Costumer magazine, December 2022

in the industry

NcA’s 100th Birthday Bash Will re-live History, Look Forward

it’s rare that an association gets to celebrate a centennial, so the national Costumers Association is planning an extraordinary event to honor this momentous birthday. The celebration, August 4-6 in india napolis, will transport attendees back to the earliest days of the nCA and honor key historical events in the decades following. The event also will include educational opportunities so that members can be inspired to grow their businesses.

“The nCA has such a wonderfully rich history, and we truly want to honor that,” says Pam Markel, nCA president. “At the same time, we’ll be looking forward by offering educational courses to help our members succeed.”

remembering o ur roots

The Friday night opening party will have a “speakeasy” theme with the sights and sounds of the Prohibition era, the likes of which have not been seen since the passage of the 21st Amendment. remember, forbidden fruit is always the sweetest! Guests will be asked to wear 1920s costumes, the dinner and drinks will be inspired by Jazz Age recipes, and a photo and memorabilia display will show off the association’s earliest mo ments. Bust out those newsboy hats and beaded headbands and join us for a roaring good time.

The times-gone-by fun will continue on saturday evening with a Bal Masque-themed party. The elegant sit-down dinner will honor past presidents, harrelson Award winners, harry Palmer Award winners, honorary Life members and unsung heroes. several awards will be presented. Another highlight of the evening will be visual presentation of the nCA’s history in 25-year increments.

“The party on saturday will really honor the people who have made the nCA a success,” Markel says. “And, of course, we’ll end the evening by sharing an amazing 100th birthday cake!”

education

Celebrating history is fun, but looking forward is also important. Convention attendees will be able to attend two educational events on saturday morning and two on satur

day afternoon. The exact topics of the education are still being decided, but they will be designed to help members succeed in their businesses. expert trainers and panelists will ensure that the educational content of the convention is point-on for bricks-and-mortar costume retailers.

costs, reservations

The convention will be held at the embassy suites by hil ton indianapolis north. We have negotiated an excellent room rate for the hotel, just $139 per night, free breakfast and highspeed internet included. The fee to attend the event, which will include the Friday and saturday night dinners, lunch on satur day, and the four educational events, will be $279, with an “early bird” registration fee of just $249. Look for the opportunity to make reservations when you receive your 2023 dues renewal.

“We hope to see many of our friends at this event, and we look forward to meeting many people whom we have not yet met,” Markel says. “There will be something fun and inspiring for everyone there. This event will go down in nCA history –don’t miss it!”

see What’s coming in 2023!

Wondering what’s going to sell well in your store next year? Be sure to attend the halloween & Party expo, January 10-12 at The Mirage in Las Vegas. nCA members can register for free — visit www.costumers.org for a link.

The nCA will have a comfortable lounge (booth 2311) at the show where you can rest your feet, chat with other mem bers, read The Costumer magazine, or take care of any nCA administrative issues.

The advantages of attending are numerous: you’ll see thousands of new product releases all under one roof, benefit from money-saving show specials from exhibitors, and have the opportunity to see and touch products in person. And you’ll enjoy the lunches, snacks and happy hours and a snow-free trip to Las Vegas!

hotel rates at The Mirage start as low as $69/night (plus taxes and fees). We hope to see you there!

in the industry

c hocolate Walrus: All customers get a great experience

new nCA Member Chocolate Walrus in reno, nevada, which specializes in “adult” cos tumes, knows that customers come in all shapes and sizes, and they make sure everyone has a great experience. For example, those seeking plus-size costumes don’t have to look far, nor do they have to look in a special section of the store.

“We feel it’s important to cater to every body type, and we don’t make plus size a separate section — they are mixed in with the regular sizes,” says Caitlyn rounds, the store’s general manager. “We’re in a time now when you’re allowed to feel sexy regardless of your size.”

The store’s commitment to serving all cus tomers has helped make it a success. The store, which opened in 2005 and is owned by tammy Borde, features lingerie, corsets and other “sexy”

items, but about half the store is devoted to costumes, rounds says.

“We have everything from French maids all the way to super heroes and witches,” rounds says. “it’s a really cool store.”

Of course, a common question people ask when they hear about the store is where the name “Chocolate Walrus” came from. rounds says the origin of the name is somewhat mys terious. Borde was not the first owner, and that was the name when she bought it, but the most likely story is that the store began as a chocolate retailer and evolved into its current form.

“i don’t know how accurate that is, but that’s what i’m sticking with,” rounds says, laughing.

The Chocolate Walrus joined the nCA in early October. if you’re in reno and get the chance, be sure to stop by and welcome them!

Other recent new MeMbers

Buyer MeMBers

Bloomin Deals Costume Company

Cocoa, Florida

Mr. C’s Boom ‘N Holidays Alma, MI

Miss Claudia’s Vintage & Costumes

New Orleans, LA

Vendor MeMBers

Convertex, Inc. (fabric for dance, theater)

The Functional Chocolate Company

MOM – My Other Me Fun Company (costumes)

in the industry

H

ALLoW eeN 2022:

s olid sales, rentals kept registers ringing

By ed Avis

sales around hallow een are essential for most costume businesses, and it looks like things went pretty well this year. An nCA survey about halloween and subsequent interviews with shop owners revealed that the season was not fantastic for most, but overall, cash registers were ringing.

“halloween was re ally good for us,” says Larry docktor, owner of Broadway Costume Theatrical supply in sacramento. “i would say from a dollar perspective i was up about 15 percent over last year. even though the last couple of years were COVid years, 2021 was down only about 5 percent from 2019. so everything has been growing and moving and staying steady on track.”

According to the nCA survey, 30 percent of shops reported that costume sales this year were much better than 2021, and 19 percent said they were somewhat better. not everybody was up: twenty-two percent of respondents said sales were flat and the remaining 29 percent said sales were worse or much worse.

“i don’t know how much better or sales were percentagewise, but they were better,” says susan stringer, owner of Beauty and the Beast Costumes in Chattanooga, tennessee. “There were a lot of people who came in and said, ‘i came here when i was a kid and i’m glad to see you’re still open.’”

WHAt Drove t H e DemAND halloween fell on a Monday this year, and that’s tradition ally a decent – but not ideal – day for it, since celebrants can hold parties the entire preceding weekend. What other factors helped sales?

For Anne dorsey, owner of McCabe’s Costumes in Green ville, north Carolina, some successful promotions helped. she placed an ad on the tV and internet channel Freeform for the entire month of October, and the local Chamber of Commerce stopped by her store and created a video that promoted her store as a great place for costumes.

“The Chamber video got us more business than anything else,” she reports. “They put it on t iktok, Facebook and insta gram. it cost us just $25.”

docktor says some of his store’s success was due to people being fed up with Amazon. “either the day before a costume was supposed to arrive they’d get an email saying, ‘sorry, out of stock,’ or they said, ‘i ordered a 3X thinking it would fit my large body but it barely fit my grand daughter,’” he says. “And some of them were like, ‘it came, and i put my foot in it and it ripped.’”

stringer says the “shop local” mood helped her business at halloween. her store has been open 33 years, but new firsttime customers keep discovering it.

“We had a lot of people that said they wanted to shop local, that they were tired of throwing their money at corporate stuff,” she says. “A lot of them said, ‘Wow, i never knew this place ex isted until a friend told me or someone standing in line at s pirit halloween told me.’”

reN tALs rev up sALes

Costume rentals were also a strong point for some costume shops this year. twenty of the respondents to the nCA survey rent costumes, and exactly half of them reported better or much better rentals this halloween. Thirty percent said they were the same as last year, and only 20 percent said they were worse.

docktor says his rental inventory is largely vintage clothing, so when somebody wants to dress up like a flapper or soldier or a rock star, they can choose from actual clothing suitable for those costumes. it also helps that his store is the last one in sacramento offering costume rentals, down from 15 in the 1990s.

“so, i’ve benefited from the fact that there’s nobody else doing rentals,” he says, adding that the number of rentals he did jumped from 265 last year to 352 this year. “We’re the last man standing.”

Susan Stringer prepares for Halloween at Beauty and the Beast Costumes.

Another question in our survey probed nCA members’ use of the halloween for All program, which encouraged members to better serve customers with disabilities. sixty-five percent of nCA members who responded to the survey read the hallow een for All booklet. even more important, 54 percent said, “ yes, i took some action to better serve customers with disabilities based on the ideas in the booklet or webinar.”

dorsey at McCabe’s Costumes served her customers who have sensory disorders by holding a “sensory sunday.” she dimmed the store’s lights and turned off the music.

“it’s a day they know they can shop comfortably,” she says. “sundays are typically slow, and our neighboring stores are closed on sunday, so there are less people around. They can also say in advance what they want, and we can pre-pull options for them in that size.”

Overall, halloween 2022 sales data revealed that many customers still appreciate the hands-on service and special selection available only in genuine bricks-and-mortar costume shops.

says stringer: “it’s kind of sweet to hear customers say, ‘ you’re a great resource to the community. There’s nobody else like you.’”

HALLoWeeN For ALL p rogrAm A pLus

Marvelous Mardi Gras!

Capture big sales from a Big Easy tradition

By Kathleen Furore

How can I extend holiday season sales into the new year?

if that’s a question you’re pondering, here’s one answer to consider: “Focus on Mardi Gras!”

The good thing about this new Orleans tradition is that it’s not just a one-day affair. While Mardi Gras 2023 is set to take place on Feb. 21, the traditional Carnival season — full of parties and parades — gets off to a rousing start on January 6, giving costume shops more than a month to drum up sales.

“The season kicks off like clockwork on January 6, which is epiphany, so there are a lot of celebrations on that day. But it’s really a whole season,” reports Claudia Baumgarten, owner of Miss Claudia’s Vintage Clothing & Costumes, a new Orleans shop that features vintage Mardi Gras costumes including capes from float riders. Miss Claudia’s window displays featuring Carnival-appropriate apparel and accessories typically pop up beginning January 2, beckoning customers eager to celebrate the season and indulge before Lent begins.

The History

understanding how Mardi Gras became a Big easy tradi tion can help costumers stock their shops with everything they’ll need to capitalize on Carnival. According to the story “Mardi Gras history and traditions” at neworleans.com, the city has been the site of Mardi Gras celebrations since 1699.

“in French colonial days, wealthy members of Creole society threw lavish Mardi Gras balls from twelfth night (Jan. 6) to Fat tuesday eve,” the story explains, adding that the first parade “rolled through the city streets” in 1857, sponsored by the Mistick Krewe of Comus — now the old

est continuous organization of new Orleans Mardi Gras festivities. Fifteen years later, rex, the king of Mardi Gras, made his debut. According to information from the rex Organization, rex’s traditional colors of purple, green, and gold have become the official colors of Carnival.

today, hundreds of Mardi Gras krewes host balls featur ing kings and queens and royal courts; parades with floats, marching bands, clowns, and other flamboyant characters; and even Mardi Gras indians decked out in elaborate handsewn costumes.

The Trends

With so many costuming opportunities, there aren’t eas ily identified trends — especially because each krewe comes up with its own theme, and often doesn’t unveil it until parade day. For Baumgarten, Mardi Gras costumes aren’t about trends, but about being creative and celebrating the creativity of the community.

“Last year there were a lot of space themes with all of the billionaires going into space, and i feel like space is still going

Miss Claudia’s Mardi Gras 2021 window display

and “pretty in pink” turban, mask and gloves

to be a big theme this Mardi Gras,” Baumgarten says, noting that that means using silver and metal lics as base pieces, then adding capes, body suits, gloves, stockings and tights.

she says group and couples’ costumes (with each person’s costume created around a theme) are always popular, and that band costumes and hats are things “people really enjoy wearing.” she also predicts pink will be a big color for Mardi Gras 2023 with the new Barbie and Ken movie coming out. “Think pink!” she says.

Whatever the trends, Baumgarten says it’s important for independent costume shops to approach Mardi Gras with creativity — and customers’ ideas — in mind.

“The worst thing you can do is to ask, ‘Can i help you?’ or ‘Are you looking for something in particular?’” she stresses. “And never ask a yes or no question! We ask, ‘What is your idea for Mardi Gras?’ it’s an open-ended question that opens a conversation instead of killing it. Let the customer think about what they want. if they don’t know, say, ‘ tell me what’s on your mind.’

Beyond the BiG easy

Wondering if Mardi Gras is something that makes sense for your shop to promote if you’re nowhere near NOLA? A quick online search that turned up several events gives a pretty clear answer: It does! Besides bar crawls (way too many to count) in cities na tionwide, here are a few celebrations planned from coast to coast.

Atlanta, Georgia: The Midtown Mardi Gras Block Party is set for February 18, 2023.

Portland, oregon: The annual Mardi Gras Ball and Mardi Gras Parade created by the Mysti Krewe of Nimbus — Portland’s Louisiana style Mardi Gras Krewe — are just two events scheduled for Mardi Gras season 2023. Check out the activities (and get some ideas!) at portlandmardigras.com/how-to-celebratefat-tuesday-in-portland-oregon/. stanton and Wilmington, delaware: Two of Delaware Tech nical Community College’s campuses will celebrate Mardi Gras on March 4, 2023, as a fundraising event for student success. So, check with bars, restaurants, park districts, business or ganizations, and schools in your area to see if they have events planned during Mardi Gras season…and offer to help them with any costumes and accessories they’ll need to celebrate in style.

Inc haracter costumes’ pink Butterfly tutu. This sparkly pink but terfly (CK16153) costume includes an antennae headpiece and tutu dress with whimsical butterfly print that’s ready to flutter into your heart. 516-873-9000; FunWorld/easterunlimited@FunWorld.net; incharacter.com

n CA M A r K et PLAC e

Advertising in the nCA Marketplace is $35 per issue (10% discount for nCA members). you will be billed upon publi cation; 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.

s ojourner’s Holographic Face glitters. This 16-pack of face glitters makes adding spar kle to costumes, nail art, hair and skin a breeze! it’s also a great addition when making slime and can be used as a resin tumble base and in other craft projects. The glitters can even be used like regular makeup and can be applied with makeup brushes. All made from high-quality ingredients in 16 sparkly shades and rainbow sparkles — a glitter for everyone!

contact@sojournerbags.com; sojournerbags.com.

rubies’ Adaptive costumes. This new line of adaptive costumes includes Batman, superman, Wonder Woman, Chase, and skye — all designed for children who use wheelchairs. each costume is designed for comfort and is easy to get on and off. rubies.com.

The pirate Dressing’s pirate Linen Large sash. This flexible, multipurpose sash (C1417) made of lightweight linen is the ideal accessory to polish off any pirate outfit. Measures 144 inches long and 10 inches wide — long enough to wrap around twice if you want to wear it on the waist. The unfinished torn edges give it a rustic, authentic pirate look. 323-284-7201; info@thepiratedressing.com thepiratedressing.com.

N c A vendors offer discounts to N c A Buyer m embers

A major nCA member benefit is the long list of discounts available exclusively to nCA members from the Vendor Members listed here.

AerOMAX, inC. (siLVer) www.aeromaxtoys.com 877-776-2291; FAX 847-756-4091 sean@aeromaxtoys.com Contact: sean schipper Specialties: Career Oriented dress for Kids and Adults alike

Discount: 5% off orders of $300; 10% off orders of $700; 15% off orders of $1,500+. Pre-paid orders $300 and over receive additional 2% discount. Terms: Orders $2,000 to $3,000 get net 45; orders $3,001 and over get net 60 if shipped by May 1; net 45 if shipped after May 1. Orders under $120 require credit card payment. FOB Lake Barrington, iL 60010. no minimum order. Orders must be placed by 2/10/23 and shipped by 8/1/23.

BLinKy PrOduCts (siLVer) www.blinkyproducts.com (212) 675-3790 thefeblandgroup@gmail.com Contact: nigel Febland Specialties: Cauldron nests of 6 sizes ( 6”, 8”, 10” 12” 15” ,18”), plastic pumpkins (orange, teal, pink, purple), candy coffins, and juice sippers. Plus summer beach toys. All items made in usA. Discount: see www.costumers.org for nCA price list.

Terms: net 30 days subject to credit approval or credit card prior to shipping: Visa or MC only. FOB Fitchburg, MA.

CAMden PAssAGe (GOLd) www.camdenpassage.com (888) 755-5578 Fax (888) 955-5578 info@camdenpassage.com

Contact: Victor del Zoppo

Specialties: Manufacturer of Loox Theatrical Contacts and the American distributor for Moon Creations. isO 13485 & MdsAP certified. Moon Creations - manufacturer of Professional Makeup & Bold Cosmetics. includes neon uV, Glow in the dark, Glitter, Face Paints and special FX. Made in the uK, isO 22716 certified, FdA and health Canada compliant. Loox - Arguably the most comfortable colored contacts! Over 170 designs in stock year-round. FdA and health Canada cleared for safe and legal retailing.

Discount: 5% Off invoice.

Terms: net 30 OAC. Low minimums. Fast, free shipping.

disGuise, inC./diVisiOn OF JAKKs PACiFiC (PLAtinuM) www.disguise.com (858) 391-3600 Fax (858) 391-3601 info@disguise.com

Contact: david Coggin

Specialties: Licensed costumes and accessories. Discount: Generic Costumes & Accessories: 14% off list price; Licensed Costumes & Acces sories: 10% off list price. discounts do not apply to closeouts or special buys. Minimum order to qualify for the Premium nCA discount: $2500. Opening orders must be received by disguise by 2/6/2023 to receive full benefits. no extensions will be granted. For Members placing their opening order by 2/6/2023, a 1% defective Allowance (dA) will apply to all orders placed for 2023. Members placing opening orders by 2/6/2023 will continue to receive full program discounts on all reorder activity for the 2023 season. Members who do not place orders by 2/6/2023 will realize only the benefits of the disguise standard discount schedule and return policy.

dreAMGirL internAtiOnAL (siLVer) www.dreamgirldirect.com (323) 268-0220 x208 ggabor@dgbrands.com

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% - $1 - $5,000; 4% - $5,001 - $10,000; 5% - $10,001 – Over. in addition, nCA will receive a 1% volume rebate based on net shipments to members.

Terms: halloween dating available to credit ap proved customers.

dress uP AMeriCA tOy inC. (siLVer) www.dressupamerica.com (718) 436-0031 Fax (718) 775-3200 sales@dressupamerica.com

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) for orders shipping after June 1, 2023.

eLLie shOes inC. (siLVer) www.ellieshoes.com (714) 773-2995 Fax (714) 771-0057 info@ellieshoes.com

Contact: Leslie Wandell

Specialties: Footwear for all your costuming needs! Discount: 5%

Terms: Please have nCA membership number on purchase order, e-mail, or fax. halloween dating subject to Cit approval.

eLOPe, inC. (siLVer) www.elope.com (719) 328-1312 Kelli@elope.com

Contact: Kelli Borel riedmiller

Specialties: Wide variety of innovative licensed and unlicensed costume headwear, eyewear, and accessories.

Discount: On all member orders, 5% discount (excluding disney and sale items) and discounted freight.

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

the F unCtiOnAL ChOCOLAte COMPAny (siLVer) funcho.co (303) 809-8288 Fax (303) 228-6882 sales@funcho.co Contact: rick yale

Specialties: Functional Chocolate helps make every day a little better by addressing the most common health realities – sleep issues to energy, focus for those video calls, PMs to menopause, stress and much more. All products are packed with power ful vitamins, botanicals and clinically researched ingredients, blended in a base of ethically sourced, non-GMO, naturally vegan and gluten free dark chocolate.

Discount: 5% off and free shipping for all orders over $250.

F unny FAshiOn usA (siLVer) www.funnyfashion.com (719) 260-7744 Fax (719) 260-7743 order@funnyfashion.com

Contact: diane Lutz

Specialties: Balloons, balloon accessories, valuepriced halloween, Masquerade and Theatrical costumes and accessories.

B uyer’s G r O u P

Discount: 5% on orders from $500 to $4,999; 7% on orders from $5,000 to $9,999; 10% on orders from $10,000 to $19,999; and 15% on orders above $20,000.

Terms: halloween dating november 10, 2023 WAC, FOB Funny Fashion distribution Point.

F un WOrLd/inChArACter (siLVer) www.fun-world.net (516) 873-9000 Fax (516) 873-9005 AlexL@fun-world.net Contact: Alex Losito

Specialties: halloween: Costumes, Wigs, Masks, decor, Pumpkin Carving, Weapons, Accessories, Make up, home décor. harvest home décor. Christmas: santa suits, Beards, elf on the shelf, home decor, Valentines, st. Patrick’s day, easter, and easter home décor.

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. FunWorld and inCharacter Cos tume orders can be combined to make free freight. 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.

GOOds FOr GeeKs (siLVer) www.cosplayflex.us www.goodsforgeeks.com (970) 414-0857 brandon.lilly@goodsforgeeks.com

Contact: Brandon Lilly Specialties: Cosplayflex thermoplastic Discount: 10% off wholesale price list. Plus addi tional volume discounts: 5% = $1,000 to $1,499; 7% = $1,500 to $2,499; 10% = $2,500+. Terms: net 30 OAC

GrAF tOBiAn MAKe uP (siLVer) www.graftobian.com (608) 222-7849 Fax (608) 222-7893 ordermakeup@graftobian.com

Contact: Janine Wardale

Specialties: Professional grade Theatrical and hd makeup suitable for tV/Film and stage. Featur ing ProPaint body paint, FX Aire and GlamAire Airbrush makeup, plus a full range of lusters, shim mers, glitter body sprays and more. Four types of

blood, four shades of modeling wax, spirit gum, pro adhesive, plus a full range of halloween kits. Made in the usA.

Discount: details coming soon.

hM sMALLWAres Ltd (siLVer) www.hmsltd.ca (514) 244-8492 edith@hmsltd.ca

Contact: edith dempsey Specialties: Better quality hats, accessories, horns and accoutrements. World renowned leatherlike and supersoft products.

Discount: 10% discount on first time order and 5% discount on all reorders, Minimum order $500. Terms: Visa/Mastercard.

KBW (siLVer) www.kbwcorp.com (626) 258-2938 jonas@kbwcorp.com

Contact: Jonas Wu Specialties: Party masks, hats and accessories for steampunk, day of the dead, Mardi Gras and other events throughout the year. Discount: 2% off orders of $300 to $499; 3% on orders of $500 to $999; and 5% off orders of $1,000 or more.

Terms: Minimum is $300 per order. For hats, minimum order is 3 items and for masks, minimum order is 4 items. require credit card on first order and depending on size of subsequent order, may go to terms. references and credit check required.

KryOLAn PrOFessiOnAL MAKe uP (siLVer) www.kryolan.com (415) 863-9684 a.newman@kryolan.com

Contact: Anne newman Specialties: Aquacolor, uV reactive, temp hair color, Blood, Beards & Mustaches and 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. Terms: net 30 with approved credit.

LOF tus (siLVer) www.loftus.com (800) 453-4879 Fax (888) 871-7375 jacob@loftus.com holly@loftus.com

Contacts: Jacob White and holly Adamonis-Zuller Specialties: Loftus carries a vast array of products under one roof, giving you the convenience of one-stop-shopping. We offer a large selection of halloween & seasonal items along with everyday

products to help generate sales year-round: costume accessories, make-up, wigs, hats, masks, décor, magic/novelties, balloons, decorator supplies, party favors and impulse items. Our partnerships with some of the best manufacturers in the industry make Loftus a genuine value to the members of the nCA.

Discount: ALL year long, nCA members receive our top-tier premium pricing and our highest avail able discounts across ALL product categories. Also free freight on all orders over $500 to a usA-based ship-to address.

Terms: Minimum order $100. VisA, Mastercard, discover or American express. halloween dating and terms available to credit approved customers.

MehrOn MAKeuP (siLVer) www.mehron.com (845) 426-1700 Fax (845) 426-1515 info@mehron.com

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. dis count applies to 2023 Mehron dealer Wholesale Pricing. $500 minimum first order, $200 mini mum 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.

MindsCOPe PrOduCts (siLVer) www.mindscopeproducts.com (818) 726-1998 george@mindscopeproducts.com

Contact: George Balanchi

Specialties: AniMAt3d talking, singing, joking characters. Discount: $35.00 on AniMAt3d line with FFA

MustAChes (siLVer) mustachesb2b.com +37-06-992-1066 sales@mustaches.eu Contact: tomas siuipys

Specialties: high-quality fake mustaches and beards. More than 1500 sKus to choose from. We make mustaches in europe (Lithuania) and ship world wide. shipment to the u s. takes only 4-5 days. Discount: We offer a 30% discount from our list

uyer’s

price. MOQ per item is 6 pieces. Minimum order is $300. There is a $40 shipping fee, but orders above $900 get free shipping.

Terms: Payment terms 30 days after order is received. Please ask for special Planogram orders for halloween payment terms.

the PirAte dressinG (siLVer) www.thepiratedressing.com (321) 445-1837 info@thepiratedressing.com

Contact: Aditya Aggarwal

Specialties: rental quality pirate, medieval, renais sance 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.

ruBies ii, LLC (PLAtinuM) www.rubies.com (516) 333-3473 Fax (516) 333-3496 cinfo@rubies.com

Contact: Joe Wozniak

Specialties: ruBies ii is the world’s largest de signer, manufacturer and distributor of halloween costumes and accessories. We offer a vast selection of License and non-license products that extend well beyond halloween. We have products for all holidays and special occasions for everyone … even your pets!

Discount: Please contact your local representative or rubie’s customer service department at 516-333-3473.

sOJOurner (siLVer) www.sojournerbags.com (501) 940-4554 wholesale@sojournerbags.com

Contact: Adam

Specialties: Music festival and costume accessories, including holographic cowboy hats, fanny packs, hydration packs, glitter, masks, goggles and glasses. Discount: An additional 10% discount to nCA members on top of our wholesale prices.

stArLine LA/PArty KinG (siLVer) www.starline.la (949) 209-8804 sales@starline.la

Contact: sales department Specialties: starline & Party King Costumes are two sister brands that offer a great mix of innovative new costumes, as well as bestselling classics. Com petitive pricing, exceptional quality and beautiful costumes are what we are all about! We also design & produce custom & private label.

Discount: We offer an 8% discount to nCA members.

sunnyWOOd, inC. (GOLd) www.sunnywood.net (815) 675-9777 Fax (815) 675-9788 order@sunnywood.net

Contact: tammy semiletow Specialties: exquisite tiaras, headpieces, Men’s Crowns, Period Pieces, Flappers, Costumes, santa suits, Bunnies, Accessories and more. Discount: dozen pricing on single piece items and special promotions exclusively for nCA members. Member Privileges cannot be used in combination with other special discounts or promotions.

tish And snOOKy ’s MAniC PAniC nyC (siLVer)

manicpanicwholesale.com phone: 718-937-6055 Fax: 718-937-6172 retail@manicpanic.com Contact: noel rodriguez-Ortiz Specialties: semi-Permanent and temporary hair Color and Cosmetics Discount: 10% off Wholesale pricing. MOQ for free shipping $500 Terms: Most customers are on prepaid terms but are welcome to apply for net terms based on credit application.

triCK Or treAt studiOs (siLVer) www.trickortreatstudios.com (831) 713-9665 Fax (831) 621-4763 michael@trickortreatstudios.com

Contact: Anthony Austin Specialties: highest quality licensed and original designed masks, costumes, props, replicas, col lectables, action figures, decor, wrapping paper, ac cessories and tabletop games. top Licenses include the halloween Franchise (Michael Myers), The universal Classic Monsters, A nightmare on elm street, the Child’s Play Franchise and much more! Discount: 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

Contact: Payman shaffa Specialties: Children and adult costumes, accessories including weapons, boas, wings, hats & helmets. 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

Contact: susan y i 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.

Western FAshiOn, inC. (siLVer) www.westernfashioninc.com (909) 627-9551 sales@westernfashioninc.com

Contact: PJ Gupta Specialties: rental high-Quality Costumes ranging from Pirate, Flapper, and Victorian. Also Festival, rave, and Party items. Discount: Free shipping. Terms: halloween dating to credit approved customers.

WOLFe FX / dentAL distOrtiOns (siLVer) www.wolfefx.com www.dentaldistortions.com (407) 730-9820 sales@wolfefx.com Contact: nigel Febland, 917-864-1685, TheFeBlandGroup@gmail.com Specialties: Professional quality make-up, dental distortions movie teeth, and other products. Available for the makeup artist as well as the everyday user. Discount: 5% off wholesale price. Terms: $300 minimum order, FOB Orlando. Credit card payment required.

ZAGOne studiOs, LLC (siLVer) www.zagonestudios.com phone: (773) 509-0610 Fax (773) 509-0613 francop@zagonestudios.com

Contact: Franco Pacini Specialties: halloween masks and costumes, accessories.

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

My F AVO rite C O stu M e

Marty Boyer Theatre House Covington, Kentucky

since 1955, Theatre h across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio — has helped millions of productions come to life by offering a robust inventory of theatrical supply products includ ing makeup, wigs, stage lighting, props, costumes, specialty fabric and much more.

“With world-class prod ucts from Ben nye, Mehron, Chauvet, MBt and rosco, we’re here to make sure your show goes on,” the company tells customers looking for everything they’ll need for their shows — and more!

Theatre house has been a mainstay in the area for K-12 schools, universities, governments, and theatre groups who have counted on the company for more than 60 years. A family-run business from 1955 until 2017, the company is now headed by president Marty Boyer, who shares his favorite costume story here with Costumer readers.

“My favorite costume is easy…wait for it…it’s the full-bodied Grinch cos tume by elope.”

WH y?

“The Grinch himself has a certain je ne sais quoi about his character and aura,” says Boyer, who adds that what he’s about to share he has never

t makes me feel vulnerable, but i’m going to n full disclosure, i keep my own Grinch costume in the closet here at Theatre house. will often find myself during the holiday season, when people are away from the shop, dancing in the costume,” he says.

“When the winter solstice is upon us, it brings about the mood with traces of fading daylight coming into the shop. it really brings just the perfect moments of daylight when it greets the evening, cold, yet still welcoming. i play soft music, sip some wine and dance. i can’t con trol it, it’s who i am — a soft-hearted

One evening, Boyer says he even made a video of his transformation from ouse president to Grinch! believe there’s a little bit of Grinch in all of us,” Boyer adds before quoting “Oh The ou’ll Go” by Theodor seuss Geisel, whom he calls “not just an icon of literature, but a hero of mine as well.”

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go...

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