I’m a professional costume and prop maker as well as manager of Exploration Commons at 50 East. My passion is making and education, so the transition or combination of my hobby and my occupation is an easy one. I also have great pride for Westminster and love influencing the local community to do more and strive for better. Networking and connecting community members is one of my favorite parts of a managerial position within our library system, and this allows me to bring more opportunities to our community as well. During my off-time, I am working to make high-end costumes for companies like Hacksmith Industries and gaming companies. I also have two children, but I emphasize going to bed at a regular time and getting a full night of sleep to keep up with my ambitions during the day.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family. Include your pets too!
I have a son and daughter and have been married to my husband for over a decade. He runs a local martial arts school, and we work well together in our professional and personal lives.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have a Bachelor of Science and studied so I could be a zookeeper, which I was for several years before starting a career in marketing and now making. I have always been creative, so I’ve spent years in jobs that, while related, are no longer a major part of my life. I was a bakery owner and have even served as the assistant to a State Representative.
Q: What is one of your favorite quotes or lines in a song and why does it resonate with you?
“Come what may, time and hour run through the roughest day.” When things seem overwhelmingly difficult and time feels like it is standing still and you’re stuck in a dark place, I’m reminded that time is unbiased and continues…the world continues…and people continue, despite heartache. And this too shall pass.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Don’t wait for others to give you a cue to make a move. There comes a time when everyone makes a transition from being a child to an adult, and a big part of that transition is taking action when action needs taken rather than waiting for someone to give direction. This is what makes a leader.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite places or events in our community?
My favorite place is Exploration Commons, where I work. It’s a hub for creativity, and it’s state-of-the-art! We are so lucky to have this space and access, and it’s a privilege to walk into work every day here.
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Westminster or looking to move to Westminster?
Only join Westminster online groups for the fun of it. Don’t take it too seriously.
Q: What 3 words come to mind when you think of Westminster?
Community, technology, suburb
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes?
I really love playing video games, and this is a big part of why I also love costuming from games as well.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Akira ramen!
Q: What is one of your proudest accomplishments?
I feel really proud of my cosplay connections and it’s a big accomplishment to be contacted by companies that I’ve only ever dreamed of working with.
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
Go back to Japan.
Q: What would you buy/do if you won the lottery?
Probably would purchase land for future use.
Q: What is something even your family and friends may not know about you?
I don’t think there’s anything I keep a secret, unfortunately.
Q: What has been a challenge you have had to overcome? (life, school, work, family, health, etc)
I used to live through others rather than as an individual. When that came crashing down, it was like I had to reinvent myself – and I was already halfway through college.
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
I have many people I admire, but ‘hero’ is a specific word I don’t think I have an answer for.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where in Westminster would you meet for this lunch?
I think I’d like to have lunch with Lady Gaga. She’s ambitious and has been through some stuff. Probably would take her to get Cajun veggie breakfast sandwich from Collision Course!
Q: How can our readers and I know if someone we come in contact with is a good connection for you or a good person for you to meet? Please include your website link if you have one!
www.plexicosplay.com
