Let me just set the record straight right now: I’m a nerd at heart.  I read a few comic books back in the day and if there was a movie or TV show based on one, I guarantee you, I’ve seen it.  I’m a sci-fi loving, pin trading, source material reading, Disney mom and action-adventure fan.  And yet, after all this time, I had never been to a convention!  I remember my brother and I begging to go to the Star Trek Convention as kids but we were never so lucky….fast forward 30 years and it’s finally my turn!!

Last week, I was invited to attend the Long Beach Comic Expo and honestly had no idea what to expect.  I did however, know that I was expecting Baby #2 (henceforth called Baby Lucky) so opted to not participate in cosplay.  Still, I managed to have a great time, meet some amazing artists and storytellers and the experience left me wanting more!

Upon arriving at the Long Beach Convention Center, we were greeted by a row of comic inspired cars, cars that appeared in films and film replicas that were a sight unto themselves.  There were even pint-sized wheels that my toddler could explore.

The lobby was crawling with cosplayers that ran the gamut of pretty much anything related to comics or science fiction including classics like Thunder Cats to newcomer Stranger Things.  My personal favorite was the creativity of the Star Wars Steam Punk Universe.  Fun fact, they are the only charity group approved by Lucas Film to use “Star Wars” as part of their group name!  Special thanks to photographer Ken Hamada for sending me this picture.  Be sure to check out his other images from the convention on his Facebook page!

Actress Casey Dacanay & husband Tom Marshall pose with Star Wars Steam Punk Universe cosplayers at LBCC

photo: Ken Hamada

Inside, a maze of exhibitors, artists, authors, designers, retailers combined with cosplayers and enthusiastic guests made for a tangible entertainment experience. I was proud to be able to support the indie horror film, “Attack of the Southern Fried Zombies” (formerly “Kudzu Zombies”) due out in select theaters March 13th with actors Escalante Lundy, a friend of a friend, and Moses J. Moseley.  The film will be available on Digital & DVD at the same time as its theatrical release….check it out!

Next time, I plan on being able to show a little more spirit (and hopefully be able to support even more friends!).  Due to its size, I think LBCE was a good entry-level convention and I hope more are in my future!  I don’t know that I’m quite ready for the crowds of a larger convention yet….I definitely need to work up to it and figure out HOW to focus on the things I am most interested in and not go broke.  Looking forward to the next event!