Scene

Posing as Ashe Outside

“That bow is SICK.”

I turned my head as a teenage boy said that to his friend, and I smirked a little. This wasn’t my first encounter with my fans that weekend. Yes, I said my fans. It felt like I was the popular girl in school. Almost like a celebrity. It wasn’t what I expected. And that was only the beginning.

Before the Con

Ashe bathroom selfie

This is what you would’ve seen walking down the street, riding the subway, stopping for lunch before stepping through a portal into another dimension: the Seattle Convention Center.

Just a regular human - on the outside. But inside? I was me. And what everyone else saw, was Ashe, a champion ready to fight on Summoner’s Rift.

Remember that - because later, that sentiment would change.

The High

Holding the bow at home

Here are some of the things I heard over the weekend:

  • “How heavy is that bow?!” (me: proceeds to hand it over so they can try)
  • “I love your cosplay, can I get a picture?”
  • “Ashe!!!”
  • “My roommate is such an Ashe fan, can I get a picture?”
  • Shouting from a car window rolled down “I like your costume, you look great!”
  • “Are you from WoW (World of Warcraft)?” (I guess I must’ve looked close enough for the con’s cosplay bingo card. But seriously…do I look like I’m Alliance to you?)
  • From professional photographers “Do you mind if I get some pictures?”
  • From a child walking by at the bow twice his size “WHOAA!”

All weekend, I was in a constant state of being seen.

How It Changed Me

The attention was - not gonna lie - a huge confidence boost. I’ve been to several ren fairs, where everyone’s dressed up. You fit in.

But here, I stood out. People actually recognized (somehow) or just thought I looked awesome enough to say something. I knew, early on: I HAD to do it again.

I started planning for the next con. And then the one after that.

I’m even going to practice acting - my cosplay weakness. I can look amazing, but I need to study how these characters behave and speak. It’s tricky when I don’t actually play the games my characters are from.

Now

Bambu printer printing

I’ve got plans. I’m learning a new skill: 3D printing. And now I’m making this big-ass gun.

Screenshot of Viper from Overwatch

I’m becoming Ashe. Again. But this time from Overwatch. The name is just a coincidence - but I like her story. I vibe with her.

Final Thoughts

Up until 2025, I didn’t really consider myself a cosplayer. I made some things. I tried a few times. I rarely finished.

But this time? Something clicked.

I’m not sure if I’ve earned the title yet - but I want it. I’m building the skills. I’m showing up. I’m learning.

Maybe being a cosplayer doesn’t start when you finish your first costume. Maybe it starts the moment you decide to do it again.