Insides Out: 2012 NY Comic Con

So now that I’m back from NY Comic-Con and over the exhaustion, I’ve had some time to reflect on all the things I learned from my first major “con” – as a fan and as an exhibitor, and I wanted to share a few thoughts with you here.

First and foremost, if you write, what you dream about is meeting the people who will read and hopefully like your story.  I got to meet over 160 of you 2 weeks ago and it was the highlight of my life as an author so far.  I have already heard from some of you who have read and enjoyed the book and it is an honor to read your kind words. 

May the Force Be With You - Always

Second thing is how joyous it was to be around so many people who just let their weird hang all out.  When I told a friend of mine I was going, she said it was like a grown-up playland/fantasy and honestly, I couldn’t have put it better.  How often do you get to become your favorite superhero and walk around without a soul thinking you’re crazy?  Some people I met had been planning their costumes and/or trip to NY Comic-Con ALL YEAR.  For 4 days, you can be *anything* you want - in public - and no one will laugh or ridicule you.  In fact, someone will probably ask to take your picture.   The more out there you are, the more you will be celebrated. And believe me, I saw it all – from the truly avant-garde to the downright obscene.  You can bear your boobs or your creativity for all to see. 

Looking as average as I did, at first, I thought I would feel out of place, but then I realized that “normal” was ok too, because the folks in costume were really just turned inside out.  On the other 361 days of the year that aren’t NY Comic-Con, they look just like me.  But for 4 days, I can look at each person with their cape or light saber and smile because we both know that on the inside, I look just like them.  

In this special world of fantasy and fiction, anyone can let their insides come screaming out in honor of all of us whose souls know magic and refuse to forget it.  If you can’t tell already, I loved every single minute of it.  The only thing I would change is that next year I will have to figure out a way to get beyond my booth for more than a bathroom break.   As much weirdness as I was able to take-in, I know there is SO much more to enjoy.  For a glimpse of all that was weird and wonderful about NY Comic-Con 2012, check out my Pinterest album here and as you peruse the images ask yourself, if you could be anyone for 4 days, who would it be, then bring that part of you to NY Comic-Con 2013 and I’ll see you there. 

If you’re out there, thanks for reading.

~ Cerece

p.s. For those writers who may be considering exhibiting at NY Comic-Con next year, I will be posting some tips that may help you in making a decision.  Check back here for the link.