Halloween can be so much fun – for children and for adults alike. Maybe you are considering making your child’s costume for school contest – or maybe you decided to make an impact at a party you are going to, or the one you are planning to host.
How to make your costume a success? Here are a few tips for you that will help!
1.     Before you start any planning. Find out how you are going to be judged. Find out what categories there will be and if you will be judged by a panel of judges or the audience.
2.     Check if there are past years winner’s photos available anywhere- that can give you an idea what is popular
3.     If this is a school contest, remember that kids and teenagers will judge differently than adults
4.     If you are considering a contest in a bar or at a party, something outrageous or sexy will probably do really well.
5.     Next – consider ideas – best way is to start brainstorming with your family or friends. You can also do research on the web – thousands of ideas there!
6.     Sketch out the idea considering your strengths and weaknesses. That means that if you are not experiences with a sewing machine, don’t start on a costume that will require that. You would be surprised what you can make with a glue gun and a stapler!
7.     Have a budget – and when you are setting it, don’t forget accessories – ie. Jewellery
8.     Be careful not to choose a costume that would need explaining
9.     If you at all can, incorporate an element of surprise: funny, cute, outrageous, etc. – originality always scores high!
10.  Try out your costume, including any make-up or accessories, ahead of time
11.  When you are “rehearsing”. Remember that it is not only what you wear but how you wear it as well. Getting into the character is important to success of your costume! What you want to accomplish is that whoever is judging you will remember you.
12.  Watch other contest participants – in case you don’t win, you will want to remember what it took to get the top prize!
Have fun with this and send in your comments and suggestions – your input is always welcomed!
