Cosplay is more fun with friends! It’s really fun to do group cosplays from fandoms you all love. It can seem daunting to put together these groups, especially if you never have before. Fear not, because I will light the way and show you how easy it can be to make the most of your group.
There are a lot of decisions to be made when setting up groups, it can be easy to forget them. You will need to first decide on theme and deadline. If you are planning to do the group for a con, you will need to make sure all costume and props are welcomed at the con. If you are doing a photo shoot, you will need to find a location and a photographer. Make sure to contact the location you plan on shooting at to make sure you will be welcome and if there will be any fees. With photographers, be sure to get their rates and make sure that everyone can afford them. I would also recommend setting up guidelines about duplicates if they are allowed.
Once you have the basics set for your group, you will need to begin recruiting to fill your spots. First, you’ll want to ask people you know and can rely on getting the cosplay done. If you are really excited about getting a full group, you probably don’t want someone who rarely follows through with their commitments. If you still have open spots after asking friends, social media is a great way to get those filled. If you are going to a con, check to see if they have a cosplayer Facebook group and post in there. If you are aiming to do something more local, find your community’s Facebook groups and ask there. I have also filled spots by posting to my Instagram story
Once you have your group, I would recommend either setting up a Facebook group/event or a messenger chat with everyone for communication. This way, people can post their work in progress, any questions, or any other relevant information to the group. Have a pinned post with everyone’s character and their cosplay name so people can easily find who to tag in photos.
I would recommend planning a group at least five to six months out to give everyone sufficient time. Even if you give everyone enough time, be prepared for people to drop. Life happens and someone will drop. If you are dead set on having a full group, maybe find a few people who are willing to be any character and act as an understudy in case someone drops.
Check in with your group at least monthly until there is about two months from the event. At that point, I would communicate weekly so everyone is aware of what the plan is, if there are any last minute changes, and you can have people respond with works in progress.
By following these steps, you should be able to have a wonderful time with your group and not have as much to stress about when the day finally arrives. DO you have any other advice? Leave it in the comments!
Hawk Girl: Kai Frawg, Bat Woman: Personify Cosplay, PowerGirl: The Sloth Goth, Star Girl: Me, Louis Lane: Vonnie Stillson, Superman: John Einstman, Harley Quinn: Serafina Cosplay, Wonderwoman: Caloxidecosplay, Flash: Tadpole Photo: Mike Barry
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