By Kathleen Furore
NCA ADMINISTRATION
board of directors
President
Terry Sinopoli
Arlene’s Costumes 1156 Culver Rd. Rochester, NY 14609
terry@arlenescostumes.com 585-662-9942
Term ends: 2025
immediate Past
President
Pam Markel
Illusive Skull Costume Castle 1314 Morgantown Ave. Fairmont, WV 26554 docmarkel@aol.com
304-476-7927
Term ends: 2025
Vice President
Janine Caufield
Caufield’s 1006 West Main St. Louisville, KY 40202
Janine@caufields.com 502-727-5682
Term ends: 2024
treasurer
Louella Torrence
Drop Me a Line Costume Shop 3600 Catherine Ave. Allentown, PA 18103 dropmealine@rcn.com 610-360-5498
Term ends: 2025 director
Marion Bradley
Discount Costumes 1736 Watson Blvd Warner Robins, GA 31093 balloonsnpartiesinfo@ gmail.com 478-396-1204
Term ends: 2026
director
Calvin Coffman
Graftobian 510 Tasman St. Madison, WI 53714 608-222-7849
calvincoffman@graftobian.com
Term ends: 2026
director Anne Dorsey
McCabe’s Costumes 4054 S. Memorial Dr. Winterville, NC 28590 mccabescostumes@gmail. com
Term ends: 2026 director
Courtland Hickey
Chicago Costume 1120 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL 60614 courtland@chicagocostume. com
773-528-1264
Term ends: 2025 director
Dwayne Ibsen
Ibsen Costume Gallery 4981 Hamilton St. Omaha, NE 68132
402-556-1400
Fax 402-556-5727 ibsencostumes@ gmail.com
Term ends: 2024 director
Brandon Lilly
The Life of the Party 4025 S. Mason St., Ste B. Fort Collins, CO 80525 brandon.lilly@goodsforgeeks. com 970-414-0857
Term ends: 2025 executiVe director Ed Avis
National Costumers Association 708-218-7755 executivedirector@costumers.org
standing
committee c H airs
buyer member benefits: Courtland Hickey
Vendor benefits: Calvin Coffman
membership recruitment: Anne Dorsey and Marion Bradley
revenue: Anne Dorsey
nominations and awards: Pam Markel
bereavement, disaster and grievance: Pam Markel
History: Dwayne Ibsen and Pam Markel
Website: Janine Caufield and Brandon Lilly
social media: Janine Caufield and Calvin Coffman
be on t H e lookout! The invoices for your 2025 membership dues were emailed to all current members in the past month.
The nca depends on your dues to continue providing The Costumer magazine, our biweekly email newsletter, the Buyer’s group, the Bundle program, the halloween promotions, the webinars and all of the other member benefits!
if you didn’t get an invoice, please contact ed avis at executivedirector@costumers.org or 708-218-7755.
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
Hello my nca friends, 2025!
That seems so crazy to me that the New Year is right around the corner (and might even have arrived by the time you’re reading this issue of The Costumer).
I’m looking forward to meeting many NCA members at the Halloween & Party Expo in Las Vegas from January 13-15. We’re going to make sure to stop by as many of our vendors’ booths as possible because we know that will be the perfect way to start planning for the year ahead.
What are some ways to let the NCA help you in planning for success in 2025? Plan on attending the NCA Zoom Fashion Show, webinars, area meetings, Spring Fling and our annual business meeting. We look for members who wish to be more involved to run for office on our NCA Board of Directors. We also provide excellent deals in our Bundle Program and our Buyer’s Group.
There are also many ways outside of the National Costumers Association to plan for success. I participate in two networking groups. One meets in person weekly and is a group of local businesspeople from various professions who work together to help grow each other’s businesses. The other is a unique group of women who share information online and occasionally meet in person to help each other solve issues and grow. Many of our NCA members also belong to their local Chambers of Commerce, Rotary Clubs and other groups to help grow their businesses.
We would love to hear about the experiences you’ve had in spreading the word about your business. Many of our members exhibit at comic cons, festivals and other fun events. Some sponsor local events in their towns. Others have creative side hustles like airbrush face painting or character appearances.
So now you have a little homework. It’s time to think about how you can utilize the NCA and other groups to help build your business. I also invite you to become more of an active participant in the National Costumers Association this year. Like or follow us on our socials, join us for webinars and special events. This is YOUR NCA! Please help us make 2025 an amazing one for our organization and our industry!
Please report back and let me know how things are going for you and your business.
terry sinopoli, President
National Costumers Association
terry@arlenescostumes.com
Arlene’s Costumes, Rochester, New York
nca national Headquarters
ed avis
executive director
P.O. Box 13347 Chicago, IL 60613 708-218-7755
executivedirector@costumers.org
The Costumer Publications office
Ed Avis Associates
P.O. Box 13347 Chicago, IL 60613
708-218-7755
executivedirector@costumers.org
ad sales
Ed Avis
708-218-7755
executivedirector@costumers.org
editorial inquiries
Kathleen Furore
708-267-0023 kfurore@yahoo.com
art director
Michelle Crisanti michelle@mc2chicago.com
©2024, 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
ASSOCIATION NEWS
a 2024 Halloween review: many shops saw improved sales vs. 2023
The ghosts of last year’s dismal Halloween seem to have mostly flown away — Halloween 2024 was much better, according to our annual post-Halloween survey, which was completed by 26 stores.
Last year, 70 percent of respondents to our survey reported that sales of costumes and masks were “somewhat worse” or “much worse” compared to the previous year. For 2024, only 33 percent of respondents said that, and 29 percent said sales were “somewhat better” or “much better” than 2023. Sales of makeup and accessories were evenly split between better and worse in 2024: 35 percent said sales were “much worse” or “somewhat worse” this year and the same percentage said sales were “somewhat better” or “much better.”
knew. I’m relieved that the last few days of the month were a little busier than expected, but I wish I had been able to capitalize better on it. I’m grateful but it didn’t make up for the slower two weeks in the beginning of October.”
Promotions Helped
The NCA helped promote our members’ stores with a Google Ad campaign that encouraged people to shop at local, bricks-andmortar costume shops for their Halloween needs.
The campaign, which ran for most of October, featured an ad that popped up on people’s browsers when they searched for “Halloween costume” or related keywords, and then linked to our online member directory.
The campaign generated 89,872 impressions and exactly 700 click-throughs to the member directory.
Of course, since sales were so bad in 2023, having an increase in sales in 2024 does not necessarily mean sales were good. But an open-ended question — “Overall, were you pleased with Halloween this year?” — revealed that a solid number of NCA members enjoyed relatively good sales. Here are some verbatim comments from both ends of the spectrum: • “Yes, the end was stupid busy. The start was very slow. The end made up for it but it was very hard work to serve all those people, but that is how it goes. No snow this year, last year had snow on last weekend that killed us. I’d say this year was what I expected revenue wise. But halfway through I was down 15 percent YOY and I was nervous. Ended up 13.5 percent compared to last year so I’m happy.” • “No. Sales were way down. It was such a slow start and didn’t get busy to the very end. I found out the hard way that there were products that I let run out which I should have reordered. Unfortunately, it was too late by the time I
A new question in this year’s survey asked people if they tried any new promotions for Halloween.
Here are three of the responses:
• “We sent home Costume ‘Cash’ with all the local elementary schools to get the word out where we are. We had 150 returned. Of those, 75 percent were NEW customers!”
• “We started a Haunt Map for local haunts and displays, and everyone we added to the map got a sign for their yard with our logo and a QR code to our website. This worked to get more awareness of our store, based on conversations with customers.”
• “Early shoppers that came in looking for costumes and did not find what they want were given a coupon for $10 off their costume on their next visit. Had a return rate of about 45 coupons.”
Next year Halloween falls on a Friday, which historically is a great day for it. Let’s all hope the trend of improvement continues!
HalloWeen & Part Y ex P o: s how director marni Vinci shares plans for 2025 s how
Editor’s Note: The Halloween & Party Expo, January 13-15, is the biggest show of the year for the costume industry. This year it’s at a n ew location in Las Vegas, the World Market Center. The Costumer asked Show Director Marni Vinci what costumers can expect from the 2025 event.
The Costumer: We heard you’re bringing back the Fashion Show — what is that? when and where?
marni Vinci: The Fashion Show is a special event that will be held the first day of the show from 4:30 – 6 pm in the lobby, North Hall of the Expo at World Market Center. Buyers will enjoy a drink while viewing the latest costumes, accessories and more on the runway, displays on the mannequins and the new product showcase. A special photo opportunity is available as well!
The Costumer: Will there be any new exhibitors this year?
Vinci: Yes, we have over 25 new exhibitors participating this year representing all product categories. Check out the: Exhibitor List and Floor Plan at halloweenpartyexpo.com.
The Costumer: What else will be different this year?
Vinci: Several things!
• We are very excited to be in a new venue the Expo at World Market Center located near the famous Las Vegas Arts District!
• The HCA will be announcing the winners of their inaugural Spooky Awards and reception.
• Daily Raffles for the buyers, including Gift Basket Giveaways (exhibitor donated product)
• Discounted Hotels: Golden Nugget & Circa (21 and over hotel)
• Complimentary shuttle busses
The Costumer: Why should a costume shop owner visit HPE when they can see nearly everything online these days?
Vinci: There is nothing like being able to touch, feel and see the quality of a product in person! It’s the best way to ensure you are sourcing the highest quality products for your store.
The Costumer: HPE has been at the Mirage for several years in a row. Why did you move to the Marketplace?
Vinci: The Mirage was sold and is currently under renovation to become the Hard Rock Hotel. We are very excited to be at the Expo at World Market Center.
to register for the show, visit www.halloweenpartyexpo.com. Any questions, please feel free to contact Vinci at 203-242-8712 or marni.vinci@clarionevents.com.
By Kathleen Furore
With 2025 upon us, it’s time to consider how to fill up the new year’s calendar with products and promotions that will keep business bubbling not only at key holidays, but all year long. We’ve put together a list options to consider; let us know if you have more ideas and we’ll share them in The Costumer and our enewsletter NCA Today.
National Play-Doh Day
Stock mini cans of Play-Doh to hand out with purchase; host a Play-Doh craft hour/
Create a handout with safety tips for Halloween and distribute them at your store and at local schools and after-school programs.
Day of the Dead
Veterans
Day
Thanksgiving
Set up a Day of the Dead ofrenda (altar) and invite customers to provide photos of their departed loved ones.
Walt Disney Day
National Gingerbread House Day Hanukkah
Christmas
New Year’s Eve
Offer specials on Disney merchandise and on holiday gingerbread-themed costumes along with your regular promotions for the holiday season.
For a complete list of holidays and the stories behind how each came to be, visit holidayscalendar.com. For more merchandising/marketing ideas, use hashtags to find ways to celebrate (for example, #WorldGothDay, #NationalPlayDohDay). To share your ideas, email Editor Kathleen Furore at kfurore@yahoo.com.
B USINESS B ASICS
The marketing magic of makeup: How makeup can boost year-round sales
Ask NCA Director Brandon Lilly, owner of The Life of the Party in Fort Collins, Colorado, what role makeup plays in his store’s overall lineup and profit picture, and he answers with one simple sentence.
“The makeup category is one of our year-round [best] sellers and is incredibly important!” Lilly stresses.
CSR for Camden Passage, to learn how shops can optimize their makeup inventory to optimize their bottom line.
The Costumer: Why should independent costume shops consider adding makeup to their inventory if they don’t carry it, or expand their makeup selection if they currently offer only a few basic items?
Because makeup can be used in so many ways for so many different occasions, it is one of the most versatile product categories shops can rely on to drive sales during key holiday seasons and to carry them through typically slow seasons, too.
The Costumer reached out to Anuja Mehta, Marketing/
anuja mehta: Makeup and face paints are an integral part of any costume shop. They are an easy add-on sale whether it is for a costume, a birthday party or an event. For example, our face and body crayons that are available in 70 colors do well with children’s parties. Glitter is a nice add-on for events like
The makeup area at The Life of the Party
anniversaries, graduations or New Year’s Eve. If you have a local high school or college nearby, face paints are a sure sell to promote school spirit. It is important to present that idea in-store with a display of relevantly colored products displayed together with the school team name — for example “Go Tigers!”
mehta: For a client base that is creative and includes makeup artists, special effects makeup would be the way to go. We offer a full range of pro special fx makeup including realistic fake blood, scar wax, latex and spirit gum. Adding theatrical contact lenses to your mix would make your store a sure stop for true enthusiasts.
The Costumer: What are some of the most important makeup products a small shop should always offer?
mehta: For a small offering, they should definitely consider carrying face and body paints and crayons, as well as some glitter, whether loose or in a gel. These are everyday products that will see a spike during Halloween.
The Costumer: What are some of the more specialized/ “advanced” items shops that want to expand their inventory should consider?
The Costumer: Do you have any advice on how costume shops can merchandise and market their makeup in ways that will increase sales?
mehta: Last year we offered a novel way of displaying our Neon UV blacklight reactive makeup in store. With a custom printed fabric arch and a blacklight, it is easy to convert a small footprint of your store dedicated to neon products into a blacklight room. While Moon neon products shine bright neon by day, they glow spectacularly under UV lighting or blacklights.
What are some creative ways your shop has boosted makeup sales? Share your story with Editor Kathleen Furore at kfurore@yahoo.com!
m arket P lace t rends
Anuja Mehta, marketing/ customer service representative for Camden Passage, and Katie Perez, marketing manager for Mehron, Inc., share insights on trends they’ve seen over the past year.
Mehta: We are seeing a big surge in Neon UV products, especially for rave season, festivals and black light parties. We’ve even seen people use our Neon UV crayons for team building events held at glow bowling alleys! We are also seeing a big growth in the cosmetic contact lens space, an everyday seller simply to change the color of the eye.
Perez: This year we saw a lot of demand for easyto-use, high-impact Special FX products. Standout examples include our Rigid Collodion and Blood Splatter (pictures above), which gained viral attention on social media. These products are not only userfriendly but also deliver professional-quality results.
Mehron Rigid Colodion
Camden Moon Makeup
Mehron Blood Splatter
Camden Moon Makeup
NEW MEMBER PROFILE
a doctor and a lawyer Walk into a costume s hop… new nca member is run by women with accomplished backgrounds
By Ed Avis
The costume business attracts people with many backgrounds, but it’s unlikely that there is another costume shop run by people with the same professional pedigrees as the women helming Exquisite Costumes in Stamford, Connecticut: OBGYN Michele Rohr and attorney Caroline Oliver.
Rohr and Oliver met about eight years ago. Oliver, who had previously volunteered as a costumer for her children’s school plays, had left the law practice to pursue a career as a costume designer. She was designing the costumes for a school production of Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr. Coincidentally, Rohr’s son was in the play.
rental company that was going out of business. They bought the inventory and launched Exquisite Costumes.
“We both have a really big passion for educational and community theater,” Rohr says. “Our idea was to rent highquality costumes to these school and community theater programs for less money than they could buy them on their own. And then our second idea is to do ‘Rent the Costume’ like ‘Rent the Runway’ (an online platform that rents designer clothing), where costume designers and design professionals could go onto our website, see what we have, and pick and choose.”
“Caroline needed the iconic yellow dress for the production, but she couldn’t find one she liked,” Rohr remembers. “I grew up sewing, so I said, ‘Oh, I can make a yellow dress, no problem.’ So, I started doing that on the side for many years. Caroline is kind of the master designer, and I’m the technical backend support system. We had a very complimentary skill set.”
After a while, making costumes “on the side” simply
building the costume collection
The inventory of Exquisite Costume, which became an NCA member in November, continues to grow. Rohr often builds new costumes for productions — for example, she recently made an assortment of mid-1500s men’s doublets for a production of Man for All Seasons — and the company acquires existing costumes from various sources, including eBay and Etsy.
“We both have a really big passion for educational and community theater. o ur idea was to rent high-quality costumes to these school and community theater programs for less money than they could buy them on their own.”— Michelle rohr
wasn’t enough for Rohr. When she turned 50, she quit her OBGYN practice and pursued a BFA in Costume Design/ Costume Technology from the Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Purchase College in Purchase, New York. She graduated in May 2024.
About two years ago the women learned of a costume
Sometimes the costumes they acquire come in bulk. For example, when an opera company decided to offload some inventory, Rohr and Oliver spent three or four days digging through the costumes and selecting many for their business. “They had such a beautiful collection,” Rohr remembers. This past summer, an intern helped photograph the
Michelle Rohr and Caroline Oliver
costumes for their website. About 3,000 of them are now posted, though Rohr estimates that’s only half the collection. They use the online platform RentMy.com to post inventory and manage the rental process.
The company keeps its inventory in an office building in Stamford, and customers are welcome to examine and pick out costumes on-site. But most of their business comes though the website. They have served customers as far away as California.
“We ship everything UPS ground, so as long as you plan far enough ahead, shipping is a negligible cost,” Rohr says. “And the other thing we have decided to do is include the cost of cleaning in all of our rental prices. A lot of times when you go to rental companies and you look at their prices, what you don’t realize is you’re going to get another bill of 30 to 40 percent more at the end for cleaning costs. So, we don’t do that. Anything we launder, we launder ourselves, and we have a really good deal
“Pick-a-Litte” costumes from The Music Man
with a dry cleaner.”
Sometimes shows are close enough that the women can handle the costuming on-site. For example, they costumed a school production of The Addams Family in New Jersey, about 45 minutes away, and were able to meet and measure the cast in person.
Rohr says the business has met their expectations, though the first two years were a challenge, especially because she was in school full time and needed to tackle the custom builds in her off times.
“We’re busy,” she says. “We could be busier, but as we get busier, we are going to have to hire someone to help with logistics. If you have a big show coming in that needs to be cleaned and a big show going out at the same time, that can get crazy fast, especially if you have the same pieces that need to go out, come in and go right back out. But it’s a good kind of busy and it’s always fun.”
Ed Avis is Executive Director of the NCA.
PRODUCT PARADE
ellie shoes. The 301-Vivian is a women’s Velvet Witch Shoe with 3-inch heel. It comes in black velvet and red velvet styles, in sizes 6-10. The 031-Theon is a men’s Flat Gladiator Sandal that comes in black and gold in sizes Small, Medium, Large, and XL. 714-771-0015; www.ellieshoes.com
camden Passage. These Pro Face Paint Cake Pots are one of our best-selling products. The Moon Creations Professional Face & Body Makeup is water activated and available in 58 colors, including metallic colors, neon UV and Halloween specific colors. Highly pigmented, quick drying and easy to apply and remove, our formula is perfect for beginners and makeup artists alike. These premium quality face paints give excellent, smooth coverage and are gentle on the skin. 100% Vegan. Fill: 36g. 888-755-5578; info@camdenpassage.com; camdenpassage.com
Hms. Don’t miss out on our top-selling Salem-inspired Witch Hat (item #78-9147BK). Coming in different colors and designs soon! 800-361-1060 and 514-244-8492; email edith dempsey at edith@hmsltd.ca
Pirate dressing. Our Woodland Muse Dress (design #C1883) lets customers step into a fairytale. Crafted from a soft linen blend, it features a flattering square neckline adorned with delicate buttons, romantic puffed sleeves with lace-up details, and a flowy, pleated skirt — all perfect for embracing the Cottagecore aesthetic. Available in Apricot, Army Green, Bismark Blue, Black, Goldenrod Yellow, Rust, and White in sizes ranging from S to 4XL. Ideal for garden parties, countryside strolls, or any whimsical occasion. 323-284-7201; info@thepiratedressing.com; thepiratedressing.com
NCA M ARKETPLACE
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.
BUYER ’ S GROUP
2025 nca b uyer’s g roup
A major NCA member benefit is the long list of discounts available exclusively to NCA members. Below is the list of companies that have pledged you these discounts. Please be sure you write your NCA member number on all your orders to receive your discounts. Please also thank our Vendor Members for their unique support of the National Costumers Association. NOTE: These are only the discounts known at press time. In the next issue of The costumer a more complete Buyer’s Group will be published. And an update list will be provided to members at the Halloween & Party Expo.
CAMDEN PASSAGE (GOLD)
www.camdenpassage.com
(888) 755-5578
fax (888) 955-5578
info@camdenpassage.com
115 First St., Collingwood, ON L9Y 4W3
Contact: Anuja Mehta
Specialties: Camden is the manufacturer of Loox
Cosmetic Contact Lenses and the North American distributor for Moon Makeup. We are an ISO 13485 & MDSAP certified organization. Moon Makeup - leading manufacturer of Face Paints and Fun & Bold Cosmetics. Our extensive range includes Neon UV, Glow in the Dark, Bio Glitter, Face Paints and Halloween makeup. All available in counter-top displays, boxsets or clamshell packaging. Made in the UK to cosmetic grade standards and not tested on animals. US FDA and Health Canada compliant. Loox Contact Lenses - Our cosmetic lenses are a great all year product, we stock over 200 designs. All Loox lenses are ISO 13485 & MDSAP certified, US FDA and Health Canada cleared for safe and legal retailing.
Discount: 5% Off Invoice.
Terms: Net 30 OAC. Working with us is easy. There is no minimum order, we are in stock yearround and offer free shipping on orders over $500. Typically, orders are delivered within two days of receiving them. You will have access to our high-res image library containing thousands of product images, beauty shots and videos. Further, we can work directly with you to create custom POS materials for your store.
CINEMA SECRETS (SILVER)
www.cinemasecrets.com (818) 846-0579
fax: (818) 846-0431
woochie@cinemasecrets.com
6639 Odessa Ave., Los Angeles, CA 91406
Contact: Paulette Zagaryan
Specialties: Leaders in Halloween latex appliances and makeup kits. Choose from a range of hundreds of character and injury kits at affordable prices.
Discount: All members receive 10% off list prices year around.
Terms: Please refer to our price list or contact us for full list of Terms and Conditions.
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: Kevin LeMaster
Specialties: Licensed costumes and accessories. Discount: Costumes & Accessories: 10% or 7 % off list price depending on method of payment. Discounts do not apply to closeouts or special buys. Minimum order to qualify for the Premium NCA Discount: $2500. Opening orders must be received in writing by Disguise by 2/14/2025 to receive full benefits. No extensions will be granted. For Members placing their opening order by 2/14/2025, a 1% Defective Allowance (DA) will apply to all orders placed for 2025. Members placing opening orders by 2/14/2025 will continue to receive full program discounts on all reorder activity for the 2025 season. Members who do not place orders by 2/14/2025 will realize only the benefits of the Disguise Standard Discount schedule and return policy. Please reach out to your sales rep for full NCA program details.
DG BRANDS (DREAMGIRL & DREAMGUY) (SILVER)
www.dreamgirldirect.com
+1 323-268-0220
sales@dgbrands.com
5548 Lindbergh Lane, Bell, CA 90201
Contact: DG Sales & Customer Service
Specialties: Transform into your wildest fantasies with DG Brands! From charming characters to lavishly luxe historical classics, our COSTUMES, WIGS, and ACCESSORIES are here to bring the fun and flair to your dress-up adventures. Whether you’re flying solo, coupling up, or rocking a group theme, Dreamgirl & Dreamguy Costumes add that cheeky, exciting twist to make every moment unforgettable!
Discount: For NCA Members: $1 - $5,000 = 3%
Discount; $5,001 - $10,000 = 4% Discount; $10,001 – Over = 5% Discount
Terms: Payment Terms (Halloween Dating) available to credit approved customers. A Credit Application must be submitted for consideration
ELLIE SHOES INC. (SILVER)
www.ellieshoes.com (714) 773-2995 fax (714) 771-0057
leslie@ellieshoes.com
1050 N. Batavia Street #B, Orange, CA 92867
Contact: Leslie Wandell
Specialties: Ellie Shoes has footwear for all your costuming needs!
Discount: 5% year round – Show specials to be announced
Terms: Please have NCA membership number included on the purchase order, e-mail, or fax. Halloween dating subject to CIT approval.
FOAM PARTY HATS (SILVER)
www.foampartyhats.com (713) 264-2364
manuel.rojas@foampartyhats.com
3526 Lang Rd., Suite A11, Houston, TX 77092
Specialties: Foam hats, foam wigs, foam products. Discount: 10% for orders of $2,500 and above.
Terms: Orders can be placed online, email or over the phone. All orders are prepaid before shipping. Terms can be offered on subsequent orders for orders of minimum $1,500.
FUNNY FASHION USA (SILVER)
www.funnyfashion.com
(719) 260-7744
fax (719) 260-7743
order@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: 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. Tradeshow specials to be announced!
Terms: Halloween Dating November 10, 2025 WAC, FOB Funny Fashion Distribution Point.
BUYER ’ S GROUP
FUN WORLD/INCHARACTER (SILVER)
www.fun-world.net
(516) 873-9000 ext. 256 fax (516) 873-9005
alexl@fun-world.net
80 Voice Road, Carle Place, NY 11514
Contact: Alex Losito
Specialties: Halloween: Licensed and Generic 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 Costume orders can be combined to make free freight. This is only available to a USA-based shipto address. International members must supply us with their freight forwarder details at time of order. Please call or email for details.
GRAFTOBIAN MAKE-UP (SILVER)
www.graftobian.com
(608) 222-7849
fax (608) 222-7893
calvincoffman@graftobian.com
510 Tasman St., Madison, WI 53714
Contact: Calvin Coffman
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: 5% off Wholesale immediately (some exclusions apply). At $5,000 YTD, discount increases to 10% off. At $10,000 YTD, discount increases to 15% off.
HM SMALLWARES LTD (SILVER)
www.hmsltd.ca (514) 244-8492
edith@hmsltd.ca
PO Box 3172, Champlain, NY 12919
Contact: Edith Dempsey
Specialties: Better quality hats, accessories, horns and accoutrements. World renowned leatherlike and supersoft products. Halloween and Christmas décor.
Discount: 10% discount on first time order and 5% discount on all reorders, Minimum order $500.00. Terms: Visa/Mastercard. Halloween orders should be placed ASAP. We stock and ship all year round.
IVY TRADING INC (SILVER)
www.cutiecollections.com
626-442-9008
ivyinc2002@yahoo.com
9853 Max Shapiro Way, Unit A South El Monte, CA 91733
Contact: Wendy Zhao
Specialties: Costumes Accessories: wings, wands, tutus, head wears for babies, kids and adults. Everyday dress ups for fairy parties and birthday parties. Discount: 5% on orders of $500 and up; $10% on orders $1000 and up; $15% on orders $5000 and up.
KROEGER INC. (SILVER)
www.kroegerinc.com (416) 752-4382
tracym@kroegerinc.com
727 Tapscott Rd., Scarborough, ON M1X 1A2
Contact: Tracy Machin
Specialties: Licensed/Generic Costumes; Costume Accessories; Décor; Games/HLWN addons. Discount: $0 - $1,999 = 5% Off (no discount on freight); $2,000 - $4,999 = 10% Off (5% freight cap); $5,000 + = 10% Off (free freight).
Terms: Nov. 10 dating(OAC). Early Buy/Show Order Deadline: Jan 31, 2025.
LOFTUS (SILVER)
www.loftus.com (800) 453-4879
fax (888) 871-7375
sales@loftus.com
jacob@loftus.com
Contacts: Jacob White
Specialties: We have what you need! Loftus carries a vast array of products under one roof, giving you the convenience of a one-stop-shopping experience. We offer a large selection of Halloween & seasonal items along with everyday products to help generate sales year-round. Our product lines range from costume accessories, make-up, wigs, hats, masks, décor, magic/novelties, balloons, decorator supplies, party favors and impulse items. In addition, our partnerships with some of the best manufacturers
in the industry make Loftus a genuine value to the members of the National Costumers Association.
Discount: ALL year long, NCA members receive our top-tier premium pricing and our highest available discounts across ALL product categories. Also free freight on all orders over $500 to a USA-based ship-to address.
Terms: NCA members receive free freight on all orders over $500 to a USA-based ship-to address. Minimum order $100.00. Loftus accepts VISA, Mastercard, Discover or American Express.
Halloween dating and terms available to credit approved customers. Some restrictions may apply, contact your sales rep for further information.
MANIC PANIC (See TISH AND SNOOKY’S MANIC PANIC)
MOM – MY OTHER ME FUN COMPANY (See KROEGER)
MUSTACHES (SILVER)
mustachesb2b.com
+37-06-992-1066
sales@mustaches.eu
Pramones str. 16F, Altus 62175, Lithuania
Contact: Tomas Siuipys
Specialties: We are manufacturers of high-quality fake mustaches and beards. We offer more than 1500 SKUs to choose from. We make mustaches in Europe (Lithuania) and ship worldwide. Shipment to the U.S. takes only 4-5 days. Our distributor in the USA is LOFTUS. They sell our products at the same prices as we do. Minimum orders and shipment terms are significantly lower. Please contact LOFTUS for more information.
Discount: We offer a 21 percent discount from our list price. MOQ per item is 6 pieces. The minimum order is $500. There is a $150 shipping fee, but orders above $1,500 get free shipping. Shipping takes 4-5 days.
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
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.
STARLINE LA/PARTY KING (SILVER)
www.starline.la (949) 209-8804
sales@starline.la
6300 Columbia Rd., Mineral Wells, TX 76067
Contact: Sales Department
Specialties: Starline LA and Party King Costumes are your ultimate costume dream team! From fresh, trendsetting designs to fan-favorite classics, we’ve got everything to make your costume game legendary. Known for our top-notch quality and stunning styles, we’re here to help you steal the spotlight. Got a unique vision? We’ve got your company covered with custom and private label designs tailored just for you!
Discount: We offer an 8% discount to NCA members throughout the year.
SUNNYWOOD, INC. (GOLD)
www.sunnywood.net (815) 675-9777
fax (815) 675-9788
order@sunnywood.net
2750 Barney Ct., McHenry, IL 60051
Contact: Tammy Semiletow
Specialties: Exquisite Tiaras, Headpieces, Men’s Crowns, Period Pieces, Flappers, Costumes, Santa Suits, Bunnies, Accessories and so much more.
Discount: All year long, you receive dozen pricing on single piece items and special promotions exclusively for NCA members. Member Privileges cannot be used in combination with any other special discounts or promotions.
TISH AND SNOOKY’S MANIC PANIC NYC (SILVER)
manicpanicwholesale.com
877-516-2642
fax: 718-937-6172
retail@manicpanic.com
21-07 Borden Ave 4th floor
Long Island City, NY 11101
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 welcomed to apply for net terms based on credit application.
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 including weapons, boas, wings, hats & helmets. Discount: Underwraps Costumes offers an early buy program based on volume. When orders are placed by the deadline (TBD:late January), members can receive an additional 8% discount just by placing their order before the deadline as well as an additional 3% NCA member discount on top of the early buy volume discount (from 3%-9%). Overall discount can be 11%-20% off the full Early Buy order.
Terms: Initial order must meet $500 minimum.
WESTERN FASHION, INC. (SILVER)
www.westernfashioninc.com (909) 627-9551
sales@westernfashioninc.com
5236 Bell Ct., Chino, CA 91710
Contact: PJ Gupta
Specialties: Rental High-Quality Costumes ranging from Pirate, Flapper, and Victorian. Also, we specialize in Festival, Rave, and Party Items.
Discount: Free Shipping, please mention NCA Member when placing the order.
Terms: Halloween Dating to credit approved customers.
WOLFE FX / DENTAL DISTORTIONS
(SILVER)
www.wolfefx.com
www.dentaldistortions.com (407) 730-9820
sales@wolfefx.com
6210 All American Blvd., Orlando, FL 32810
Contact: Nigel Febland, 917-864-1685, TheFeBlandGroup@gmail.com
Specialties: We focus on professional quality makeup, Dental Distortions movie teeth, and other products. The majority of our products include step-by-step, clear descriptions and images. They are available for the makeup artist as well as the everyday user.
Discount: NCA Members receive 5% off wholesale price all year.
Terms: $300 minimum order, FOB Orlando, Florida. Credit card payment required.
BUYER ’ S GROUP
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: Kenneth Llambelis
Specialties: Professional makeup for Performance, Special FX, Cosplay, Face & Body Paint, and Creative 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 $7,500. Once achieved, the discounts apply for the rest of the year. Discount applies to 2025 Mehron Dealer Wholesale Pricing. $500 minimum first order, $250 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.
ELOPE, INC. (SILVER) www.elope.com (719) 328-1312
customerservice@elope.com
2080 Lookout Dr., North Mankato, MN 56003
Specialties: A diverse selection of creative, licensed, and original costume headwear, eyewear, and accessories.
Discount: On all member orders, 5% discount (excluding Disney and sale items).
Terms: Pay by credit card for the first three orders. After that, Net 30 terms are available with approved credit.
M Y F AVORITE C OSTUME
Helene Goncalves
Metro Boutique
Portland, Oregon
Established in Portland, Oregon, in 1999, Metro Boutique has become a go-to shop for anyone looking for funky clothing, costumes, hosiery, masks, Ravewear, platform shoes, wigs, lingerie, body jewelry.
“It’s a year-around safe haven for all who love to dress up for any event or performance!” says owner Helen Goncalves, who notes that she and her team also pride themselves on customer engagement. “Portland is very into customization! We look to find pieces that everyone can build their outfits with. Whether you are dressing up for Halloween, Pride parades, the renaissance fair or dancing the night away, Metro Boutique has got your back!”
With all of the options she has to choose from, what does Goncalves consider a favorite from the myriad costumes she and her team have helped customers create over the years?
“It’s hard to pick a single favorite costume!” she says. Instead, Goncalves highlights several costumes staff wore during one of the shop’s Halloweekends.
“We dress up most days during October. Not only does
that inspire customers with costume/makeup ideas for products we have on hand, but the staff love it! “ Goncalves says. “For the theme that the staff chose, they unanimously went with a Beetlejuice motif. We had a classic sheet ghost, a bridal Lydia Deetz, feminine and masculine Beetlejuice and our hauntingly gorgeous owner as a vampiric Countess!”
The picture she shares is a favorite “because it shows the versatility and customization of the costumes we carry,” Goncalves explains. “We always keep a ‘pulse’ on pop culture and when we decided on a ‘Land of the Dead’ theme for one of Halloweekend dress up days, all the staff wanted to be a part of it and do some sort of Beetlejuice or Burton costume!”
And how did they all feel about the finished creations?
“Look at us,” Goncalves says. “Admittedly, we look amazing!”
What is your favorite costume? To be considered for an upcoming My Favorite Costume profile, email Editor Kathleen Furore at kfurore@yahoo.com.
