Momocon 2025: Celebrating 20 Years of Fandom & Epic Moments!

Momocon 2025 was, without a shadow of a doubt, another absolutely legendary event for the books! My heart still buzzes with the sheer electric energy of it all. This isn't just a favorite convention; it is the favorite, and honestly, I don't see that ever changing. From the moment you step onto the convention floor, you're transported into a vibrant, living tapestry of creativity and passion.

The costumes, as always, were the undisputed top-billing, a breathtaking parade of artistry and dedication that left me utterly spellbound. I'm always, always amazed at the almost unbelievable precision and meticulous detail poured into each ensemble. We're talking about cosplayers who have spent countless hours perfecting every stitch, every prop, every piece of armor – from the gleaming, battle-worn plating of a video game hero, complete with glowing LED accents, to the flowing, ethereal gowns of anime princesses, adorned with intricate embroidery that looked like it stepped straight out of a fantasy realm. The sheer commitment to authenticity, the way they embody their characters with such grace and enthusiasm, is truly a sight to behold. It's a testament to the boundless imagination and skill within this community.

My first stop was an incredible encounter with the multifaceted talent that is actor, model, martial artist, and cosplayer, Jim Kelley. He exuded a calm, approachable energy that immediately drew you in. He didn't just sign autographs; he genuinely engaged, offering such profound and captivating insight into his remarkable journey in the industry. He spoke with a humble passion about the relentless dedication required for perfecting his martial arts skills on screen, detailing the grueling training regimens, the precision choreography, and the sheer physical and mental discipline it takes to make those cinematic fights look so real and impactful. It was fascinating to hear about the behind-the-scenes grind that elevates a performance.

Beyond the physical prowess, he shared anecdotes about rubbing elbows with notable Hollywood elite, not as a boast, but as a reflection of the incredible opportunities that arise from unwavering commitment to one's craft. He offered glimpses into the collaborative spirit on set, the invaluable lessons learned from seasoned veterans, and the unique challenges and triumphs of navigating the entertainment world. It was a true delight to get his industry insight from him first-hand – a candid, unfiltered perspective that you simply can't find in interviews. His words were not just informative; they were genuinely inspiring, reinforcing the idea that passion, hard work, and a willingness to embrace every step of the journey can truly open doors to extraordinary experiences.

Momocon isn't just about the guests or the costumes; it's the collective spirit, the shared excitement, the instant camaraderie you feel with fellow fans. It's the hum of excitement, the laughter echoing through the halls, the spontaneous photo shoots, and the discovery of new artists and creators. Every corner holds a new surprise, a new piece of art, or a new connection. This vibrant tapestry of fandom, creativity, and shared passion is precisely why Momocon holds such an unshakable place in my heart. It's more than a convention; it's an annual pilgrimage to a place where imagination thrives and community flourishes.

One of the biggest, a moment that truly transcended the typical convention experience, was finally coming face-to-face with the magnificent Toothless! For months, I had been religiously watching Toothless be built online through social media, following the intricate, painstaking progress of its creation. Every behind-the-scenes photo, every video snippet, showcased the incredible dedication and seemingly impossible detail in its construction. You could see the hours, the passion, and the sheer engineering brilliance poured into every scale and contour.

But seeing it in person? That was an entirely different universe of awesome. As I approached, the sheer scale of the dragon was awe-inspiring and truly took my breath away. And then, the magic happened: to see this meticulously crafted masterpiece blinking and reacting to being touched on the nose was priceless! It wasn't just a static prop; it felt alive, responding with a gentle blink of its enormous, expressive eyes and a soft, almost purring reaction to a friendly touch.

The seamless integration of technology and artistry, was utterly astounding. It transformed a fantastic creation into an interactive, emotional experience. It was an outstanding job! The artisans behind this Toothless deserve every single accolade; they didn't just build a prop, they brought a beloved character to life in the most enchanting way possible. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated wonder, easily one of the most memorable sights of the entire convention.

Building on the electrifying energy of Momocon, my next unforgettable encounter plunged me into the world of groundbreaking animation and inspiring personal vision. I had the immense privilege of meeting Hotep, the brilliant creator behind the highly acclaimed Black Lion and Cubs.

What makes Hotep's journey so incredibly compelling, so truly intriguing, is that he didn't even initially set out to launch a whole new anime phenomenon! Imagine this: a visionary, driven by pure, heartfelt intention, who was simply looking to fill a profound void. He was actually, quite simply, creating something deeply personal – an animated world specifically for his own children to watch and, crucially, to see themselves in it. This wasn't about market trends or industry demands; it was about genuine representation, about providing a mirror where his kids could witness heroes and narratives that reflected their own experiences, their own joy, their own strength. It was about crafting stories that would expand their imagination in ways that existing media simply wasn't.

But as with all truly powerful ideas, this personal endeavor, born from a father's love and a creator's foresight, has dramatically evolved into an entire enterprise! And let me tell you, I am absolutely, unequivocally here for it! The sheer organic growth from a passion project to a burgeoning animation studio, capturing the attention of countless fans and industry insiders, is a testament to the undeniable need for what Hotep is building. Hearing him speak about his HBCU roots didn't just add another layer to his inspiring narrative; it solidified, in the most profound way, that he could do anything he set his mind to. That foundation of resilience, innovation, and community spirit clearly fuels his audacious vision. It's a story of authentic creation, unexpected triumph, and profound cultural impact in the making. You simply must dive deeper into this captivating story; you can check out the full press junket here.

There's an undeniable thrill that courses through me when I spot those familiar vendor booths from previous years, especially when they return to Momocon with a renewed, almost crackling energy. It's like reuniting with old friends, but these friends always bring fresh, irresistible surprises to the party.

My absolute first, non-negotiable stop, even before the doors officially opened in my mind, was straight to Copper Coast Confections! Let me tell you, the sheer quality of their products is not just unmatched; it's practically legendary. Their booth is a veritable treasure trove, shimmering with rich, artisanal delights. I'm almost embarrassed to share just how much of my convention budget, and possibly a good chunk of my dignity, I joyfully surrendered to their incredible fudge last year. But it was worth every single penny!

What truly sets them apart, keeping me, and countless other devoted fans, in a perpetual state of anticipation, is their genius for always debuting new, mind-blowing creations. And this year, they've outdone themselves. My new, utterly obsessive favorite, the one that dreams are made of, would have to be their black cherry bourbon truffle. OMG! Just thinking about it sends shivers down my spine. It's not just good; it's ridiculously, sinfully, dangerously good! The perfect marriage of rich, dark chocolate, the subtle tang of black cherry, and that sophisticated whisper of bourbon... it's pure alchemy.

They are, by far, the best-crafted sweets I have ever encountered, period. With their decadent gourmet fudge, their exquisitely designed artisan truffles, and so much more. Copper Coast Confections isn't just selling sweets; they're selling pure, unadulterated bliss!

Turning from the sugary delights, a familiar, vibrant energy pulled me in another direction. My eyes landed on an unmistakable beacon of creativity: the Surreal Makeup vendor space! There’s an immediate jolt of excitement that comes from recognizing a brand you genuinely adore, and seeing owner Amanda herself, radiant amidst her dazzling display. I didn't hesitate for a second; I immediately embraced her, a testament to the warmth of this community and the genuine connection forged beyond just being a customer. Not only do I swear by her products, but I've also had the immense pleasure of hosting her on my own podcast to discuss her incredible line and the passion behind it.

Now, full disclosure: I'm not typically one to dive headfirst into the world of elaborate makeup. My routine is usually pretty minimal. But that’s precisely where Surreal Makeup becomes an absolute game-changer. This line, truly, makes it effortless for me to 'mess up' – meaning it's so intuitive and flattering, it's virtually impossible to apply it incorrectly! It’s designed for real people who want stunning results without needing professional artistry. All weekend long, I was basking in a steady stream of compliments, all thanks to the gorgeous "Enchanted" from their Carousel line. The way it shimmered and caught the light, adding just the right touch of magic, made me feel effortlessly put-together and subtly glamorous.

Amanda and her dynamic team, buzzing with an infectious enthusiasm, were quick to introduce me to some tantalizing new goodies that were already gaining serious buzz across the convention floor. It was thrilling to witness their excitement as they showcased products that were clearly resonating with everyone. There's just something incredibly inspiring about seeing business owners like Amanda in their absolute element – radiating passion, connecting with their audience, and innovating right before your eyes. It’s not just a transaction; it’s an experience, a shared celebration of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that makes Momocon so uniquely exciting.

Continuing my exhilarating journey through the vibrant tapestry of Momocon, I soon had another incredible discovery – I practically stumbled upon the mesmerizing booth of Story Teller Cosplay! The moment my eyes landed on their display, I was instantly captivated. It wasn't just another vendor space; it was a portal to fantasy.

There, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Sophia, the visionary owner, who graciously shared the captivating origin story of her company. What makes her journey so incredibly inspiring is its authentic root in passion: Sophia was an avid cosplayer herself, deeply immersed in the craft, yet she constantly found herself unable to source the exact pieces she envisioned for her elaborate costumes. Imagine that creative frustration! It was her brilliant husband who made the insightful suggestion: "If you can't find it, why don't we create what you want?" This simple, yet profound, idea sparked an entrepreneurial flame, and soon after, Story Teller Cosplay was born!

And oh my goodness, their signature creations – these resin horns are absolutely incredible! They aren't just accessories; they are true works of art. The variety on display was staggering; from delicate, spiraling unicorn horns that seemed to glow from within, to dramatic, gnarled demonic horns perfect for a formidable character. The sheer array of color combinations and themes was mind-blowing, showcasing an endless spectrum of creativity. You could find horns with iridescent finishes that shifted colors with every angle, or those with intricate, hand-painted details that mimicked ancient stone or polished bone. I was utterly blown away at the craftsmanship – every curve, every texture, every subtle gradient of color spoke volumes about the meticulous attention to detail and artistic dedication poured into each piece. It's a testament to how a personal need can blossom into an extraordinary business, filling a niche with breathtaking beauty and unparalleled quality.

Following the vibrant energy of the cosplay and sweets, a serene shift in the convention's symphony of sounds and sights gently drew me in. It was as if a wave of calmness wrapped around me as I was irresistibly pulled towards yet another enchanting booth. This was the tranquil haven of Tea and Absinthe, a space that exuded an almost ethereal, very zen quality – a perfect counterpoint to the exhilarating chaos of the con.

This truly creative venture is the brilliant brainchild of Daniel Myers & Pacita Prasarn. I had the pleasure of meeting Daniel, and he recounted their origin story with such captivating detail, it felt less like a business pitch and more like a beautifully unfolding narrative. You could genuinely say it was life imitating art in the most poetic sense! Their very first creation, a unique blend they named "Starry Night," wasn't just a tea; it would unexpectedly turn out to be the keystone to a brand new adventure for them, launching them into this delightful enterprise. Imagine, a single, inspired blend paving the way for an entire world of aromatic discovery!

The array of teas on display was simply astounding, each described so deliciously that it felt like reading poetry. From rich, earthy notes that promised grounding comfort to bright, floral infusions hinting at a refreshing awakening, every one held the promise of a unique journey for the senses. I was thoroughly impressed not just by their innovative flavors, but by the evident passion and artistry behind each blend. The stories, the scents, the sheer thoughtfulness in their presentation – it all combined to create an experience far beyond just buying tea. I truly can't wait to get home, select a new blend, and brew a new pot, letting the aromas fill my space and transport me back to that serene, inspiring corner of Momocon.

The true emotional core of Momocon 2025, the moment that truly wrapped me in a wave of profound appreciation and pure awe, was stepping into the Momocon Museum! It wasn't just an exhibit; it was a beautifully curated, powerful surge of nostalgia that instantly transported me back through the years. Every display, every theme, every carefully placed asset, was a vivid reminder of previous years, flooding my mind with countless cherished memories of cosplay costumes, unforgettable panels, and the boundless joy shared with friends.

This museum wasn't just a trip down memory lane; it was a breathtaking testament to how far this event has come. To see the humble beginnings captured in those early mementos, with the immense scale and polished spectacle of today's convention, was nothing short of incredible. What an awesome display of growth, dedication, and the relentless passion that has fueled Momocon for two decades!

I can hardly believe that it has truly been 20 years since Momocon first opened its doors. The memory of my very first time there is etched vividly in my mind: the line was wrapped around Georgia Tech, a winding serpent of eager fans, stretching seemingly into infinity. It felt massive then, a beacon for our niche community. And look at it now! Effortlessly, magnificently, filling out all of the GWCC – the Georgia World Congress Center – a sprawling, vibrant city within a city, testament to its explosive popularity and enduring appeal.

Every single year, Momocon manages to be exceptional, but this year, 2025, it genuinely felt like a little extra special. There was a sense of shared history, collective joy, and profound accomplishment hanging in the air.

And speaking of accomplishment, a massive, heartfelt special shout out to all the volunteers and staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. They are the unsung heroes, the backbone of this colossal event, laboring relentlessly to keep the event safe and flowing well. From directing thousands of attendees with a smile, to ensuring every panel starts on time, to maintaining order amidst the beautiful chaos, their dedication is simply monumental. Your efforts are absolutely not in vain, and it is unequivocally true that we wouldn't get to enjoy the event like we do without you. From the bottom of our cosplaying, gaming, anime-loving hearts, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!

Well, Momocon 2025 was an incredible convention year, a perfect blend of past memories and future promise. The bar has been set incredibly high once again. I literally can't wait to see what happens in 2026! The anticipation is already building! #ashsaidit