#rebecca mader convention panel

[efnewsservice]

March 18, 2018

Lana Parrilla and Rebecca Mader Gold Panel - Creation Vancouver 2018

[regalbeliever]

Dragon Con Aug 31-Sept 01: Sunday Panel (Credit to @saxgoddess25)

[bonjovishipper]

LOVE THEM.

[theonceoverthinker]

OUAT NJ: BEST WEEKEND EVER

Okay, so last year, I made a big post detailing the entire event and whileI might do something akin to that later, seeing as how I posted so many of my questions (You can find them under my ouatnj tag) and answers already and I’m between feeling like I’m gonna pass out from exhaustion and feeling like i want to bounce off the walls, I thought I’d just write down some highlights of my trip:

1. Meeting My Internet Friends!

After MONTHS and sometimes YEARS of following so many people, I finally got to! @the-girl-in-the-band-tshirt, @queen-mabs-revenge, @thesschesthair, @lillpon, @fraddit, @justmilah, @coaldustcanary, and @freifraufischer were just a few of the ones I spent a fair amount of time with! Also, shoutouts to @killianmesmalls, @dani-ellie03, and @captregina who I already knew beforehand AND to @agntreginaskywalker and @reginamotherfuckingmills who were completely new friends (The latter of whom was a fantastic seat mate)! Seriously, it was so fun and relaxing grabbing meals with you, watching episodes and panels together, and of course, swimming in the amazing Marriott pool!

Hanging out with you all was sincerely the best part of the weekend.

...Almost as much as...

2. BEING CALLED COLIN’S FAVORITE!!!!

I SHIT YOU NOT!

COLIN O’FREAKIN DONOGHUE CALLED ME HIS FAVORITE!

This all started with his solo panel, where I asked him about the development of Rumple and Wish Killian’s friendship (Check the 20-minute mark of his panel). That question was made in about ten minutes at the prompting of the lovely @queen-mabs-revenge and it went better than I EVER could’ve hoped! Colin said I “should be on TV” and had me give the question again!

That’s all well and good, but this story has a part 2.

I get on line for the Rose/Colin duo panel and I’m actually the first one to ask a question (See the first question asked here). 

Colin says -- and I quote -- “She’s my favorite. She’s like -- it’s like Michael Parkinson.” After requesting that I ask again (And quite jovially at that!), I ask and he’s just so excited!!!! There’s this look in his eyes and tone of his voice of wonder and Rose says it’s like PHD stuff. 

Look, I don’t mean to brag, but I will take pride in knowing that the effort that I put into making good questions brings Colin and Rose such joy! That feeling can never be taken away from me. It’s what some of their fans would kill for and it was an honor for me to have given them that.

I’ve got a few more, but I don’t want to be obnoxious so here’s more under the cut.

3. Witnessing Lillpon meet Colin for the first time.

@lillpon...that was simply beautiful! <3

4. Getting my Funkos!!!

I love @freifraufischer‘s custom OUAT Funkos and I knew I just HAD to have one! With the promise of free shipping for any NJ con goers, I knew I had to have one. After what I promise was an ARDUOS process of elimination choosing my favorite, I eventually settled on the Storybrooke Killian with the short coat (My favorite Killian). About a week and a half before the con, F3 messages me and says I’m getting ANOTHER Funko for FREE, this time a Season 1 Emma. Needless to say, I was floored with excitement!!!

And just LOOK at them!!!

THEY LOOK AMAZING!!! THEY’RE FLAWLESS! THANK YOU!!! <3 I LOVE THEM SOOOOO MUCH! I PROMISE YOU THAT I’LL TRY TO MAKE YOU SOMETHING EQUALLY AMAZING!

5. More Question Compliments!

Yeah, people apparently LOVED my questions! In addition to getting tons of nice compliments from my fellow con-goers, Rebecca Mader called my question “intelligent and eloquently put” at my photo opp with her and during my M&G with Beverly Elliott, she said I should be a writer! Again, my apologies for the bragging, but this is just too COOL not to tell everyone about! It felt like being a superhero: Question Girl!

6. It Felt Fucking Earned!

I’ve brought up my car accident on my page a fair amount, but the recovery from that was an actual nightmare and now follows me through a fair bit of PTSD. I was off weight bearing for six weeks, lost my job in the process, felt horrible amounts of grief the entire time, and anxiety over potentially missing the con. My recovery was a battle that was met with uncertainty at every turn, and the idea of going to this con kept my spirits and hope alive. So to come here and have the best weekend felt...well, as I said above, it felt earned.

7. Validation

This con really validated my sense of self as an OUAT fan in three ways.

First, it allowed me to explore just what I could do. This con made me feel more courageous. I not only asked questions (Something I did last year), but I talked to all of my internet friends, some of whom I used to be so nervous to approach because I simply felt they were in a higher league than me. But (After some blustering), I found that I did fit in and was able to have conversations with them and even about topics I thought I’d never be able to talk about. As someone who constantly worries over a lot of things (And for good reason), I can’t overestimate what a big step this was for me.

Second, it made me feel smart. I know I bragged a lot before, and I genuinely apologize for it, but I normally don’t get a lot of feedback on the things that I do, so to get such big praise from Colin, Rose, Rebecca, and Beverly put me over the moon. I have such pride and confidence now in my writing abilities and my thought processes.

Third, I want to be real with you. Sometimes, I question if I belong in this fandom. I came in on the later side, I don’t fully align with any of the major groups, I’m not especially salty, and aren’t usually part of the running jokes and what not. And those things can make you feel like you’re invisible. And despite having actual friends in the fandom, friends I honestly adore and who I am so thankful for every single day, I’d like to befriend more people!

And this weekend really helped like that. As @killianmesmalls pointed out a few days ago, it was like summer camp and left me with a warm feeling. I felt like I belonged and that’s because I did. It was...just utter bliss.

Extra: PHOTOS!!!!

I wanted to show you all my excellent photo opps!

@the-girl-in-the-band-tshirt and I trying to stop a fight between friends and falling even harder for our captains in the process!

Not a photo opp, but when your puppy makes the big screen, it is a moment worthy of being here!

Colin’s hugs are delightful!

My post-M&G selfie with the most lovely woman in all the realms! <3 Fun fact: she gave me some selfie tips because I’m not the most photogenic person! XD

As evidenced by...

Colin tells a dad joke and Rose just...can’t. 

The dad joke since it ended up being too small): When I was in pirate school, I always hated getting my report card. That’s because it always got the same thing every time... Seven Seas! (I actually gave the speech bubble to Rose!)

@fraddit and I stage a mutiny!

Peace may reign over the Mills family, but sibling rivalries never truly end!

So, I was originally gonna do a goofy photo, but I was so caught up with Rebecca’s kind words that I just went for a normal shot. Still, it’s probably one of my favorties of the set.

Thank you for reading this, if you got that far! I’m so sad that the official conventions are ending soon, butI can’t underestimate the fun I had here!!! If you’re going to Burbank, have the best time ever. Talk to people. Ask questions. Make some impulse purchases. Meet that account you’ve been following forever. And keep on smiling the whole way through. <3

[ladysiuanraine]

Actress Rebecca Mader, actor Sean Maguire and actress Lana Parrilla speak onstage at the "Once Upon a Time" panel during Comic-Con International 2015 at the San Diego Convention Center on July 11, 2015 in San Diego, California.

[whimsicallyenchantedrose]

My OUAT Chicago Con Compilation

Okay, so I think I’ve finally gone through all of my notes/videos/audio/photos from last weekend’s OUAT con in Chicago.  I decided to collate everything into one post, so here you go!  Enjoy!

Transcriptions and Recaps:

Gil McKinney (6/9): (x) 

Michael Coleman (6/9): (x) 

Raphael Sbarge (6/9): (x) 

Colin and Lana Panel (6/10): (x) 

Colin O’Donoghue (6/10): (x) 

Lana Parilla (6/10): (x) 

Rebecca Mader, Victoria Smurfit, Jamie Murray (6/11): (x) 

Rebecca Mader: part 1 (6/11): (x) 

Rebecca Mader: part 2 (6/11): (x)  

Karen David (6/11): (x) 

(I missed part of the Karen/Keegan panel and the Emilie panel on Saturday due to autographs/photo ops, and I missed Lee’s panel, Beverley’s panel and Victoria/Jaime’s panel on Sunday afternoon as I had to leave early. As a result, I don’t have transcripts or recaps of those.  Sorry!)

Photos:

Friday: (x) 

My Colin/Lana photo op: (x) 

Saturday, 1: (x) 

Saturday, 2: (x) 

Sunday: (x) 

Videos:

Beverley Elliot: (x) 

Gil McKinney (1): (x) 

Gil McKinny (2): (x) 

Rebecca Mader sings Wicked Always Wins: (x) 

Note:  I had so much fun last weekend!  I’d been a bit hesitant to go to a con for a variety of reasons, but I don’t regret it for a moment.  The cast who attended were entertaining and warm and friendly.  The panels were enjoyable.  The Saturday concert was fun.  I loved getting a chance to meet many of you I’ve only interacted with online (@snowbellewells @spartanguard @ab-normality @honeybadgerhook, @the-savior-swan @demisexualemmaswan @captainswansource @you-broughtmehome @smb814  @romancelvr @totheendoftheworldortime @killians @initiala) [Sorry if I forgot anyone. It’s hard to keep track of people when, before last weekend I really only knew you by your URLs.]  So yeah.  If you ever find yourself in a position to be able to go to a convention, do it!

[1023080197-blog]

OUAT/CE Convention Guidelines/Tips/Advice

Hi, everyone! So, a lot of convention newbies have been asking me for tips, and advice surrounding conventions mostly focused on OUAT cons/Creation Entertainment hosted ones lately and I decided to make an entire post about it to save me time and to help other people who don’t ask or are too shy to! Basically, a Dummies Guide to Conventions. If you have any further questions, please reach out to me! I would love to help you have a better experience! I'm going to go over a couple of different things here, as detailed and thorough as possible, just based on my experiences. I also shared my personal packing list. I hope you find some of this useful/helpful, and if not, I hope I’ve managed to make you smile or even giggle at some points!

1. Scheduling and Preparation:

Firstly, I always compare conventions to concerts. If you've ever been to a concert and/or a meet-n-greet or signing, I like to think cons work similar to that. Mostly because I went to my first convention with no idea of how things worked, and because I've been to so many concerts/signings/m&gs, I was fine. I looked at conventions as if the panels are the concerts and the photo ops and autographs are the m&gs.

You should be following the schedule. Creation usually releases the schedule the Wednesday before the convention, so you'll have several days to figure out what all you're doing. I always, always go over it and plan out what I'm going to do, how much time I'll have in between events and sometimes, if events are overlapping, you have to pick and choose, do one thing one day and another thing on a different day. If you're attending for just one day, sometimes you might just have to go about what you want to do more, find a way to make it all happen without stretching yourself too thin or ask a volunteer or official Creation employee for help. I always create my own schedule at home and make a list and follow it.

2. Be on Time, Be Prepared:

For panels, photo ops and autographs, any event taking place, I always recommend getting there five minutes before hand. I can't tell you how many photo ops I've almost missed out on because I saw the photo op was running until a certain time and decided I'd show up in the middle of it. It does not matter what time it is scheduled to start and end. Sometimes it starts as soon as the celebrity is ready and if there is a line, meaning a matter of a few minutes, it can end earlier in advance, and sometimes it takes forever and goes over time. If you miss it, you miss it, and there's nothing that can be done. I can say off hand, I have nearly missed Colin O’Donoghue’s duo with Chris Gauthier and Sean Maguire’s duo with Rebecca Mader from not being fast enough or waiting until the last minute to get there.

If you have autographs and photo ops at the same time, I always recommend doing the photo op first. Autographs take more time, and you're less likely to miss out on those than what you are with the photo op. If you are unsure, ask a volunteer or Creation employee. If you have autographs that came a part of a package and autographs that didn't, sometimes you need to ask which person you should meet first, and they'll help you and tell you the best thing to do, and they will make sure you get to experience both.

If you are staying in a room at the hotel and need to grab something in between events, always ensure that you have at least fifteen minutes. You need to allow five minutes to get to your room, five minutes to grab what you need, drop stuff off or touch up on something, and five minutes back. If you are hanging out in your room because you have free time, always allow ten minutes to get to where you need to go. I recommend showing up at any of the events five minutes prior, as stated before, to either settle in your seat in the main panel room or to get in line and prepared for your photo-op/autograph. You also need to allow five minutes extra to walk and/or get onto an elevator to get where you need to go. Sometimes hotels and cons are busy, and everyone is trying to get somewhere at once, and you need to wait for a couple of minutes.

If you are carrying around props, autographs, or anything you don't need to have with you the entire day, take your spare time to drop it off in your hotel room or vehicle. I will always double-check my schedule and plan out how much time I'll have in between each activity. Sometimes you need to have certain props for photo ops, and you'll have two panels and three photo ops and one autograph session happening right after the other and won't have the time to run up to your room before that one event. Bring those with you, and when you have a break, take them back up to your room and exchange them with whatever you need for the next chunk of activities. You'd be surprised at how heavy even the smallest thing can feel after you've been carting it around for hours.

I always recommend attending the night before/early check in. That way, you can sleep in longer, you have what you need and won't have to worry about a thing during the actual convention days. I also recommend buying or swapping out any autographs or photo op tickets then and there, so you don't have to worry about it. Sometimes lines are very long the day of, and you just don't have enough time for it. It gets very stressful. If you see any merchandise, you like and really want to have, buy it. You never know if it'll still be available the next time you check. I especially recommend this for any extra photo-ops or autograph tickets, t-shirts, or autograph prints. Also, if there is something you need or want to get your hands on and there is no line, take advantage of that! Lines can go on forever, and you don't want to waste time standing in it then eventually having to leave because there's something else going on that you need/want to attend.

This is also good for exploring the area and learning the wear-abouts. I always use the night before check-in to locate the main convention/panel area, photo op rooms, autograph rooms (if any), VIP lounge if you have that, and M&G room if you have any of those. Know where you need to go and how long it will take you to get there. You cannot risk it. Normally, they will keep everything in one area.

3. Money

Save money! Save lots of it! Conventions are not cheap, especially if you want to have a fantastic experience and a busy schedule! It is possible to have a cheap experience, ex. if you’re only going for one person, but it is tough as hell. Extra money isn't a necessity, but a high recommendation. Bring a good amount of money with you, (cash is the better option just to avoid fees at ATMs). You would be surprised at how much you might grow to like an actor and how much you want to meet them after seeing their panel or them at the Friday Night Karaoke or Saturday Night Concert. Sometimes an actor is attending more than one day, you meet them the first day, and you just have to meet them the other. This happens to me a lot. Make a list of all the possible actors you might want to meet, on what days, and an estimate of the amount of money you'd be spending on them all. This has also helped me greatly.

Make sure you always have your ID with you! Especially if you won an auction, such as a private M&G or VIP. Also if you want to buy admission, extra photo ops or autographs!

Online fees really suck, but you know what sucks more? Missing out on an autograph or photo op with your hero, Lana Parrilla, Colin O’Donoghue, and the once-in-a-lifetime Captain Swan or Outlaw Queen duo because it sold out beforehand. If there is an actor you are just dying to meet, it is better to be safe than sorry. I recommend buying any additional tickets for the ones you want to meet the most, especially if they play a major character/have a huge fanbase/following. For example, Colin O'Donoghue, Lana Parrilla, Jennifer Morrison, Emilie de Ravin, Jared Gilmore and Rebecca Mader. Anyone falling along the lines of Beverley Elliott, Lee Arenberg, Michael Coleman, Gil McKinney, Raphael Sbarge or anyone who portrays a more-minor character or B/C-list, you should be fine holding off until the convention. When a photo op or autograph is listed as sold out, they aren't very likely to add any more.

4. Taking Care of Yourself/Health

Conventions run all day, and there is almost never a break in between activities. Make sure you force yourself to eat and drink. Eat a lot at breakfast and at dinner, because the days and nights are so jam packed, you are never bored, and you most likely won't have any time for lunch or a late night snack before bed. If you're starving because you didn't eat or weren't hungry, it won't be fun because it might be awhile until you'd have the time to eat something filling.

I say this because one time I came close enough to passing out at a Taylor Swift concert because I didn't eat a thing and it scarred me. I don't want to have a repeat of that, and no one should come to the point of losing their sight and half of their hearing because they are depriving themselves of food and water. Especially at a convention.

I understand the nervous butterflies of meeting your favorite actor and your excitement for the day, but the risk just is not worth it! You do not want to pass out before you get the chance to hug Colin O'Donoghue and find out why Michael Coleman calls him Captain Sexy Irish Eyes! Even if you don't want to eat or aren't hungry, try to get something in your system. If you can, bring snacks and a drink with you to have throughout the day, they allow them, and they always have complimentary water on hand.

Please try to get as much sleep as possible. I know better than anyone that the OUAT conventions can run from nine am to midnight and it'll be a bit before you get settled into bed and have to get up at five am the next morning.

Remember to shower every day. You have no idea what kind of germs are on you and need to be scrubbed off. Not to mention, you are around strangers and actors, and the last thing I'm sure any actor or stranger wants is for you to touch them when you haven't showered in days. You would feel the same exact way towards them. 

And lets be real, you want nothing more than for Colin O’Donoghue to think your hair is shinier than the look in King Arthur’s eye whenever he touches Excalibur. Not to mention, you want him to think that you smell like the fresh scent of a springtime meadow just after the flowers have bloomed. Hygiene is very important!

Remember to brush your teeth and to check them after you eat! The last thing you want Lana Parrilla to smell is bad breath or that tuna sandwich you had for lunch. You don't want Jennifer Morrison to see kale stuck in your teeth, either! Gum and breath mints are your friend!

5. Staying at the Hotel

This is something I highly recommend, no matter where you live. It is so helpful to be able to have a room right there in the same building or a place you can go to touch up on your hair and make-up, drop things off, pick things up, quick changing, and taking a quick bite of food or a drink. I understand how expensive these hotels are, they are pricey and five star fancy and that's because no one would host a convention inside of a lower-graded hotel.

I always recommend using the Creation discount and booking the room right off the bat. You can get a room for lower than 150 a night, versus normal asking price, which could be several hundred. Either that or I'll go through Hotels.com which will be around the same price or a few dollars more and I might even get a free night! It is not a necessity, but it sure is helpful!

This could go into the packing section, as well, but I'm going to say it here. I recommend bringing a couple of different outfits with you, between tank-tops, short sleeved shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, pants, skirts, and shorts. Just make sure you have a variety of options. Sometimes it gets super hot at conventions. For example, I cosplayed Emma Swan at OUATNJ last year, and I was sweating to death in my leather jacket and my boots and had to change because I was uncomfortable and I did not want to hug any actors while drenched in my sweat. Sometimes you're cold. When I attended Denver, they had it so cold inside of the hotel; I was shivering and shaking throughout the entire day, and eventually had to run and grab my sweater for autographs because I couldn't even stand it anymore.

Sometimes you just need more choices because you decide last minute that you want to wear something else and you don't want to wear what you originally planned on anymore. Sometimes you want to cosplay, then you get to the con and just aren't into it, or you decide last minute that you do want to. You just might want to wear a couple of different things as well and have quick changes for individual photo ops. You don't have to go excessive with extra clothes, but I did have at least two outfit backups, and I ended up going with different than originally planned at both OUATNJ and OUATDEN.

Make sure your suitcase isn't super full because you might want to buy something! Either that or it is possible to win a free merchandise certificate. I won a $200.00 certificate at Denver and brought home ten shirts!

6. Panels

Basically how the panels work, is you'll find your seat or find something available in the General Admission area, I do recommend showing up an extra five minutes early to find a seat in that case.

If you have any questions, you are more than welcome to go up to the microphone on either side of the stage and/or get in line and ask them. People usually only ask one question and I, along with everyone else, ask that you try to keep it that way, so everyone gets a chance to ask their question. If you have any more questions, you can get back in line or ask the actor during a signing, M&G or photo op. Con attendees, volunteers, employees and actors also prefer that you refrain from just complimenting the actor or sharing a personal story. Please save that for a semi-private moment between you and the actor. Ask them a question!

You do not have to stay for any panels you don't want to. It is usually a full house for super popular actors like Colin, Jennifer, and Lana. Also Rebecca and Emilie. People will sometimes line up for questions before their panels even start! 

I personally hate walking out as a panel is starting because of disliking a certain fandom, actor, character or leaving in the middle of one to get to another event. I’ll always pick and choose and leave immediately after the one to avoid being a distraction or just not go. I just feel as though I’m drawing attention to myself by getting up in the middle of the room and walking out or being disrespectful and I feel very self-consious. I also feel terrible if I have to block someone’s view or disturb them by trying to get past. However, I don’t mind arriving a little late to a panel. This is a personal choice/preference and opinion, it is not something you have to do.

7. Photo Ops

First thing is first, as soon as you come into the room, they will ask you to place your bags or anything extra you have onto one of their tables. Sometimes you might need to hold off until there is an empty space, depending on how many people are allowed in the room and how much stuff they have with them. They will ask you to put away your phone or sometimes they will allow you to keep it in your pocket, as long as you don't touch it. If you have a badge or anything, I recommend taking it off for the photo.

As far as photo ops, those goes by really fast. You have enough time to ask or explain a pose to whoever or say something fast like, "Hey, I love you," or this and that. If you take too long, they'll step in and ask you to speed it up, and that can be kind of embarrassing, especially if the celebrity is telling you to, which doesn't happen very often. If you want a conversation, your best bet is getting their autograph. However, if you get a photo op with a minor actor, they'll give you more time to talk or do whatever with them, depending on how many tickets are sold and how long their photo op is scheduled to last.

However, sometimes, if the actor talks to you, whoever is running the photo op won't say anything to them and rush you. I talked to Beverley Elliott, Lee Arenberg, Karen David and Raphael Sbarge for a minute or two at their photo ops before!

If you are talking to an actor and they're genuinely listening or talking to you, the volunteers/employees won't rush you, but they might step in if you two are taking too long. Just focus on the actor. If anyone gets mean, it's likely the actor will give them a look or tell them off.

From my own personal experience and stories I heard, I know Colin O'Donoghue, and Sean Maguire will hug just about every single fan they meet. They will talk with them, and they don't give a damn about what anyone says to them about it, even if the staff are pissed at them. Especially if that fan is physically upset over meeting them.

If you are nervous, I think it really helps to stare at the celebrity and grow used to their presence, if you refuse to, when you finally go up to them, it can get a bit rocky/messy/emotional versus run smoothly. Go over what you want to say to them or your pose idea several times in your head as you wait and watch them interact with others.

Learn how they act with other fans and study their body language and movements. Are they more reserved and collected, do they seem a bit particular when it comes to PDA, (but still kind, nonetheless), like Emilie de Ravin and Jennifer Morrison? Are they quiet and shy and blushing a lot, yet kind and willing, like Colin O'Donoghue? Are they loud and rambunctious and talkative and willing to do absolutely anything with fans, like Rebecca Mader and Lana Parrilla?

Another thing to remember is, even if they say no poses, just ask the celebrity anyway and don't listen to the volunteers or staff unless they give a legitimate excuse. For example, Emilie de Ravin, Robbie Kay, and Jennifer Morrison aren't big on poses and/or PDA or are just very shy. Some just don't like to do them and that’s okay! They should never feel pressured or as though they have to give up their comfort for your satisfaction. If this is the reason, sometimes it's best to just listen to the staff, or you can go out on a limb and ask anyway. I've come to find, usually, the actors will say yes. They are actors, they are fantastic about snapping into character, and some of them just love poses and prefer to do them! The way I see it, you are paying good money for this photo, you deserve to have exactly what you want, and you should do something fun besides just standing there, unless it’s what you prefer.

For example, Robbie Kay said no poses but was fine with hugging, Emilie de Ravin said the same thing, but she was fine with hugging above the waist. I also have an experience where I was told no poses and asked Emilie to dangle the Rumbelle teacup as if she was going to drop it. Someone came up and said no poses, Emilie gave them a defiant look, then smiled at me and did it anyway. For another example, I wasn't sure whether or not Greg Germann and Rebecca Mader would wear my Disney Mouse ears, but I asked, and they did anyway!

Keep in mind there is a possibility of them turning you down; however, they won't be mean to you. For example, Greg Germann said to my mom and I that he would not be comfortable with making finger guns, but he was very kind about it and suggested something different. They love their fans, and they're here to meet you and accommodate you, especially because you paid money to have this special moment with them. The last thing they want to do is disappoint you or hurt you, but you need to meet them in the middle as well.

Keep in mind that just because you are paying money and they are famous, does not mean that is a free pass to do whatever you want or touch them without permission. Always ask before you hug them, or touch them in any way. You might know them and/or their career well but you are a stranger to that actor, and it won't be any different to them than if a stranger came up to you on the street and just grabbed you. Be considerate, be respectful. You need to think of them as much as yourself. Do not ask for any kisses or for them to pick you up or the other way around, unless the actor suggests it themselves, of course. Someone could get sick or hurt.

With that said, if you have a complex pose idea that you might find trouble in explaining or you might get too warped up in your nervousness and excitement of seeing that actor, do print out a picture and bring it. They're trained professionals, they'll know what to do and will snap right into it. The convention does ask that it's nothing that could make a mess or that involves getting on the floor, due to time limits, and those wishes should be respected. Do not bring your phone in with the hopes of showing the celebrity that way. I've witnessed one person try to do that for a photo op and they said no, but they let them explain their pose idea to the actor rather thoroughly to make up for it.

As far as duo photo ops go, those go by quickly, faster than solo photo ops, which might be hard to believe. It's just so hard to greet two actors at once and sometimes you only have time to explain a pose or pop right in between the two or more. It takes more time to interact with two or more actors than what it does with one, especially if more than one fan is coming into the photo. However, there is a plus. If that actor is friends with the other, their presence might be calming to the other, and that one actor might be more opt for something fun and out of their comfort zone!

The most important thing you have to remember, whether you're shy, nervous or scared, that celebrities are just people like you and they're probably as nervous as you are! Colin O’Donoghue is fifty times as nervous to meet you than what you are with him. Trust me. I’ve heard him stress this many times to myself and to others. With that being said, anything you want to say to them or tell them, just do it, because they will listen and you will regret it if you don't. If you leave an impact, they are more likely to warm up to you throughout the convention or remember you! This is always a goal of mine, while staying genuine.

8. Autographs

When it comes to autographs, they almost always happen in the auditorium and at the end of the day. The one autograph session I attended that did not happen at the end was Colin O'Donoghue's, but that is only because he had a plane he had to catch earlier than usual, so his schedule was different than everyone else’s. Anyway, they will call you by row or by ticket number for you to get your autograph. It will be a much longer waiting process than a photo op. However, this is a good thing. It means the cast is taking their time with their fans. You should never take a long wait for granted because you will get the same treatment and it is SO worth it. 

If there is any cast member you really like, I would highly recommend getting their autograph because it gives you the time to talk to them and have a decent conversation. My autograph experiences are always better than my photo op ones. I prefer to get autographs for my favorites solely because I can talk to them. However, the only downfall is that you can't get or take any pictures at autographs. So when you get both, you have the best of both worlds.

If you're getting an autograph with someone you didn't get a picture with, usually in the case of complimentary, I recommend printing out a picture of them at home with photo paper. It might save you money because they'll charge $6 for prints at the convention, on top of the autograph price. Those will sell out fast, so it won't be fun if you decide last minute to get an autograph. You have to have something for them to sign on hand or you have to buy something, nothing is given to you.

I also recommend having a backup of something for an actor to sign just in the case of the photo op not being printed out on time/missing the photo op. If you got a photo op with them and you think it turned out so bad you would be embarrassed if they saw it, the backups will come in handy, that has happened to me on several occasions.

I think this covers the majority of questions I have been asked over the years. I also recommend googling things to pack and things to expect at cons or little con hacks. Look at several sources and articles; everyone has their own original and very handy piece of advice to offer. Do research! Remember above all to be kind and courteous to everyone. Do not rag on any actors or fans publically where anyone can hear you, especially a fan or actor attending that very convention. Do not put an actor in a horrible or awkward position or ask them anything too personal or considerably redundant or offensive. The most important rule is to treat everyone as you want to be treated, stay in your lane (mind your business), and you will have a wonderful time!

Bonus: 9. My Personal Packing List for OUATDEN

I hope this will be of some use to anyone or might give some good ideas!

Important 

Plane Tickets

Convention Tickets

Money (Food / Spending / Transit / Hotel Deposit)

Photo ID

Credit Card

Phone 

Phone Charger

Travel Chargers and Charger Charging Accessories

Laptop

Laptop Charger

iPad

iPad charger

Headphones

Purse / Backpack / Carrying Bag / Satchel

First Aid/Health

Vitamins 

Advil 

Kleenex / Tissues (you will most likely cry)

Feminine Supplies (Mooncup/Pads/Tampons)

Eyewear

Glasses

Glasses Case

Eye Drops

Contacts

Contact Case

Contact Cleaning Solution

Sunglasses

Clothes

Long-Sleeve/ Short-Sleeve Shirts

Pants / Shorts / Skirts

Hoodie/Sweater

A Few Pairs of Pajamas

One Pair of Lingerie for Each Day + Three Additional Pairs

One Pair of Socks for Each Day + Three Additional Pairs

Tights

Two Belts

Shoes

Jewelry

Lint Roller

Bag for Dirty Clothes

(Side note, always pick out your outfits and try them on before traveling to make sure you like them! From the undergarments all the way to the jewelry/belt.)

Hygiene

Toothbrush

Toothpaste

Bodywash

Shampoo

Conditioner

Perfume

Face Wash

Gum/Breathmints

Deodorant 

Razor + Replacement Blades

Makeup & Hair (etc)

Makeup (insert thorough/product list here)

Makeup Remover

Mirrors

Makeup Brushes

Hair Brush / Comb

Nail Clippers

Tweezers

Hair Curler 

Straightener

Hairspray

Nail Polish + Remover

Cotton Balls 

Cotton Swabs

Bobby Pins / Hair Pins / Hair Clips

Tape

False Eyelashes + Glue

Other

Photo Book to Keep Photo Ops and Dried Autographs Safe

Books for Plane

Fun Lanyards of Your Favorite Characters and Show Props (To replace that plain black one they give you!)

Photo-Op Props (ex. Captain Hook's hook, Beer glasses, Henry's book)

Items You Want Autographed. (ex. Hook, Regina, Belle and Zelena funko pops, photo ops from your last convention, OUAT poster, Autograph book)

[theultimatefan]

'Taxi,' 'Who's The Boss' Star Tony Danza To Attend Wizard World Philadelphia, Saturday, June 15

One of America's most iconic and beloved performers for more than 40 years, Tony Danza will make his first Wizard World appearance on Saturday, June 15, at Wizard World Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Center City Philadelphia. Perhaps best known for his starring roles in "Taxi" (1978-83) and "Who's the Boss" (1984-92), Danza will greet fans, sign autographs, pose for photo ops and conduct an interactive Q&A panel during the event.

In addition, several other stars have been added to the roster, including Cary Elwes (The Princess Bride), Dean Cain ("Lois & Clark"), John Glover ("Smallville"), George Wendt ("Cheers"), Edward Furlong (Terminator 2: Judgement Day), and wrestling legends Sgt. Slaughter, Lisa Marie Varon, Hacksaw Jim Duggan and Devon Dudley. The 19th annual Wizard World Philadelphia will be held June 13-16.

Tony most recently starred in the Netflix original series, "The Good Cop," along with Josh Groban. An established song and dance man, Danza and his four-piece band regularly entertain audiences around the country with their hit live show, Tony Danza: Standards & Stories. Among his many film credits are Angels In The Outfield, She’s Out of Control, Hollywood Knights, Don Jon, Crash and A Brooklyn State of Mind.

On Broadway, Danza most recently received rave reviews for his performance in the critically acclaimed Broadway musical comedy, “Honeymoon In Vegas.”

Among Danza's previous television credits is “There’s Johnny” (2017), which is currently streaming on Hulu, CBS’ dramatic series “Family Law” (2000–2002), his Emmy-nominated performance on David E. Kelley’s award-winning series “The Practice” (1998), and ABC’s “The Tony Danza Show,” a talk show that was broadcast live in New York from 2004–2006.  

Danza and the others join a standout celebrity lineup at Wizard World Philadelphia that includes Ted Danson (“Cheers,” Three Men and a Baby), “Once Upon a Time” stars Lana Parrilla, Rebecca Mader and Jared Gilmore, “The Vampire Diaries” headliner Ian Somerhalder and the “Supergirl” tandem of Mehcad Brooks and Jeremy Jordan.

Wizard World events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, television, gaming, live entertainment, comics, sci-fi, graphic novels, toys, original art, collectibles, contests and more. The seventh event scheduled on the 2019 Wizard World calendar, Philadelphia show hours are Thursday, June 13, 4-9 p.m.; Friday, June 14, noon-7 p.m.; Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, June 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Kids 10 and under are admitted free with paid adult.

Wizard World Philadelphia is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed – will roam the convention floor and participate in the famed Wizard World Costume Contest on Saturday evening.

For more on the 2019 Wizard World Philadelphia, visit http://wizd.me/PhiladelphiaPR.

About Wizard Entertainment, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD)

Wizard Entertainment, Inc. (www.wizardworld.com) produces comic, gaming and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, television, gaming, live entertainment, tech, comics, sci-fi, graphic novels, toys, original art, collectibles, contests and more. A first-class lineup of topical programming and entertainment takes place at each event, with celebrity Q&A's, comics-themed sessions, costume contests, movie screenings, evening parties and more. Wizard Entertainment has also teamed with Sony Pictures Entertainment to find the next generation of movies as well as to engage in a number of strategic initiatives. Additional initiatives may include an augmented touring schedule of Wizard World shows, fixed-site installations, curated e-commerce, and the production and distribution of content both in the U.S. and internationally. Fans can interact with Wizard Entertainment at www.wizardworld.com and on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and other social media services.

The 2019 Wizard World convention schedule is available at: http://www.wizardworld.com/comiccon.

[smb814]

I’m home!  Physically, anyway, although mentally it will still take a few more days to readjust to work and everything else. And since I’ve been absent from Tumblr since last Thursday, it will undoubtedly take me quite a few days to get caught up with everything. So if you see bouts of weird and random stuff and extensive post spamming from me for the next few days, just rest assured this is only temporary until I catch up.

Had an absolute BLAST at the Chicago OUAT convention this weekend. It was SO MUCH FUN, which is why I already bit the bullet and signed up again for next year’s convention. Awesome guests and panels, awesome music (lots and lots and lots of singing at this convention – Karen David singing a Galavant song at the concert and Rebecca Mader starting off her panel with her entire song from the musical ep were definite highlights for me), and I enjoyed every single second of hanging out with @romancelvr between panels and autographs and photo ops. It’s been a long time since I’ve had that much fun – I’ve really missed going to conventions, getting to talk to so many other fans, and bonding over shared passions! There’s such an amazing energy that comes with being at a fan convention, and this one was no exception.

And a special shout out to the ladies who attended the CS meet up on Friday night: @ab-normality @honeybadgerhook @the-savior-swan @demisexualemmaswan @captainswansource @you-broughtmehome @smb814 @whimsicallyenchantedrose @romancelvr @totheendoftheworldortime @killians. It was wonderful getting to know you guys and to chat with you about OUAT and CS! I hope you all had/have safe trips home and that you’re able to come back to Chicago next year so we can meet up again! 

I have no idea yet if I’ll be sharing my pictures from the weekend – I haven’t looked through them all yet to see if they turned out okay – but hopefully I’ll have a few that are post-worthy. I was in fourth row middle so they might be fine…or they might be blocked by the heads of the people directly in front of me. (And seriously, did Colin and Lana both have to wear light color shirts? That did NOT help with taking decent pictures, especially with the not-so-great lighting and dark backdrop – I was constantly futzing with the brightness of my phone camera trying to keep my pictures from being washed out.) If they’re not that great, though, I’ll just reblog pictures other people took, so for those of you who don’t follow me for Once, make sure you blacklist “Once Upon a Time” or “ouatchi” or “ouat chicago con 2017” to keep all the madness off your dash.

I hope everyone else who went to the convention had as great of a time this weekend as I did!

[marinelevel]

Convention – Enchanted 15 au 17 Juin 2018 / Hilton Birmingham Organisée par Starfury Conventions

Hello à tous ! Me voici aujourd’hui avec ma chronique sur la convention Enchanted où j’ai eu la chance d’aller en Juin dernier. Ce n’était pas vraiment prévu dans mon programme mais deux de mes amies m’ont fait la surprise de m’offrir un pass c’est donc avec plaisir que j’ai pu me rendre à Birmingham pour rencontrer des acteurs d’une série que j’aime énormément ! Ce n’était pas ma première convention avec Starfury, je savais où je mettais les pieds après 3 Highlanders… et je connaissais l’hôtel de la convention Sherlock.

Les invités : Adelaïde Kane (Javotte), Giles Matthew (Gideon), Jaime Murray (la Fée Noire), Jared S. Gilmore (Henry), Kristin Bauer (Maléfique), Lana Parrilla (Evil Queen/Regina), Rebecca Mader (Wicked Witch/Zelena), Sean Maguire (Robin des Bois), et Victoria Smurfit (Cruella).

J’aime beaucoup les conventions de chez Starfury. Sean, l’organisateur, cherche toujours à avoir des guestlists différentes et variées. Pour une première convention OUAT, un beau casting était au rendez vous, déjà rencontré pour la plupart, et qui se déroulait après la fin de la série… avec donc un goût différent. Cela fait un moment que la série n’a plus le même attrait qu’avant, même si j’aime toujours les acteurs, ca n’a plus le même goût.. cette convention a été l’opportunité pour moi de profiter au maximum de l’ambiance et de mes amies présentes plus que des acteurs. J’ai vécu un super weekend, on s’est éclatées !!!

Pour ma part niveau extras, je n’avais pas grand chose, les autographes compris dans mon pass, et j’avais acheté 4 photos. Une avec Adélaïde et une avec Jared. Adélaïde que je n’avais jamais rencontré encore, et Jared avec qui je n’avais pas craqué lors de la THEC au vu de son prix. Une avec Giles, car j’avais vraiment eu un coup de coeur pour lui et qu’il est juste adorable. Et une trio Queens of Darkness (qui s’est transformé en duo suite à l’annulation de Merrin) que j’ai partagé avec Shanna.

L’hôtel est top. Situé à quelques pas de l’aéroport et la gare, il est facile d’accès.  J’aime surtout les stands de street food qui sont dans le hall qui permettent de bien manger pour pas cher (10£ le menu plat-boisson-dessert) avec des menus qui changent à chaque service et avec version végé. Les chambres sont dignes d’un Hilton. Attention néanmoins, dans les espaces de convention il y a la clim et on a vite très froid. J’ai pu le constater à chaque convention là bas.

De fa��on générale, l’organisation me convient. On était beaucoup, on avait quand même le temps de parler aux acteurs comparé à d’autres conventions. On fait beaucoup de queues, ca peut en déranger certains, mais c’est là où j’ai le plus discuté avec mes amies, et j’y ai même fait de nouvelles rencontres ! Comme quoi ! La chose qui peut déranger et dont mon amie Shanna m’a fait penser avec sa dernière conv, un peu plus d’intimité peut rassurer pas mal de gens, car ici littéralement toute la file vous regarde. Ca ne dérange pas personnellement, mais je sais que certains peuvent se sentir mal à l’aise.

  C’est l’une des rares conventions où j’ai pu voir des guests absolument détendus. On a eu des panels hilarants, avec des guests heureux d’être là, pas poussés au cul ni stressés. Ca a un ressenti direct sur les participants ! Rien que le panel Lana/Bex était super drôle, les voir rire, jouer sur scène faisait beaucoup de bien, quand on a l’habitude de voir des panels de Lana seule. Hors guests les plus demandés, on avait vraiment la possibilité de les approcher et d’avoir un peu de temps avec eux, ce qui n’est pas négligeable ! Comme il y a pu avoir des panels gênants… la guerre des ships chez OUAT est vraiment lassante, et Lana en a fait les frais.

Je parlerai davantage de la soirée du samedi soir qui aura été la cerise sur le gâteau de l’événement. Bonne musique, entourée d’amies, on se fait vraiment plaisir et on ne pense à rien ! J’ai vraiment adoré ! Au niveau des guests rencontrés, des amours, aucun souci, de beaux moments de partage lors des autographes, et pour les photos également. J’ai été plus que ravie de ma rencontre avec Adélaïde dont j’avais aimé le rôle, et elle a été souriante et avenante. Je soulignerai surtout ma photo avec Giles, ma seule photo du dimanche matin, et nous avions, lui comme moi, bien profité de la soirée et bu un peu, ce qui je pense, devait se lire sur nos visages.. en tout cas, en se regardant on a eu beaucoup de mal à garder notre calme ! J’ai pu faire signer les supports que je voulais, je n’ai eu aucun problème.

Je tiens encore à remercier Starfury pour ce bel événement, qui aura été (surement) pour moi, ma dernière convention Once Upon a Time. Un weekend rempli de belles rencontres, de bons moments avec les guests, et surtout un excellent moment de joie et de bonheur avec mes amies/rencontres que j’ai pu faire tout le long des différentes conventions.

Ma chronique de la convention OUAT de chez @starfuryevents :: Enchanted ! Convention - Enchanted 15 au 17 Juin 2018 / Hilton Birmingham Organisée par Starfury Conventions

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June 2, 2018

Creation Orlando 2018 Rebecca Mader sings Wicked Always Wins

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March 18, 2018

Rebecca Mader Main Panel - Creation Vancouver 2018

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June 2018

Creation Orlando 2018 Rebecca Mader panel

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August 20, 2017

Creation San Francisco 2017 Parrilla and Mader gold panel 

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August 20, 2017

Creation San Francisco 2017 Rebecca Mader panel

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June 11, 2017

Creation Chicago 2017 - Mader, Smurfit, Murray Gold panel part 1 (part 2, part 3)