It’s time once more for another cosplayer interview! This next one, shared from Cosplay Blog with a Brain, is an interview with Neko~Kaolla, a lovely gal from Florida!

Neko~Kaolla as Giselle from Enchanted, photo by Maboroshi

What’s your cosplay alias and why did you choose it?
“Neko~Kaolla” because in high school I was always “Neko” and my friends said I was a lot like Kaolla Suu from “Love Hina.” There you go. Lately I also go by JuJuKitten because my friends call me Juju and Kitten… well… that’s obvious.

How many years have you been cosplaying and what got you started?
Since 2002!! My friend asked me to perform with her at Megacon and the rest is history. I was Sailor Neptune and we performed “Sailor War Surpreme” with a full cast.

What has been some of your favorite things to work with when constructing costumes and why?
I love experimenting, so I’m good with everything. But I seem to work a lot with wire and plastic cutting boards…

Neko~Kaolla as Mello from Death Note, photo by Maboroshi

What are you excited to be working with in the future and why?
Anything, really. I have a lot planned so I do them when I get the opportunity. I know this year I’m part of a MASSIVE ZELDA SHOOT OF DOOM as Navi and I’m really looking forward to that.

What are some of the traits you like to see in other costumes and who do you think does well in them?
Cleanliness is key. Hem hem hem! I also like telling you tried. Even if you’re new to sewing, as long as you put your all into it, you win. You have to start somewhere after all! I’m not going to single anyone out because I know a lot of talented cosplayers!!

What is your view of the “cosplay scene”?
We’re all just nerds in costumes. No one is above another. It’s fun meeting others through cosplay. Helps you realize what you have in common when it comes to favorite characters and series, and a great conversation started. I also love seeing what people come up with!

What are some of the things you want to see change in the scene?
I don’t like all the partying. Nothing wrong with some drinks and having fun, but I hate how irresponsible people are. Also how quick people are to believe lies and then disregard any evidence of the truth. We’re adults. Be open minded.

Neko~Kaolla as Chii from Chobits, photo by Pixel

What is some advice you could give people starting to get into cosplay?
Don’t be nervous and try your best. Do it for fun, not for fame. Ignore what people say about you (people always will), and do it for YOU. No one else.

What are some of your favorite conventions you’ve attended and why?
Megacon will always be special to me, especially since it was my first con, cosplay, contest, and award all on a crazy Saturday in 2002. Plus you see some KILLER costumes! I enjoyed METROCON pre-2009, then lost interest. They had awesome shows and the costumes are always top-notch (especially when they hosted Yume). ShadoCon is a new con around here that has a lot of potential, and I really enjoy that one. They really cater to fans and I enjoy that.

Give a random fact about one of your costumes that you’re proud of!
Link had a TON of painting, embroidery, and quilting put into it… but you’d never really know less you looked into it. >.>

Koi

A cosplayer for over a decade now, Yunie is a giant nerd who still pretends she’s cool. She runs several sites on her own, including Engi no Shouzoku! Cosplay, Cosplay Blog with a Brain, and her store, Yunie’s Designs. An avid fan of fellow nerds, Yunie loves attending conventions and dorking around in costumes with all types. Oh, and if there’s shenanigans, even better!

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