You Fancy Me Mad

A Nerdy Personal Blog

It’s Almost C2E2 Time Again

I’ve cut down a lot on conventions but C2E2 is one that I’ll probably always attend. I just really enjoy the show. It’s the perfect size, it’s not crowded like SDCC or NYCC. They have a great mix of entertainment and comic guests. The convention center has tons of space as well and I just never feel overwhelmed or lost in the crowd. You can easily find a spot to relax and chill. It really is a great show, especially if you’re new to conventions! As far as my schedule goes, it’s not too packed. A few panels grabbed my attention but my main thing is getting a photo with Paul Rudd. Yes, THE Paul Rudd. This is his first comic con appearance (outside of SDCC which is more like a studio obligation) and I am beyond excited that I get to take part in that! I mean, it’s fucking Paul Rudd! The ageless wonder! There’s a “Clueless” reunion panel as well which should be very entertaining.

I plan on bringing my “Batman Returns” Catwoman cosplay again. I’m hoping to have some new photos taken but I’m still waiting to hear back from a photographer and trying to find a few others. I upgraded the corset and I’m really looking forward to wearing her again. It’s a really fun costume and it was funny running into a few other Catwomen last year. Right now my plan is to cosplay on Friday since my photo op is on Saturday and I treat Sunday as a super laid back day. I’ll only switch to Sunday if it’s easier photographer wise.

This year my squad is staying at a new hotel too! I think it’s only a year old, if that. The best part is we’ll have a full size fridge which is huge when it comes to a convention. We’ll be able to really stock up before hand and save money on food and snacks. The hotel offers a free breakfast as well which is fantastic. There’s a microwave too which means being able to save any leftovers if we do go out to dinner one night. I’ll probably write up a little review of the hotel when I get back. I feel it’s super important and an easy way to help fellow con goers. Seriously, if you attend a lot of conventions, think about leaving reviews either on your blog or on something like TripAdvisor. It can really help out future attendees and it’s something that doesn’t take a lot of time to do. A few tips I have are to make sure you mention the convention in your review (I normally do that in the title), and focus on things that you would care about. How much is parking? Is wi-fi free? Do they offer free breakfast? Here is a review I wrote last year for a hotel I used for C2E2, and another review that I wrote for a hotel during SDCC 2011. Plus I’ve blogged a few reviews as well.

If you’re interested in attending C2E2, badges are still available! The show is March 22nd-24th in Chicago. Are any of you attending? If you are, let me know!

A C2E2 2018 Roundup

C2E2 is a convention I’ll probably always attend. It’s the “main base” for my squad, if you will. A few of them live in Chicago, another in St. Louis. It’s pretty central for us and for that reason it’ll always hold a special place in my heart. If you’re looking for a show that’s a nice mix of celebrities and comics, this is the one. The comic guests are a nice mix of old and new, Artist Alley is filled with some amazing talent, both local and from far away. The entertainment guests cover everything from voice actors to authors to your favorite stars from TV and movies. I really do feel like there’s something for everyone, without the overbearing crowds.

This year I took it pretty easy. I didn’t plan on spending much and only booked one photo op. When the show added Charlie Cox from “Daredevil,” I knew I had to get his photo. I’ve sworn off certain conventions which means getting to meet celebrities is getting harder for me personally. The photo was on Sunday and when I lined up I wasn’t that nervous at all! But then as the line moved closer and I heard that accent, I almost melted. You never know what you’re going to get when meeting a celeb. Are they going to be nice? Will you feel rushed? What about those running the photo op? I’m happy to report that Charlie was a doll. He asked everyone their names, he complimented my dress (said it was fantastic), and after the photo I asked if I could have a hug and he said of course. And not once did those in charge of the op rush myself or anyone else (that I saw anyway). It really was a great experience even if it only lasted a few minutes. Plus I think I look pretty good in this photo? I’ve finally lost that “deer in the headlights” look that seems to happen in every photo op I do. It took long enough!




While wondering around the booths, I came across the Batman Returns Catwoman Living Dead Doll. It’s been on my radar since it was shown at the Toy Fair and needless to say, I grabbed it. Luckily the price wasn’t jacked up and by buying it in person, I saved money on shipping. This doll is really adorable and has a good amount of details for being such a small thing!


I made sure I took it easy in Artist Alley this year. I’m trying to be a grown up which means not just throwing money at all at things. This year I only walked away with two new pieces. I snagged a Valkyrie by Karl Slominski and a Catwoman in my sketchbook done by Nooligan.



That’s about it for spending! I did preorder a “This Is What A Geek Girl Looks Like” top from Jordandené that was a show exclusive. When I got home I realized I didn’t take any photos of the floor at all. I was just having such a great time it didn’t cross my mind! I’m not sure that’s happened before. I did take some photos with my favorite people though and have those to share.



And that’s it! I had a blast and my group already has their room booked for next year! Also, I want to do a nice C2E2 post for everyone where I answer any questions people have about the show. I don’t know everything obviously but I’ve attended enough times that I feel confident in answering most, or being able to find a friend who can. If anyone has any questions about the con, please leave them in the comments and I’ll get to them in a future post!

My Batman Returns Catwoman Cosplay Finally Happened

It’s only been in the works since last year but I finally wore her to C2E2! It was a bit of a long road to get here. At first, I was just going to stock up on suits and try adding the stitching myself. I didn’t have the money this time around to commission someone for it. It’s easily a $1,200 costume depending on different things. But then I came across Mico Costumes who offered it for around $80. I’ve never actually seen a “mass produced” option before. I’ve searched on and off a bit over the years so I was really surprised when this popped up! Plus I figured it was cheaper/easier than ruining a bunch of suits I got off Ebay. I went with a Medium and prayed it would fit. A few weeks later my costume which included the suit, corset, whip, mask, and claw-less gloves arrived! I tried it on and it fit! I mean, it’s a bit long but I’m super short. It’s not really an issue though since it’s worn with boots. I wasn’t too impressed with the mask portion of the costume. That’s why I upgraded mine and ordered a cowl from Reevz FX. It was $150 but worth it. I feel like it really upgraded the entire look of the costume. Then the hunt was on for claws. I knew I wouldn’t be happy just half assing them or skipping them. I started contacting places I knew had sold them before but a few shops were on breaks. Then I came across Kitana Store on Etsy. She actually sells the entire costume with the gloves. I reached out asking if she’d be able to sell just the claws and she said yes! Since she’s located in Russia, shipping was a bit more but I paid a total of $65. The boots I bought off Ebay which helped save money because these things can easily be $80+. Instead I paid $35. That means I spent a total of $330. That sounds like a lot but when you start looking at the prices of custom costumes, it’s not horrible. Plus I did everything over months which made it easier to pay for. I am preparing though to upgrade the corset. It’s not bad for something that costs a total of $80 but it’s not a real one and doesn’t really lay like it should during certain poses. I’m not in a rush though since I’m not sure when I plan on wearing her again. I’m just throwing some feelers out there with a few commissioners. As far as how comfortable it was? I was really surprised that it wasn’t that bad! It was pretty easy to move in, I didn’t get too hot. I was always a little worried something would rip or bust but it never happened. I was able to kneel, bend, sit, with no real issues. In all I think I wore the costume for about 4 hours which honestly isn’t too shabby. I had people asking for photos which felt really great and all of you online who’ve been commenting as I’ve shared things on social media have been wonderful land mermaids. I want to thank all of you for the super kind comments and support. It really does mean a lot, especially with a costume like this. Now onto photos!

The following were taken by Butter Half Cosplay Photography. She was fantastic to work with. If you’re in her area, or she’s offering photos at a convention/event near you, I highly recommend booking her. She has very reasonable rates but more importantly she really put a lot of work into prepping for the shoot. Then the day of she was great with helping me pose and feel comfortable. You can also find her on Instagram



And here are a few random photos that were taken by my friends over the weekend. I need to send a huge thank you to my squad. They did everything from rubbing me down in baby powder, to carrying my bags, to fixing my lipstick when I couldn’t because claws. They kept an eye out for creepers as well which is always appreciated.



And this one gets highlighted because I love it.



And that’s it! I only wore her Saturday but would have worn her again on Sunday if the day was longer. If anyone has any issues just let me know and I’ll try my best to answer them! And be sure to give Butter Half Cosplay a follow! Also, I’ll do another General C2E2 post later in the week!

And That’s A Wrap On C2E2 2017

As always I had a great time. I will say that Saturday was crowded as hell. I’ve been going to this show for about six years now and that was the most crowded I’ve ever seen it. Saturday is always a big crowd day, no matter the con, but it felt extra tight this year. I probably got nailed in the head by bags at least three times while walking the floor. I definitely got stuck going with the flow of traffic and probably never made it to certain areas of the floor. I mean, it’s great that C2E2 is catching on but I also want to yell “get off my lawn” to everyone. I only made it to one panel and that was the Marvel True Believers Marvel Unlimited Plus panel. It was nice to see what’s coming up, and we got a sneak peak at the new Spider-Man cartoon. It’s totally taking a page from the Spider-Man: Homecoming. There’s no mistaking that. It’ll be interesting to see how this Sony/Marvel relationship plays out.

I did manage to add some art to my sketchbook though! I put myself on a pretty solid budget since I have NYC this coming weekend but I left the convention with two new pieces. First is Black Widow by Brian Level. Isn’t she amazing? He does such an amazing job. If he’s every at a show near you, he’s 100% worth the money. The next is Hela by Monica Gallagher. I knew I needed a Hela in my book after the new Thor trailer dropped. I’m totally in love with this sketch! She’s perfect.

Of course I had to stop and visit good ole’ Chip Zdarsky! If you’re not reading Sex Criminals, you should be. And be sure to pick up his Star-Lord trade when it hits stores. Sadly, it’s been canned but it was a really great book. If you enjoyed the Fraction/Aja Hawkeye, this book is right up your alley. And yes, that’s Job from Sex Crimz with some crazy abs that would make Kris Anka jealous. It resulted in my most liked tweet yet! Thanks Chip!



I had my Stan Lee photo op as well on Friday! It went pretty quick but I’m glad I did it again because who knows how much longer he has. I mean, the dude is almost 100 years old.

I ran into Agent M as well at the Marvel booth! He’s such a great guy and I love chatting with him when I get the chance. I’m glad he does shows like C2E2 since I don’t know when I’ll get back to San Diego and NYCC kinda gives me nightmares.

And while chilling in the lobby on Sunday I ran into DMC of Run DMC. He talked about the convention, breakfast foods, how the elevators weren’t working, and other random stuff. He was super nice! I felt weird asking for a photo but he was totally cool with it! He left before my ride showed up and he wished me safe travels. Just goes to show you never know when you’ll run into someone during a convention.

And really that’s about it. Normally my squad is a bit bigger for this show but life gets in the way sometimes. I missed having them there, that’s for sure. I didn’t take a lot of photos because I just kinda forgot or it was just too packed to really stop and take any. But hey, enjoy a few outfit photos since I don’t normally do that kinda thing!



FYI, the Raptor and Baby Groot shirts are all from Hot Topic. The “bad ass bitch” outfit is all Black Milk Clothing. Oh and how could I forget that I got to see Pink Bunny and Jordan of the lovely Jordandené clothing company!



Whew, now that’s it. I’m sure I’m forgetting something but this post is getting long and image heavy. If I think of anything else important I’ll just make another post! Did anyone else hit up C2E2 this year? And if you’re thinking about next year, it’s April 6th-8th!

It’s Alright ‘Cause I’m Saved by the Bell!

Back in June, my friends and I made reservations for Saved By The Max. It’s the Saved By The Bell themed pop up diner in Chicago and over the weekend, the time finally came! Guys, it was amazing. The amount of details in this place was out of this world. I really expected to see Slater and Zack walk through the door any second. It was like being transported through time! Of course the place was packed but they had everything down to a science. You pay ahead of time when you make your reservations which is really nice. You get an appetizer, main course, plus a dessert. They have other items you can order off the menu too like drinks or milkshakes. But it’s kinda nice to know that everything is paid for and you won’t be sitting there trying to figure out the bill. When your waitress (or waiter) takes your order, they take your order for everything. Like I said, it’s a well oiled machine. And the food was outstanding! Sometimes at a themed place you have no idea what to expect but the serving sizes were perfect and everything I tried tasted great. It was a perfect birthday dinner and I’m beyond glad my friend and I have no impulse control and booked this when we did! Now onto the photos!



Yes, we wore matching shirts. And yes, we basically did cosplay. Look, if you’re going to go to a place like this, you just have to dress up! It’s part of the fun! But seriously it was a great time and the people behind this idea did a fantastic job bringing it all to life! They even tell you when you’re waiting for your food to get up and take photos. It’s super encouraged and the staff have no issues taking photos for you. It was super fun keeping an eye on different areas, waiting for people to leave so we could rush over and take pictures. It was just really the fucking best.