Name: Joanna Mari
City: Long Island, NY
Twitter: @peacelovejoanna
Facebook: www.facebook.com/joannamaricosplay
Photographer(s): HSL Photography, HLXdsgns, Jason Chau Photography
What was your first Cosplay experience?
The first time I cosplayed was back in 2012 at NYCC! I made myself, and my boyfriend a costume to wear about a month before the con. I wore a fairly simple Fem Black Adam. After enjoying myself at the con and seeing such talented cosplayers, I knew I wanted to continue and start making more advanced costumes!
How long have you been Cosplaying?
It will be 3 years this NYCC!
Who or what inspired you to take up Cosplaying?
I have been a crafter my whole life, dabbing in all artistic mediums. I had some experience in costume building and designing both for Halloween and school productions, so the way I see it, cosplay was inevitable lol.
If you had to pick a favorite Cosplay you have worn, or have seen someone else wear, what would it be?
I think it’s a tie between my Twilight Sparkle and my Wonder Woman. Twilight sparkle is a costume of mine that im 100% happy with and because of that I enjoy wearing it. Its also my comfiest costume. Although my Wonder Woman wasn’t as comfy and had a few flaws in the construction, I enjoy wearing it because of how empowered I feel portraying such a strong woman.
If you had unlimited funds and resources, what Cosplay would you create?
Oh man, it would be BIG. I would make a fully functional Varia Suit that Samus Aran wears in the Metroid games. And by fully functional I mean moving parts, awesome lights, and have it made completely out of metal.
Beyond the fact I dont have all the money and supplies to achieve that, I am completely clueless in how motors work lol.
What advice would you offer to those who are aspiring Cosplayers?
I would say to just go for it. I see many people on social media saying that they”want to be a cosplayer” as if its a secret club only a few get to be part of.
Cosplay is for EVERYONE, its so diverse. There are people like myself who create their own costumes, some who design their perfect costume and have it made for them, and many who do a little bit of both!
There isn’t a single reason stopping anyone from cosplaying, and so I say if you want to get into cosplay, then jump right in.
To learn more about Joann Mari’s Cosplay feel free to follow her on Twitter: @peacelovejoanna and Facebook: www.facebook.com/joannamaricosplay
If you or someone you know would like to have a gallery featured on Geeks With Wives, please email Casey at gwwcapescrew@gmail.com!