March/April 2020 Costumer

The

The Official Publication of the National Costumers Association, Inc.

An NCA Report from New Orleans 2020 Buyer’s Group

Takin’ It To the Streets: The Streetwear & Hip-Hop Scene

March/April 2020

costumers.org

CONTENTS

10

features

10 Takin’ It to The Streets: A look at the streetwear & hip-hop costume scene

14

By Kathleen Furore

20 2020 Buyer’s Group departments

6

In the Industry—an NCA Report from the New Orleans HPE Show

14 Member Profile—Looks Costuming on Haight 18 Product Parade 24 My Favorite Costume

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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

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

Have You Paid Your 2020 Dues?

Don’t risk missing out on all of the new benefits we are developing,

*indicates end of current term

ranging from educational webinars to business-building

Like the NCA on Facebook!

programs. Pay your dues today!

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

Questions? Email Ed Avis at executivedirector@costumers.org

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All-NEW COSTUMES, ACCESSORIES,dress-up and playwear from underwraps costumes!

CONTACT US

(818)349-5300 Toll-Free (888) 229-2879 info@underwraps.net

PRESIDENT ’S LETTER Presidential greetings from Georgia, Spring is right around the corner, and for many that means

“spring cleaning” for your home. But have you given a thought to “spring cleaning” at your business? If you haven’t done so in a while, now is the perfect time! While others may consider “spring cleaning” as a way to look at their business efficien-

cies, I feel that sprucing up your store is just as important. Just a few days ago I started this sometime tedious, sometimes

arduous task at my own store. Don’t know where to start? Just take a cue from how you would deep clean your home:

(1) Start with your windows. Besides cleaning inside and out yourself, or hiring a professional

window cleaner, check the signage or pictures painted on your shop’s windows. Have they been there for years? If so, it’s time to reinvest and get some attention from passersby!

(2) Check the walls and ceilings. What is hanging off of them? Make sure you are dusting the shelves and the products on display. When older product is moved around in a store, it tends

to sell better. Make new signage for products you move to push sales! Take a broom and sweep the corners for spiderwebs. What about a fresh coat of paint?

(3) Look at what is sitting on your floors. No matter what fixtures you are using to display your costumes or products with, it all needs cleaning. From using a feather duster on the racks and

packaging to cleaning the shelves to going through all hanging product to make sure everything looks good on the hangers, this task is definitely one that takes time. While you are doing this, consider switching product and displays around; this not only gives the appearance of “new

product,” but also lets customers who may only go to one area in your store to be exposed to

other products they may never see. Have a new look by just moving your furniture around, too!

(4) Check out your flooring. If you have rugs, rent a steam cleaner and deep clean them. Your tile floors should be mopped well—perhaps you need to add wax or repaint your flooring like I do!

(5) Last, but certainly not least, look at your light fixtures. Replace any burned out bulbs. We

started changing out our light bulbs to the new LED lights even before they burned out. LED lights will save you money on energy costs and make the store look brighter—what a difference it makes!

Doing all the above will make your customers “feel the vibe”—and you also may find that

a little “spring cleaning” puts a little “spring” in your step. You will feel more energized, and so will your employees—and this always translates into good customer service and potentially more sales! Now who is ready to have some fun?!

Until next time, Marion Bradley, President National Costumers Association Discount Costumes, Warner Robins, Georgia MARCH/APRIL 2 0 2 0

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

The Costumer 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 Association Report: Costumers Take On New Orleans

New Orleans is known for Mardi Gras and its overall festive atmosphere—so it makes sense that the Crescent City is beloved by costumers. That fact was evident when costumers from all over the country hit town for the 2020 Halloween & Party Expo, held January 17 to 19 at the New Orleans Convention Center. It was a fun but busy time for the NCA: The association hosted a booth at the show, and held its 2020 Business Meeting and Winter Board Meeting in NOLA. Here’s a look back at the NCA’s time in New Orleans.

The HPE Show Floor The NCA booth, which included a large lounge area, was a key meeting place for NCA members and show attendees alike. Four beautiful costumes provided by NCA members Linda Foat (A&B), Pam Markel (C), and Lori Hammes (D)

D

C

Merlyn Foat with Addison Lee of West Bay

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drew people into the booth; and Markel’s costume, part of a silent silent auction, raised $250 for the NCA Scholarship Fund.

The show also was a great place for new NCA managers Ed Avis and Kathleen Furore to meet costumers.org

members and learn more about the costuming industry.

Avis and Furore have published The Costumer magazine for the past five years and became the overall administrators of the association in December.

B “It was great to meet so many NCA members at the show,” Furore says. “We also got a lot of great new story ideas that we’ll be able to incorporate in coming issues of the magazine and on the website.”

Avis and Merlyn Foat toured the show floor and met with dozens of NCA Vendor Members. Their visits resulted in a photo gallery on the NCA website, www.costumers.org.

The Business Meeting

The NCA held its official annual Business Meeting on Saturday evening, January 18.

After a Meet-and-Greet reception for members, NCA President Marion Bradley opened the meeting and thanked NCA’s Gold and Platinum Vendor Members for their support—West Bay, Halco and Sunnywood (Gold) and Rubies, Forum and Smiffy’s (Platinum). Bradley introduced Avis, who said he feels there is a lot of interesting, innovative things going on in the costume industry, and he wants to help raise the NCA’s profile in that industry.

Terri Greenberg, owner of Halco and chair of NCA’s Bereavement Committee, expressed condolences on the loss of NCA past president Herb Easley of Easley’s Fun Shop; Lyn Flaharty, wife of board member Gene Flaharty of Mehron; and Bette Mitcheltree of Arlene’s Costumes.

Avis then delivered the communications report. He explained that he and Furore are professional journalists who believe that making the NCA website more news-oriented will help raise the organization’s profile, draw more traffic to the website, and please vendor members who are advertising on the website. “Increasing the quality of the information coming from the NCA will help the organization attract members and help the industry as a whole,” Avis said.

Avis also announced that the NCA is launching a series of four webinars, as well as virtual roundtables. “The roundtables are online forums in which members can meet other members and discuss whatever issues they want,” he explained.

Foat introduced former NCA treasurer Jane Powell and former NCA president and Harrelson Award winner Terri Greenberg. Foat was also recognized as a former past president.

To conclude the business meeting, Louella Torrence was nominated for another term as treasurer. She was elected by acclamation.

The Board Meeting The NCA Board met on the Monday following the Expo.

Among issues discussed were the mission of the association.

The association will focus on building vendor/buyer relations, and emphasize the social/networking aspects of membership.

Avis explained that he will explore programs such as an aggregated buy that would reduce prices and minimums for Buyer Members and increase overall sales for Vendor Members. He also suggested launching a Costumers Advisory Panel, which is a group of Buyer Members who can evaluate new products and promotions from Vendor Members.

The Board discussed topics for the upcoming series of webinars and details of the virtual roundtables. It was decided that the virtual roundtables should be dedicated and targeted to different categories of members, such as retail members, rental members and other subgroups as appropriate.

During the committee reports, it was confirmed that the NCA will continue to publish four issues of The Costumer each year. In addition, the board decided to open new Instagram and Twitter accounts, since the usernames and passwords for the existing accounts were lost when a key employee of the

The NCA Board of Directors (l to r): Marion Bradley, Linda AdamsFoat, Tyler Volz, Lori Hammes, Pam Markel

previous administrator changed jobs.

The meeting concluded with a discussion of future conventions. It was decided that a committee would be formed to explore the options.

Mask-Making Webinar Scheduled

Would you like to learn how to make masks that you can profitably sell or rent? Then don’t miss the NCA members-only webinar on April 7 at 2 p.m. Central.

This webinar, led by NCA past president Linda Adams Foat, will show you step-by-step how to create beautiful masks that your customers will adore using many common materials, such as feathers, cardboard, and “Sculpt or Coat.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to create a new profit center for your business. costumers.org

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To register for the webinar, go to www.costumers.org/ncawebinar-making-masks/. This is the first of four webinars that will be held in 2020.

Join the NCA’s New Advisory Panel

We want your input! The NCA is forming the Costumer Advisory Panel, a group of members who will help NCA staff learn about members’ needs and preferences.

The panel will be asked to share their opinions about programs and editorial content in Costumer magazine and www.costumers.org. The panel also may be asked to evaluate products and promotions from Vendor Members.

Everything will be handled via email—no need to travel to meetings! If you would like to join the panel, please visit www.costumers.org/nca-forming-costumer-advisory-panel/

NCA Video Series Underway

Costume shop owners enjoy seeing what other costume shop owners are doing.

That concept is behind a new series of videos being produced by NCA staff.

The videos consist of interviews with NCA members in their locations. Executive Director Ed Avis traveled to Denver in mid-February to interview Kevin Pohle, co-owner of NCA member shop The Wizard’s Chest, for the first video. Pohle shared a wealth of information about how his shop succeeds— information you’ll be able to find in the 3-part video series scheduled to be posted on www.costumers.org in March.

Meet Your Peers…Online!

One of the benefits of attending a convention is that you can casually chat with friends and new acquaintances. Those face-to-face interactions are often educational and sometimes lead to new business opportunities. Now you can have that experience without leaving your office thanks to a new series of “Virtual Roundtables” that NCA is sponsoring.

Virtual Roundtables are online meetings using GoToMeeting, a system that allows the participants to see and hear each other through the computer. Each roundtable will be limited to six participants so that everyone can share. The conversation will be free flowing; the moderator may suggest a topic or two, but the participants themselves will drive the conversation. Each roundtable will be limited to 60 minutes.

The first Virtual Roundtable is scheduled for April 7 at 10 a.m. Central.

To register visit www.costumers.org/virtual-roundtable/

Kevin Pohle and Ed Avis

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Takin’ It To the Streets:

The streetwear & hip-hop scene

By Kathleen Furore Hip-hop may have a negative rep in some circles…but whatever you think of this musical genre, it is here to stay—and so are the streetwear and hip-hop costumes dance studios, gymnastics and cheer groups, school drama departments and local theaters are turning to for performances featuring music from the hip-hop scene.

Are the costumes these dancers, gymnasts, cheerleaders and actors don during their time on stage something that might bring new business to your shop?

Knowing what the trending fashions are can help you decide what you might want to offer in-store…and it will give you information that will come in handy if a someone comes to you for help designing costumes for a hip-hop-themed recital or production!

According to vendors who offer hip hop-inspired apparel, and Pinterest pages featuring hip-hop costumes, items these hip-hop loving groups are turning to include: S Athletic-inspired jerseys (often with metallic accents) S Jogger-style pants S Oversized tops S Leggings S Crop tops S Mesh on tops and bottoms S Ripped/torn separates (jeans, leggings, tops) S Beanies and baseball caps S Sneakers (high-top and low-top, sometimes with sequins) S Combat-style boots S Hoodies and bomber-style jackets

Trending Hip Hop Fashions When you think of streetwear and hip-hop apparel, ripped jeans and sweatpants might be the first things that come to mind. But while those are ubiquitous items within that community, there’s a lot more to it than those two items.

When it involves buying streetwear/hip-hop apparel for a performance, performers want clothing and accessories that have an urban-chic sensibility but are still comfortable and easy to wear.

Do you carry streetwear and hip-hop-style costumes or dancewear in your shop? Have you ever designed costumes for a dance group or play that had a streetwear/hip-hop sensibility? Let us know and we’ll feature some info and pictures in an upcoming issue of The Costumer! Email Editor Kathleen Furore at kfurore@yahoo.com with the info.

A Brief Look at Hip-Hop Fashion The story of the evolution of streetwear and hip-hop fashion is an interesting one—whether you ever decide to embrace hip-hop costuming in your shop or not. Here are some highlights from stories about the history of hip-hop apparel, which the story “Hip-Hop Fashion” at lovetoknow.com/ calls “a self-conscious rumination of words and music to an obstinate expression of contemporary urban life through corporal gestures and apparel.”

MEarly clothes were functional and included conventional items— multicolored appliqué leather jackets, sheepskin coats, car coats, straight leg corduroy or denim jeans, hooded sweatshirts, athletic warm-up pants, mock turtlenecks, and sneakers and caps.

MBaggy apparel shapes that disguise the contours of the body were introduced in the 1980s.

MDuring the late 1990s the ubiquitous oversized white T-shirt, basketball vests, and hockey shirts became staples of the expression. Baggy denim jeans or camouflage cargo pants worn in a low-slung manner, backpacks, combat- or hiking-styled boots or sports shoes were complemented with tattoos and shaved, plaited, or dreadlocked hairstyles.

MDuring the early 2000s, the archetypal hip-hop look consisted of baseball caps emblazoned with insignia from the Negro leagues and football teams and well-known fashion designers. Woolen beanie hats and bandannas were worn singularly or together.

Goose down jackets or other foul-weather outerwear teamed with hooded sweatshirts.

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Source: “Hip-Hop Fashion” at lovetoknow.com/ Another article to check out if you’re interested in learning more: “How hip-hop fashion went from the streets to high fashion” at latimes.com/

Member Profile Looks Costuming on Haight “Creative Crew” brings new life to a San Francisco shop

By Kathleen Furore

The 2020 Halloween & Party Expo in New Orleans offered the opportunity to meet many NCA members—Austin Efurd, owner of Looks Costuming on Haight, was one of them. The story he shared about taking ownership of Costuming on Haight, a shop that had been a San Francisco institution for almost 3 decades, is a fascinating one that sheds some muchneeded light on how to breathe new life into a bricks-andmortar business!

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NCA: How did you first become involved with Costuming on Haight?

Efurd: I had quit a corporate gig, traveled a while, and thought I was going to go back into the corporate world. Then I thought, “What am I inspired by?” An artist I followed on Instagram mentioned that Costuming on Haight was hiring for Halloween, and I thought, “Ok, I have a little time.” So I

sent in my resume, interviewed, and was hired for the October 2017 season. It was supposed to be a gig for one month.

NCA: How did you end up owning the shop?

Efurd: After that Halloween, the owner asked if I would stay on and become Head of Community [which involved community outreach]. A few months later, there was an announcement that the shop was closing—I thought I was going to be asked to help close it. But it had been an institution in this spot for more than 25 years, and I thought, “That doesn’t make sense!” I dug a little deeper and realized that while the current model wasn’t sustainable, if we could change some things, the shop could survive. I asked the owner if he would be open to a bulk sale, named what I wanted to buy, and contacted the leasing agent. I had a good relationship with the owner of the building, who lived above the shop, and he agreed to keep the rent at the same rate. We changed the name a bit—to Looks Costuming on Haight—and the bulk sale officially went through in October 2018. It was stressful planning for that Halloween because I couldn’t do rentals until the sale closed. But I could buy stuff from vendors…and we ended up having one of the biggest days the shop had ever had that year.

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Owner Austin Efurd

After 40 Years!

Performance artists and “Creative Crew” members Jader and Abominatrix inspire and support the shop’s customers who are looking for unique pieces to express a part of themselves.

NCA: How have you reinvigorated the business since you’ve at the helm?

Efurd: Customers are not coming in for just costumes anymore—most of the time they can buy them online for $5 to $10 over wholesale, so if that’s all you have they probably won’t buy it.

You have to create an experience because they’re coming in for creativity! We’ve brought in what we call San Francisco’s “Creative Creatures” to be part of our “Creative Crew.” These are artists…creative people who need jobs and are part of the community.

So we can do creative consulting now. People with makeup experience are in our makeup department, people who are inspired by wigs are in the wig area, and people who are good at coming up with creative looks are on the sales floor. We’re investing in them and they are investing in the shop…It’s this “Creative Crew” that’s making the shop work!

Akron Design & Costume is for sale Theater Rentals, Whole Shows, General Stock, Easter, Christmas. Retail Inventory, Fixtures, Black Grid Fabrics and Sewing Room Supplies.

Starting May 1

Check out akrondesign.com

Call Debbie, 330-644-0425

NCA: So, how has business been?

Efurd: We’ve increased revenue already. We did close to $100,000 more in sales for the 2019 Halloween season than we did in 2018!

Have a story you’d like to tell in an upcoming Q&A? Please email Kathleen Furore at kfurore@yahoo.com to let her know! costumers.org

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Sunnywood Bunny Mascots. Perfect for

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Call for details on our mascot sale! 815-675-9777, ext 105; sunnywood.net; email tsemiletow@sunnywood.net MARCH/APRIL 2 0 2 0

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Fun World Hooded Cat Poncho. Your customers will be “the cat’s meow” when they wear this Hooded Cat Poncho (CAE12047). It includes a poncho with fur trim and a hood with attached ears and collar. 516-873-9000; fun-world.net

Starline’s Glamour Muerta. The gorgeous Glamour Muerta Costume lets revelers get into the Halloween

spirit and celebrate Day of the Deadstyle! Black sequin mermaid dress

has red ruffle train, off-the-shoulder flower details and bright red halter

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.

ties. 949-209-8804;starline.la

Like the NCA on Facebook!

J Templeton Skirts. This red

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425-372-7302; jtempleton.com

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

Speak Up!

NCA is hosting a series of Virtual Roundtables, which are convenient online discussions among NCA members. The Roundtables are a great opportunity to ask questions, seek advice, and just chat with your costumer peers!

Learn more at www.costumers.org costumers.org

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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 708-646-2799 so we can assist the supplier in publishBEISTLE COMPANY (SILVER) www.beistle.com (717) 532-2131 mrstouffer@beistle.com 1 Beistle Plaza, Shippensburg, PA 17257 Contact: Mark Stouffer Specialties: Costume accessories, hats, and beads. Seasonal and theme decorations and accessories, Elvira licensed décor.

Discount: 10% discount, prepaid freight on $400 orders.

Terms: 1%/10 Net 30, Halloween dating – pending credit approval. Additional terms and conditions on back page of catalog.

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: Ken Russell 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 3/16/2020 to receive full benefits. No extensions will be granted. Members placing opening orders by 3/16/2020 will continue to receive full program discounts on all reorder activity for the 2020 season. Members who do not place orders by 3/16/2020 will realize only the benefits of the Disguise Standard Discount schedule and return policy. For members placing their opening order by 3/16/2020, a 1% Defective Allowance (DA) will apply to MARCH/APRIL 2 0 2 0

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ing the 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. NOTE: 2020 Vendor Buyers Group

programs continue to come in. As of the printing of this issue the Buyers Group Programs for 2020 are as follows. Watch your e-contacts for more information and updates.

all orders placed for 2020. 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 3/16/2020 exceeding $2500 net will receive Net 11/10/2020 dating terms. Orders b/w $1000 and $2500 will 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, 2021.

DREAMGIRL INTERNATIONAL (SILVER) www.dreamgirldirect.com (323) 268-0220 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 groupthemed fun.

Discount: 3% after NCA membership confirmation.

Terms: Halloween dating available to credit approved customers.

costumers.org

DRESS UP AMERICA TOY INC. (SILVER) www.dressupamerica.com (718) 436-0031; Fax (718) 775-3200 sales@dressupamerica.com 234 Lee Ave. 8th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11206 Contact: Barry Grossman Specialties: We have excellent quality costumes 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, 2020.

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, 10% from Jan 1 – March 31, 2020, 12% at Halloween & Party Expo ( Jan 17 – Jan 19, 2020).

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 Andrew.hussmann@elope.com 10035 Federal Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80908 Contact: Andrew Hussmann Specialties: High quality novelty and costume hats and accessories for licensed and elope originals.

Discount: 10% discount on first time order

buyer’s group 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.

FORUM NOVELTIES INC. (PLATINUM) www.forumnovelties.com (516) 536-4600; Fax (516) 536-9741 info@forumnovelties.com 1770 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747 Contact: Robert Kamin Specialties: Costumes, masks, makeup, wigs, décor, props, Halloween accessories, jokes, tricks, novelties, Mardi Gras, St. Pats, luau, Christmas.

Discount: 5% discount on all orders on all categories; 7% on orders over $5,000; 10% on orders over $10,000; 15% for orders over $15,000. Discounts will be given retroactively at the end of the season.

Terms: Halloween dating November 10th.

FROGGY’S FOG LLC (silver) www.froggysfog.com (615) 469-4906, x26; Fax (615) 346-9430 sales@froggysfog.com 302 Rutherford Lane, Columbia, TN 38401 Contact: Chris Markgraf Specialties: Fog, haze, snow and bubble machines as well as theatrical effects machines.

All fluids are made in the USA and NAFTA certified.

Discount: NCA Group Discounts are reflective of 5-10% off standard wholesale pricing on all fluids and machines.

Terms: Net 60 terms all year. Halloween terms on all orders between August 1 and September 1. Freight is FOB Columbia, TN 38401. Free freight on orders of $5,500 or more in lower 48 states only.

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, 2020 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, weapons, accessories, décor, make up, Santa suits, beards, Valentines, St. Patrick’s Day, 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 please call or email for details.

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 2019-20 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 5/31/20 plus 5% discount on orders of $1,500 or more. There is no minimum order.

Terms: Credit card or terms given to qualified accounts.

JACOBSON HAT COMPANY, INC. (SILVER) www.jhats.com (570) 342-7887 sales@jhats.com 11301 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.

JWY COSTUME & PARTY DÉCOR PRODUCTION (SILVER) www.costumedecorproduction.com (408) 757-2717 Jwy_costume@hotmail.com RM 231 Bridgepointe Pkwy, San Mateo, CA 94404 Contact: Emily Liu Specialties: Cupcake Decoration, Cake Decoration.

Discount: 10% discount.

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 fifty thousand 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.

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buyer’s group LEG AVENUE (SILVER) www.legavenue.com (888) 453-4283, ext. 356 Fax (877) 453-4329 or (626) 581-1881 letty@legavenue.com 19601 E. Walnut Dr. South City of Industry, CA 91748 Contact: Letty Cazares Specialties: Costumes, hosiery and lingerie.

Discount: 8% Terms: November dating (based on CIT approval) 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: Peter Sandusky 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 2019 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.

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.

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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 (11/1/2020) for order amount over $1,500. Net 30 days for order amount less than $1,500.

ROCKSTAR WIGS INC. (SILVER) www.rockstarwigs.com (832) 742-9705; Fax (281) 605-5484 service@rockstarwigs.com 3250 Bingle Road, Houston, TX 77050 Contact: Anna Reger Specialties: Premium synthetic wigs and eye lashes.

Discount: Wholesale pricing to members.

Terms: Must have a wholesale account with Rockstar. Application available on our website in PDF.

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RUBIE’S COSTUME COMPANY (PLATINUM) www.rubies.com (718) 326-1500; Fax (516) 326-1713 cinfo@rubies.com One Rubie Plaza, Richmond Hill, NY 11418 Contact: Lenney Peters 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 2020 Discount Schedule. In addition, if your purchases exceed $25,000 in shipped invoices, you will be enrolled in the New Rubie’s Reward Program.

SASSY ROYALS HATS (LORDS & LADIES) (SILVER) www.sassyroyals.com (337) 540-3098, Fax (337) 439-0807 annegmonlezun@yahoo.com 801 West Bayou Pines Dr., Lake Chartres, LA 70601 Contact: Anne Monlezun Specialties: Gatsby headbands, Victoria, Fashion, Showgirl, headpieces and hats for all occasions.

Discount: Free shipping (must identify as an NCA member).

SMIFFY’S (PLATINUM) www.smiffys.com (888) 776-4339 ext 701, Fax (888) 776-4339 maxineandrews@smiffys.com Heapham Rd. South, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, UK Contact: Maxine Andrews Specialties: Costumes, wigs, accessories, seasonal, sexy costumes.

Discount: 15% all year round (exc. licensed and sale items) Terms: Seasonal dating for accounts with approved credit terms. Ship out of Indianapolis $150 free freight.

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, Cos-

buyer’s group tumes, Santa Suits, Bunnies, Accessories and so much more.

Discount: All year long, you receive dozen pricing on single piece items.

Terms: Net 60 terms on all orders under $500 (with approved credit). Net 90 terms on all orders over $500 (with approved credit). 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 3085 Carriker Lane, Ste. E, Soquel, CA 95073 Contact: Teresa Ganaden Specialties: We specialize in high-quality licensed masks, costumes, props, and accessories.

Discount: Our discount for NCA members is 10% off orders over $1000 and 5% off orders $500-$999.

Terms: In order to guarantee full fulfillment of your order, a 50% deposit must be paid by March 15th. Once a deposit is paid, customers will receive the same discount on any size reorder.

UNDERWRAPS COSTUMES (SILVER) www.underwrapscostumes.com (818) 349-5300; Fax (818) 349-7200 info@underwraps.net 9600 Irondale Avenue 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, Los Angeles, CA 90040 Contact: Addison Lee 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%; $3,500+ = 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 (773) 509-0610; Fax (773) 509-0613 francop@zagonestudios.com 4533 W. North Ave., Melrose Park, IL 60160 Contact: Franco Pacini Specialties: Halloween masks, costumes and accessories.

Discount: 12% for orders over $500, if they are shipped when the order is placed and a credit card is charged; 8% for orders above $500 if the items are shipped the third week in August, in which case the payment is due upon shipment.

Terms: For discount, credit card at time of order to be charged when order is shipped.

NCA Platinum, Gold & Silver Vendor Members Support our National Costumers Association vendor members as they continue to support you. At the time this publication went to press, the vendor member list for 2020 is as follows:

Disguise

Forum Novelties HALCO

Beistle Co. Diamond Collection Dreamgirl International Dress Up America Ellie Shoes, Inc. Elope, Inc. Froggy’s Fog Funny Fashion, Inc. FunWorld

Platinum

Rubie’s Costume Company

Gold

Sunnywood

silver

Smiffy’s

West Bay Inc.

Ghoulish Productions Graftobian Make-up Company Jacobson Hat Company Kalan LP Kryolan Professional Make-Up Leg Avenue Mehron Morris Costumes PirateDressing

Rasta Imposta RG Costumes & Accessories Rockstar Wigs Seasons USA Starline Costumes Trick or Treat Studios Underwraps Costumes Zagone Studios

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My Favorite Costume Debbie Meredith, Owner Akron Design & Costume Akron, Ohio akrondesign.com

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Debbie Meredith’s first “claim to fame” came courtesy of Fruit of the Loom.

She’d made the costumes for that company’s commercials back in 1978, and also was in a club that held big Halloween parties. It was then, in the basement of her lakefront home, that her business was born.

“People told me I was good at making costumes, so I started renting costumes the next year with 35 costumes,” Meredith recalls. “Twelve years later, I rented 720 with a knuckle buster credit card machine and a shoe box for a cash drawer. Oh, how times have changed!”

Two moves and 40+ years later, Akron Design and Costume has grown into a 20,000-sq.-ft. shop in Akron, Ohio—a business Meredith has decided to sell this year.

Here, this long-time costumer and member of the National Costumers Association talks about the costumes she created for her favorite show—the Lion King, a production put on by a local school in 2017. She also shares how she feels about leaving the business after more than four decades.

The Costumer: How did you go about crafting the costumes for such an ambitious production? Were there any challenges in making the Lion King costumes you can share?

Meredith: That teacher [who worked on the production] had taught a student who went on to be in the traveling Lion King show. So, he was familiar with the fabrics and overall look. I had collected animal print fabrics for years anticipating a show like this, and then found out they were all wrong. OMG! The teacher MARCH/APRIL 2 0 2 0

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room—and then you have to make up really big carry bags to keep them in!

The Costumer: How do you feel about selling your business?

Meredith: I could go on making more [costumes], but the time has come to retire—and now it will be all up for sale after show season. But, dang, I still have fabric left! And I’m a gardener.

So even though I love to sew, I’m tired of the deadlines and laundry and repairs. I own a school building with a private sewing room and a classroom set up to teach sewing, when I want

had a lady sculpt a few heads for the lionesses and then we spent a month sculpting and hand-painting 20 more heads. I hand-made fabric feathers for Mufasa as there is no fur in this show.

And all of these were made on a ball cap, my favorite headgear. Sheets and other strange fabrics made the lioness pants, tube tops and drapes that connected the headpiece through the legs and attached to the front of the pants.

We have a local shop that prints on fabric, so for the wildebeests, gazelles, elephant and rhino heads we had the hand-painted design done by them and printed on an eight-foot-wide piece of fabric that weighed 65 pounds on the cardboard roll. It took another week to cut apart and then order the crosslinked foam from a company that deals with NASA [ John H. Glenn Research Center]—really! NASA happens to be very close to Cleveland, but still a semi truck had to deliver $2,000 worth of this foam. Add 10 pounds of hot glue and another month. Elephant and rhino bodies and butts take up so much

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to. Some rooms are rented, but I have six rooms on the third floor to myself. So, this summer, I decided [I will] close the door on the shop and play with hostas and day lilies. And I get to see these from the roof top of that school building. I love the NCA and all things about it, but retirement will be welcome!

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