#FeatureFriday with Catherine Banman

Today I'm excited to share an interview with the lovely Catherine. We frequent the same cons and she's such a delight! Read her full interview below!

My name is Catherine Banman, I am a cosplayer from the lovely city of Edmonton! I am just your regular weirdo who loves many things nerdy!

How and when did you get into cosplay?
I got into cosplay when I was helping out at the Cherry Sauce (now Filthy Casual) in 2012. They invited me to go down to the Calgary Expo and help out at their booth. I was sort of going through a rough patch at the time, so of course I decided to jump on the idea of getting out of town and hanging out with friends! A couple days before the expo I decided to grab costume from a local costumes store and dress up for the weekend. I dressed up as Silk Spectre from The Watchman.

After that weekend of fun, and seeing all the other amazing cosplayers, it just, inspired me. I have always been quite crafty and I grew up learning to sew from my mother. She used to sew all the dance costumes for the studio that I danced at for many years as a kid. So after that weekend, I decided to use some of those sewing skills mixed with my love of nerdy things, and try to it out!

What do you do when you're not in cosplay or geeking out?
When I'm not cosplaying, I work full time at a heavy duty mechanic shop in the service department. It is beyond fun and enjoyable. I work with so many awesome and supportive people. I am also a mother of a wonderful 5 year old girl, Nebraska. So between those two things and my geeking out, I am a pretty busy lady!

What is your proudest cosplay accomplishment?
My proudest cosplay accomplishment would probably have to be, my Pyramid Head from Silent Hill. It took many tries and attempts. But I love it. I had quite a few tips in regards to supplies from a bunch of my co-workers. They helped me get what I needed to in order to make it look sweet. I look forward to making more challenging cosplays. And honestly, I may end up making a upgraded version of Pyramid Head.

What cosplay(s) are you working on right now?
I am currently working on Shredder (TMNT) and Jinx (LoL). Slowly but surely.

They are both quite challenging to me. I am used to doing lots of sewing, not so much building. But I am looking forward to getting them done and rocking them!

Who is your cosplay idol/inspiration?
Man, where to begin, I have so many inspirations, Jessica Nigri, of course. Alyson Tabbitha, Adrestia, Miss Chezza, and so many more! They are all so kind, welcoming and caring. Not to mention helpful and supportive. I am lucky enough to share booths at Edmonton and Calgary Expo with Miss. Chezza for the last few cons. Which has been a totally fun time!

With all the negativity in the cosplay community these days, what's a positive message you would like to enforce and encourage others with?
I guess my message would be, stay true to yourself. Cosplay is for fun! Its a way to share our passion within the geek community. Its a way to express our love for nerdy things. Keep it light and fun! The Geek community is an escape, its our tiny little freedom from reality. It’s a break from the world of adulting and responsibilities. Cosplay is a great way to share a passion between fellow humans and to support each other. Be positive, be helpful, be nice!!!

What is your dream cosplay?
Man, my dream cosplay would be a Mandalorian! I did mildy attempt making one a couple years back. But it was a little to fresh too me. Now that I have a few more techniques and skills under my belt, I would love to try again. Maybe just maybe within a year or two!

What is your favorite convention to attend and why?
My favorite convention would be Calgary Expo. It was my first ever convention and I just love that atmosphere. It always feels so welcoming and supportive. I have met so many amazing people there and made so many new memories. Its amazing.

Do you have any cosplay or convention pet peeves?
I guess my only convention/cosplay pet peeves, is the negativity. When people choose to knock others down, or say, well this person did it better. etc. its a bummer! It shouldn’t be a competition (well unless your in the cosplay competition) but, it shouldn’t turn so, well negative. People can show up in store bought costumes, hand made, etc. Cosplay is about dressing up as our fave characters and just having fun. I wish that more people would spread the love!!!

Do you have any horror stories or mistakes you've made that others can learn from?
I guess my main horror story would be not bringing repair supplies to a convention! Had major costume malfunctions to a costume and nothing to fix it. Thankfully, some fellow cosplayers came to my rescue with a glue gun and some safety pins!

Do you have any tips or words of encouragement for other cosplayers?
HAVE FUN! I cant stress it enough. Sometimes the process can be frustrating, but if it becomes a chore, and not a fun hobby, whats the point? SUPPORT FELLOW COSPLAYERS! Positive comments or helpful tips can go a long way. I have had times where I have felt like garbage because of my costumes, and some supportive comments or helpful hints, completely changed my outlook. I was able to tweek a couple things, then boom! Happiness to the max!

Do you have anything else you want to say, or add to this interview?
Thank you so much for having me for this interview. You are a fantastic inspiration on so many levels girl. Stay safe and have fun everyone!!!

Where can we find you on all things social?
IG: @catherinebanmancosplay
Facebook
Twitter: @catherinebanman

All photos in this interview by Chelsey Stacey.

What a humble and sweet woman! I hope you enjoyed reading that as much as me! Go follow her on all things social.

​If you or someone you know deserves to be on the blog, send me a message!