of costumes for

the holidays with fashionable,

babies includes this

shimmering straw cloth. Metallic

adorable hedgehog

Lurex blended in the weave of

jumpsuit complete

Abaca and Pinokpok fabrics. Both are 36 inches wide and sold

with hood and skid-

by the yard and half yard. The Metallic Paris Cloth Abaca has

resistant booties.

a regular price of $17.85 per yard and the Metallic Pinokpok is

516-873-9000;

$19.85 per yard. Mention code COST15 and receive 15% off

incharacter.com

these items when ordering through our new website.

https://www.judithm.com/product-category/straw-cloth/

Smiffy’s Manic Panic Wigs. This dazzling new

lineup of licensed wigs in 6 styles and 15 colorways is

offered in partnership with Manic Panic, the leaders in

creative hair color and cosmetics. Offerings include the

Queen Bitch wig in After Midnight Ombre; the Super

Vixen wig in Amethyst Ombre; The Trash Goddess wig in its Love Kitten, Fleurs du Mal, and Venus Envy color-

ways. There are even split dye styles: Glam Doll in Blue

Valentine, Downtown Diva in Raven Virgin, and Siren in

Aeromax ‘s Flight Jackets.

The Flight Jacket is perfect when a lightweight jacket is needed. The shell is 100% cotton and it’s fully lined with 100% polyester.

Colorful sewn-on patches, pencil pockets and sturdy zipper give it an authentic look. Available in youth sizes Small and Large, and 5 adult sizes from Adult Small to Adult XXL. 877-776-2291; aeromaxtoys.com

Cotton Candy Angel. All styles are synthetic, vegan, and heat-styleable. 888-776-4339; smiffys.com

Disguise’s Legend of Zelda Link Sword and Link Shield. With Link’s legendary Master Sword (85721) you can fight your way through

every enemy in Hyrule with style. In-

cludes Sword and Scabbard. And with the Link’s amazing Hyrulian Shield (85719), you can defend yourself

from all manner of attacks by Hyrule’s

fiercest foes! Both items are one size

Zagone Studios’ Rogue the Golden Demon. Feeling a bit fiendish? This horned crazy character mask with devilish grin and an attached quality plush hood exudes that inner devilish mood and creates the perfect demon character.

Great monster sculpt with great comfort; covers the entire head. The mask is a stand-alone costume that can be worn for extended periods of time and has great visibility.

773-509-0610; zagonestudios.com

and are suitable for both children and

adults. 858-391-3600; disguise.com

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NCA Marketplace Advertising in the NCA Marketplace is $35 per issue (10% discount for NCA members). You will be billed upon publication; payment is due upon receipt. For full details, see the advertising contract available at www.costumers.org. Contact Ed Avis at 708-218-7755 or pub@costumers.org.

LW53

LW48

LW43

Invoices Sent Out The invoices for your 2021 membership dues have been emailed to all current members.

Please pay promptly to ensure that your membership remains current!

If you didn’t get an invoice, please contact Ed Avis at executivedirector@costumers.org or 708-218-7755.

Thank you! december 2020

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LW44

LW726

LW006

LW66WT

Morris Costumes’ Santa Wigs & Beards. The LW44

Santa FS10 Economy Santa Set has wig and beard with attached mustache. The LW53 Santa AT888 Economy Santa Set includes a wig, mustache and beard. The LW006 Santa 006 Santa Set is a good 19th century straighter style that includes a very long beard with wired mustache and skin top wig; comes boxed; can be hand washed. The LW43 Santa B303 Bargain Santa Set includes wig and beard with wired mustache made from washable fiber. The LW726 Santa Set 004YH Yak includes a straight-haired wig and beard; separate mustache and eyelashes require spirit gum adhesive (not included). The LW48 Supreme Santa 004 Set includes a Kanekalon rental-quality wig with an exceptionally wide beard that covers the whole chest; beard is finely constructed with full backing, mustache is wired, and wig has a skin top; comes boxed. The LW66 Supreme Santa 007 Set includes a Kanekalon rental-quality wig with an exceptionally wide beard that covers the whole chest; beard is finely constructed with full backing; mustache is a separate, hand-made lacebacked mustache that must be applied.

704-332-3304; www.morriscostumes.com

buyers group NCA Vendors offer discounts to NCA Buyer Members

The companies listed on the following pages have pledged special discounts to NCA members. Remember to list your NCA member number on ALL orders, even for firms not listed here, to show industry vendors the strength of our organization. If you notice an additional discount is provided, please contact the NCA office at 708-218-7755 so we can assist the supplier in publishing CAMDEN PASSAGE (SILVER) www.camdenpassage.com (888) 755-5578; Fax (888) 955-5578 info@camdenpassage.com 115 First St., Collingwood, ON L9Y 4W3 Contact: Victor Del Zoppo Specialties: Loox - Theatrical Contact Lenses.

Moon Creations - Professional Make Up. Discount: 15% Off Invoice. Net 30 OAC. DISGUISE, INC./DIVISION OF JAKKS PACIFIC (PLATINUM) www.disguise.com (858) 391-3600; Fax (858) 391-3601 info@disguise.com 12120 Kear Place, Poway, CA 92064 Contact: David Coggin Specialties: Licensed costumes and accessories.

Discount: Generic Costumes: 14% from list price; Generic Accessories: 14% from list price; Licensed Costumes: 10% from list price; Licensed Accessories: 10% from list price.

Discounts do not apply to closeouts or special buys. Minimum opening order is $1000.

Minimum order to qualify for the Premium NCA Discount is $2500. Opening orders must be received by Disguise by 3/15/2021 to receive full benefits. No extensions will be granted. Members placing opening orders by 3/15/2021 will continue to receive full program discounts on all reorder activity for the 2020 season. Members who do not place orders by 3/15/2021 will realize only the benefits of the Disguise Standard Discount schedule and return policy. For members placing their opening order by 3/15/2021, a 1% Defective Allowance (DA) will apply to all orders placed for 2021. DA will be shown as a discount on each invoice. DA is in lieu of return of any defective product to Disguise.

Terms: Orders placed by 3/15/2021 exceeding $2500 net will receive Net 11/10/2021 dating terms. Orders b/w $1000 and $2500 will

the great discount. 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. NOTE: 2021 Vendor Buyer’s Group programs continue to come in. As of the printing of this issue, the Buyer’s Group Programs for 2021 are as follows. Watch your e-contacts for more information and updates.

receive Net 30 day terms. All payment terms subject to approval by Disguise/Jakks Credit Dept. NOTE: Delinquent accounts risk forfeiture of discounts and extended dating terms.

Credit Card Transactions are available through Disguise/Jakks Credit Dept. FOB Jakks DC’s – Walnut CA/Etobicoke ON. All orders placed for “FBA” will incur an 8% surcharge and require a $500 minimum order value per Amazon warehouse location. Contact local rep for more information. For total NCA purchases exceeding $1.495 million but less than $1.575 million, Disguise will rebate 1.0% of net purchases. For total purchases exceeding $1.575 million, Disguise will rebate 2.0% of net purchases. Net sales are defined as invoiced shipments minus any outstanding unpaid member balances as of February 1, 2022.

DREAMGIRL INTERNATIONAL (SILVER) www.dreamgirldirect.com (323) 268-0220 x208 ggabor@dgbrands.com 5548 Lindbergh Lane, Bell, CA 91504 Contact: Gihan Gabor Specialties: From loveable characters to exquisitely luxe historical favorites, Dreamgirl COSTUMES, WIGS, and ACCESSORIES offer exciting and cheeky dress up experiences for singles, couples or group-themed fun.

Discount: 3% after NCA membership confirmation.

Terms: Halloween dating available to credit approved customers.

DRESS UP AMERICA TOY INC. (SILVER) www.dressupamerica.com (718) 436-0031; Fax (718) 775-3200 sales@dressupamerica.com 4709 13th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219 Contact: Barry Grossman Specialties: We have excellent quality cos-

tumes and accessories for all ages as well as Pretend Play Dress Up. Discount: NCA members are entitled to a 10% discount. Free shipping for orders above $1,500. Halloween dating (subject to credit approval).

Terms: Halloween dating terms applicable only to Halloween orders shipping after June 1, 2021.

ELLIE SHOES INC. (SILVER) www.ellieshoes.com (714) 771-0015; Fax (714) 771-0057 info@ellieshoes.com 1050 N. Batavia Street #B, Orange, CA 92867 Contact: Leslie Wandell Specialties: Ellie Shoes has footwear for all your costuming needs!

Discount: 5% year round – Show specials to be announced.

Terms: Please have NCA membership number included on the purchase order, e-mail, or fax.

Halloween dating subject to CIT approval.

ELOPE, INC. (SILVER) www.elope.com (719) 328-1312; Fax (719) 328-1261 Kelli@elope.com 10035 Federal Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80908 Contact: Kelli Borel Riedmiller Specialties: High quality novelty and costume hats and accessories for licensed and elope originals.

Discount: 10% discount on first time order and 5% discount on all reorders (except Disney and sale items).

Terms: Credit card on first 3 orders. After 3rd order, Net 30 terms may be requested with approved credit.

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buyer’s group FUNNY FASHION USA (SILVER) www.funnyfashion.com (719) 260-7744; Fax (719) 260-7743 info@funnyfashion.com 1015 Garden of the Gods Rd., Suite 150 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 Contact: Diane Lutz Specialties: Balloons, balloon accessories, large selection of value-priced Halloween, Masquerade and Theatrical costumes and accessories.

Discount: Discounts are based on past and current purchases. Please inquire.

Terms: Halloween dating November 10, 2021 WAC, FOB Funny Fashion Distribution Point.

FUN WORLD/IN CHARACTER (SILVER) www.fun-world.net (516) 873-9000; Fax (516) 873-9005 AlexL@fun-world.net 80 Voice Road, Carle Place, NY 11514 Contact: Alex Losito Specialties: Costumes, Wigs, Masks, Decor, Pumpkin Carving, Weapons, Accessories, Make up, Santa suits, Beards, Valentines, St. Patrick’s Day, and Easter.

Discount: NCA Members automatically receive 10% off 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 and InCharacter/NCA order forms for exact price/discount.

Terms: Seasonal dating (net Nov. 10th) available upon credit review for USA-based customers.

We offer free freight on orders over $2,500 (or 300 lbs) per warehouse. This is only available to a USA-based ship-to address. International members must supply us with their freight forwarder details at time of order. Please call or email for details.

GO FUN FACE! (SILVER) www.gofunface.com (617) 307-6556 info@UniversityOutfitters.com 830 Franklin St., Duxbury, MA 02332 Contact: Keith Fotta Specialties: We specialize in unique animal and novelty masks that are unlike anything currently available anywhere.

Discount: 10% off wholesale for NCA memdecember 2020

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bers. PPD on 24pcs per shipment. If members cannot do the 24 pieces, they can buy less (minimum 10) FOB from our Fort Worth, TX factory.

Terms: Minimum order is 24 units, any style, and any combination - no restrictions. This means they can choose any combination of our designs to reach the 24 unit minimum. We will waive that for NCA members that would like to purchase less (minimum 10 units) FOB from our factory in Fort Worth TX. Graftobian Make-up (SILVER) www.graftobian.com (608) 222-7849; Fax (608) 222-7893 ordermakeup@graftobian.com 510 Tasman Street, Madison, WI 53714 Contact: Janine Wardale Specialties: Professional grade Theatrical and HD makeup suitable for TV/Film and stage.

Featuring ProPaint body paint, FX Aire and GlamAire Airbrush makeup, plus a full range of lusters, shimmers, glitter body sprays and more. With four types of blood, four shades of modeling wax, spirit gum, pro adhesive, plus a full range of Halloween kits. Proudly made in the USA. Discount: NCA members will receive a one tier level increase in their earned discount per the schedule on the back of our 2020-2021 wholesale catalog.

Terms: Orders for the year need to have exceeded $1,000 before discount level increase is activated. On-time payment is required to maintain discount.

HALCO (GOLD) www.halcoholidays.com (724) 929-7300; Fax (724) 929-7301 info@halcoholidays.com 723 East Railroad Ave, Verona, PA 15147 Contact: Terri Greenberg Specialties: High quality Santa Claus suits, Mrs. Claus, Elves, Santa’s Helpers, Santa & Mrs. Wigs & Beards, Hats, Stockings and Christmas accessories.

Discount: NCA members receive a 4% discount on orders placed by 5/31/21 plus 5% discount on orders of $1,500 or more. There is no minimum order.

Terms: Credit card or terms given to qualified accounts.

costumers.org

JACOBSON HAT COMPANY, INC. (SILVER) www.jhats.com (570) 342-7887 sales@jhats.com 1301 Ridge Row, Scranton, PA 18510 Contact: Jeff Jacobson Specialties: Costume Headwear and Accessories.

Discount: Case pack pricing for our new items.

Terms: Ship August 1 or sooner payable Nov. 1.

KRYOLAN PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP (SILVER) www.kryolan.com (415) 863-9684; Fax (707) 795-9059 a.newman@kryolan.com 364 Blodgett St., Cotati, CA 93931 Contact: Anne Newman Specialties: Aquacolor, UV reactive, Temp Hair color, Blood, Beards & Mustaches and of course over 20,000 sku’s for your makeup needs!

Discount: Get our highest margin discount for a full year! Low opening order and yearly minimums. Professional staff development and tester program.

Terms: Net 30 with approved credit.

MEHRON MAKEUP (SILVER) www.mehron.com (845) 426-1700; Fax (845) 426-1515 info@mehron.com 100 Red Schoolhouse Rd., Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 Contact: Katie Perez Specialties: Professional makeup for stage, screen, special FX, and beauty since 1927.

Discount: 5% off all qualifying orders; increases to 10% off once YTD purchases reach $2,500; 15% off once YTD purchases reach $5,000. Once achieved, the discounts apply for the rest of the year. Discount applies to 2021 Mehron Dealer Wholesale Pricing. $500 minimum first order, $200 minimum on additional orders. Discounts cannot be combined with other offers and apply to qualifying products. Discounts cannot be applied to previous purchases. Proof of membership must be presented with P.O. in order to receive Membership Discount.

Terms: If qualified, strict Net 30 Payment Terms apply. New accounts must meet Credit and Dealer Account requirements.

buyer’s group MORRIS COSTUMES (SILVER) www.morriscostumes.com (704) 332-3304 sean@morriscostumes.com 6900 Morris Estate Dr., Charlotte, NC 28262 Contact: Sean Morris Specialties: All things Halloween, including animatronic full-size creatures, Star Wars Darth Vader Helmets, Wigs, Fangs, etc. A full line of Christmas items, from Santa Suits, Wigs & Beards, Toy Bags, and Elf Suits to Christmas inflatable yard decorations.

Almost any celebrated day from Valentines, St. Patrick’s Day to the 4th of July, Morris has something for you.

Discount: 5% discount thru May 1st for orders $1,000 or more.

The Pirate Dressing (SILVER) www.thepiratedressing.com (321) 445-1837; Fax (888) 229-1577 info@thepiratedressing.com 10685-B Hazelhurst Drive, #12134, Houston, TX 77043 Contact: Aditya Aggarwal Specialties: Rental quality pirate, medieval, Renaissance and steampunk outfits.

Discount: Quantity discounts up to 15% offered to all registered customers. Also, NCA members are eligible for an additional 5% discount on orders above $500.

Terms: Discounts are only applicable for orders above $500.

RG COSTUMES & ACCESSORIES, INC. (SILVER) www.rgcostume.com (626) 858-9559; Fax (626) 858-9798 halloweenbyrg@aol.com 726 Arrow Grand Circle, Covina, CA 91722 Contact: Roger Lee Specialties: Costumes for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Period, Cosplay, School play and religious. Animal Onesies, Hoodie. Sexy Costumes. Wigs, Hats, Wings, accessories.

Discount: 15% discount off listed prices for orders over $500. No discount for order less than $500.

Terms: Halloween dating (11/1/2021) for order amount over $1,500. Net 30 days for order amount less than $1,500.

RUBIES II, LLC (PLATINUM) www.rubies.com (516) 326-1500; Fax (516) 326-1713 cinfo@rubies.com One Rubie Plaza, Richmond Hill, NY 11418 Contact: Joe Wozniak Specialties: Licensed and non-licensed Halloween Costumes and Accessories for the whole family including pets.

Discount: Please contact your local representative or Rubie’s customer service department at 516-326-1500 and ask about details on the New Rubie’s 2021 Discount Schedule.

SUNNYWOOD, INC. (gold) www.sunnywood.net (815) 675-9777; Fax (815) 675-9788 order@sunnywood.net 2750 Barney Ct., McHenry, IL 60051 Contact: Tammy Semiletow Specialties: Exquisite Tiaras, Headpieces, Men’s Crowns, Period Pieces, Flappers, Costumes, Santa Suits, Bunnies, Accessories and so much more.

Discount: All year long, you receive dozen pricing on single piece items and special promotions exclusively for NCA members.

Member Privileges cannot be used in combination with any other special discounts or promotions.

TRICK OR TREAT STUDIOS (SILVER) www.trickortreatstudios.com (831) 713-9665; Fax (831) 621-4763 sales@trickortreatstudios.com 1005 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062 Contact: Anthony Austin Specialties: We specialize in high-quality licensed and original designed masks, costumes, props, replicas, collectables, decor and accessories. With over 150 Licenses, Trick or Treat Studios will fulfil all your costume and collectables needs. Top Licenses include the Halloween Franchise (Michael Myers), The Universal Classic Monster, A Nightmare on Elm Street, the Child’s Play Franchise and much more!

Discount: Our discount for NCA members is 10% off orders over $1,000 and 5% off orders $500-$999.

UNDERWRAPS COSTUMES (SILVER) www.underwrapscostumes.com (818) 349-5300; Fax (818) 349-7200 info@underwraps.net 9600 Irondale Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311 Contact: Payman Shaffa Specialties: Children and adult costumes, accessories, props, masks and mascots.

Discount: 3% above regular discounts; additional discounts apply for early buy program.

Terms: Initial order must meet $500 minimum.

WEST BAY INC. (gold) www.westbayinc.com (323) 720-5777; Fax (323) 720-5799 contact@westbayinc.com 7245 E. Oxford Way, Commerce, CA 90040 Contact: Susan Yi Specialties: Fashion and Costume Wigs, Blush, Character Wigs, Glamour Eyez Eyelashes, Beards and Mustaches.

Discount: $1,000 to $1,500 = 5%; $1,501 to $2,500 = 10%; $2,501 to $3,500 = 12%; $3,501+ = 15%.

Terms: Minimum order per order = $300. Discounts apply on a per-order basis. If payment terms exist, late payments cancel all discounts.

All freight paid by buyer. All new accounts opened on credit card terms.

ZAGONE STUDIOS, LLC (silver) www.zagonestudios.com Phone: (773) 509-0610; Fax (773) 509-0613 francop@zagonestudios.com 4533 W. North Ave., Melrose Park, IL 60160 Contact: Franco Pacini Specialties: Halloween masks and costumes, accessories.

Discount: 5% for any orders over $500, 8% on any order over $1000. All orders must be paid with Credit Card at time of shipping or a check prior to shipping. Please provide order ship date and NCA number when ordering.

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december 2020

My Favorite Costume Ooollee Bricker Vintage Ooollee Augusta, Georgia What does a costumer do when a favorite costume tears beyond repair?

For Ooollee Bricker, the answer was simple: make it again! And that’s just what she did when she got to work and made the Baroque & Rococo period costume that has always been popular for theater productions and rentals at Vintage Ooollee—a shop in Augusta, Georgia that carries the largest selection of authentic vintage clothing and costume rentals in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).

“My original costume rental inventory was purchased from Fat Man’s Forest, a local shop

that had closed after 50 years, and many of the costumes were older and needed replacing,” Bricker recalls.

“This one is my favorite one in the shop because of the style, beautiful fabric and color usage.”

According to Bricker, the first time the new costume was used was when it was worn by a queen in a production at Storyland Theatre, a local children’s theater. “It has been rented numerous times since then and is a favorite of many customers,” Bricker reports.

What is your favorite costume? To be considered for an upcoming My Favorite Costume profile, email Editor Kathleen Furore at kfurore@yahoo.com.

Friend and Photographer

The beautiful picture of Vintage Ooollee’s Baroque & Rococo period costume is the handiwork of photographer Sally Kolar—a photographer who has become Ooollee Bricker’s very close friend over the years.

“Sally and I have worked on many photo shoots

together…One year I invited Sally to attend another event that I costumed called Wet Paint, an annual art sale and party for the Greater Augusta Arts Council,” Bricker remembers. “The year that I invited Sally, it happened to be on my birthday. When they sang Happy Birthday to me that night, I found out that Sally’s birthday was the day before mine. No wonder we work so well together! Running a costume shop has brought so many people into my life especially all of my wonderful employees. More importantly it has been so much fun!”

Photogragh by Sally Kolar december 2020

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costumers.org