Conversations with Story Teller Cosplay

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sophia Javelli.

Hi Sophia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have been cosplaying for 20+ years and it started out as a hobby. It wasn’t until about the last 10 years that I took it more seriously as a profession. Specifically for owning my small resin cosplay accessories business, it was around 2018 that I got into it and then started doing it full time around 2020. Since then, I’ve done some work for companies such as Atlus/SEGA, Viz Media, Capcom, Platinumgames, and Wizards of the Coast. I have done some various prop work and sewing work for these companies.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There were some struggles for sure. Before 2020, I was working multiple jobs while also pursuing my passion—I wanted to make sure I had a fail safe since I couldn’t fully support myself with just my passion yet. So I was very tired during that time of my life. When I decided to do this full time around 2020, of course it was around the start of the pandemic and I was so worried that my business would not take off because of the state of the world. Fortunately, my online sales bloomed since everyone was inside and a lot of people were buying things online. That was a risk that I took that luckily worked out.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a seamstress/costumer and prop artist. I specialize in resin casting and mold making as well as sewing work. I am mostly known for my resin horns and their nice shiny and clean finishes with unique inclusions. I love making these cosplay accessories for others since it’s a way for me to share my love of cosplay and costuming with others. I also work at conventions (Anime, fandom, video game, or TCG themed, etc) as a cosplay guest or featured cosplayer. I run panels on how to get into cosplay, some educational and some on body positivity, etc. Because of my professional background as well, I will also judge craftsmanship contests at these events. As a featured cosplayer, I will work events dressed as specific characters that the company or event would like me to cosplay.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My family and friends are a huge part of my success. My parents didn’t really get it at first but over time, they realized my love for it and what I can do and have supported me. My husband is a huge supporter of my business and success. He not only taught me a lot of what I know, but is also my confidant. Without the amazing people in my life, I wouldn’t be where I am.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Storytellercosplay.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/storytellercosplay
• Other: https://Storytellercosplay.carrd.co