| Don't Be Afraid of Costume Possibilities |
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Don't Be Afraid of Costume Possibilities Slapping on a pair of cat ears doesn't quite qualify as a Halloween costume. Learn how a local theatrical supply shop can help you pick the perfect outfit for your next costume party. 
Dressing up — we love it. Whether it's a full-length gown for a charity ball or a Wonder Woman outfit for Halloween, any time is a good time to express yourself through fashion. But for this season's costumed festivities the majority of items are being sold in mass quantities from little clear plastic bags. For those not afraid to get creative, it is good to know there is a local shop ready and willing to really spend time with customers to create unique and memorable ensembles.
Schenz Theatrical Supply, established in 1967, will get your creative juices flowing as soon as you lay eyes on the building's wacky exterior that happens to be painted bright purple with a giant black gorilla display looming over the front entrance. Inside, you'll find racks upon racks that hold thousands of costumes just waiting to be rented and worn. Depending on how much time is available, the staff at Schenz Theatrical Supply will spend about an hour with each customer, picking through costumes and accessories, finding the perfect combination for any occasion.
"It all depends on: What kind of party are they going to? A house party, a bar party? What are they going to be comfortable in and look good in?" Founder and President Jonn Schenz says. "There are some people who are comfortable in something skimpy. There are some people who want their bodies covered completely. There are some who want something very elegant." And Schenz has something for everyone. Most garments can be rented for about $40 to $50 but more elaborate rentals can go as high as $150.
Schenz Theatrical Supply is a Cincinnati favorite, but only 20 percent of their business is based out of the Queen City because they ship costumes all over the country and the world. "We sent a whole shipment of hamburger costumes into Kuwait!" Schenz says. But perhaps the most impressive of Schenz's clients is the White House. This past April marked the 29th year that Schenz has provided the official White House Easter Bunny costumes and it's not who you might think inside those costumes.
Generals, cabinet members, executives and many other White House staff members have donned the bunny suit over the years. Schenz remembers fondly when Ursula, the wife of Attorney General Edwin Meese, wore the bunny suit in the late 1980s. Schenz overheard Barbara Bush ask Meese, "Why do you wear that every year?" to which Meese replied, "Because I get a year's worth of hugs in one day!"
For more information check out Schenz Theatrical Supply online at Schenz.com, call (513) 542-6100 or visit the store at 2959 Colerain Avenue down the street from the University of Cincinnati.
Hot Costumes for Halloween 2009
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View all articles by this author Last update: 26-10-2009 09:30
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