MT LAUREL, NJ (April 17, 2024) - The Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) is thrilled to announce the launch of the first annual Spooky awards, an industry celebration of innovation, creativity, and all things Halloween! Open to Halloween product manufacturers, HCA members, and non-members alike, this thrilling event promises to be the pinnacle of the Halloween calendar.

Steeped in the mystique of the season, the competition beckons to daring souls who weave new wonders. Eligible submissions include only fresh apparitions, newly conjured within the past year or set to materialize in the next ten moons. While prototypes are welcome, beware—prior incarnations haunting the market do not qualify. Only the freshest, most fiendish creations may ascend.

To join the prestigious ranks of the HCA Industry Awards, entrants need only complete the official entry form online by July 1, 2024. HCA members enjoy the ghostly advantage of a first submission FREE, with subsequent entries haunting the realm at $50 each. Non-members may partake in the spectral revelry for $100 per entry. The submission fee is non-refundable, so participants are advised to choose their potions wisely.

Each creation will undergo the discerning scrutiny of a panel of industry representatives and will be evaluated against a cauldron-full of criteria including Innovation, Marketability, Trendsetting Potential, Appeal, and Usefulness.

The spirits of the judging panel will select the most enchanting entries in each category as finalists, who will be announced on or around October 1, 2024. Finalists will receive an official HCA Industry Awards logo to flaunt their accomplishments. Winners will be revealed during the Halloween & Party Expo in January in beautiful Las Vegas.

Product Categories Unveiled:

Accessories (Wigs, Shoes, Hats, etc.)

Costume Category:

• Adult
• Child
• Licensed
• Most Unique
• Non-Character (Non-Human, Inanimate Object)
• Scary/Horror
  

Décor (Electronic, Inflatable, Lawn, etc.)

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Best Application of Environmental Social Governance)

Makeup Category:

• Character
• 3D
• Scary/Horror

Masks

Most Innovative (Open to all categories)

Packaging

Sustainability

For more information email info@halloweencostumeassociation.org or call 856.380.6942. 

For media inquiries, please contact Aneisha McMillan amcmillan@hiaonline.org 910.849.9003

Wolfe Face Art & FX is a make-up design company best known for its unique products and cutting-edge make-up application techniques. Wolfe has truly revolutionized the industry by combining traditional theater make-up and fast-paced face painting into a totally new type of face and body art.

Why are their products so successful? - Because Wolfe employs some of the finest artists in the industry. Their products are designed by artists for artists and for anyone wishing to expand their creativity. Their world-renowned highly-pigmented Hydrocolor line of professional water-activated make-up has the best coverage in the industry.

They also carry a wide range of face painting products from glitter, to sponges, to Step-By-Step books. Their easy-to-use novelty face painting and temporary tattoo products are sure to make even the novice create amazing face paints and memorable occasions. Wolfe would like to also introduce their newest product line, Pumpkin Decor!

Wisdom USA stands as a prominent wholesale luggage manufacturer, offering an extensive array of high-quality products to retailers and distributors nationwide. Committed to excellence, the company collaborates with seasoned designers and manufacturers to craft durable, functional, and fashionable luggage items. With a diverse range including suitcases, backpacks, duffel bags, and carry-ons, they cater to various needs and preferences, offering customization options for branding.

The company's dedication to client success is evident through its competitive pricing, exceptional customer service, and timely deliveries. Recognizing the symbiotic relationship between client and provider, Wisdom USA aims to empower businesses by providing them with top-tier products and support. As a leading supplier of luggage, backpacks, duffel bags, and other travel essentials, they ensure quality through close collaboration with manufacturing partners, offering retailers and e-commerce platforms the perfect blend of affordability and reliability.

Wisdom USA's offerings extend beyond luggage, encompassing reusable shopping bags, lunch boxes, and customized services to meet diverse customer demands. Whether clients seek eco-friendly options like biodegradable bags or stylish totes for everyday use, the company delivers with a commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. With an emphasis on customization, they cater to individual preferences, ensuring each product aligns with clients' unique requirements and branding strategies.

By embracing innovation, collaboration, and customer-centric values, Wisdom USA solidifies its position as a trusted partner in the retail and distribution sectors. Their comprehensive range of products, coupled with personalized services, underscores a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and client success. Whether in need of durable luggage for travel, stylish bags for daily use, or eco-conscious shopping solutions, clients can rely on Wisdom USA for premium quality and unparalleled support.

Are you looking for the latest and greatest Halloween, Party and Celebration products?

MT. LAUREL, NJ (Oct 30, 2023) As the highly anticipated celebration draws near, the Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) has conjured up the official safety guidelines for 2023 just in time. As the nation readies itself for the beloved holiday of Millennials and Gen Z, a whopping 73% of all Americans are set to partake in the festivities. And fret not, for the HCA has brewed up a few tips to ensure everyone's safety.

"Statistically speaking, parents often overlook some crucial opportunities to ensure the safety of their little trick or treaters. With Halloween spirits soaring high this week, we're urging everyone to weave safety into the very fabric of tomorrow’s festivities," declared Gregor Lawson, Chairman of the Halloween & Costume Association, and co-founder of MorphCostumes.

The HCA's safety spells are crafted to ward off accidents and mishaps on what is currently known as the deadliest night of the year. With more than 60% of all accidents occurring between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm, parents are encouraged to discuss Halloween safety AND accompany children while embarking on the candy quest. The HCA’s 10-point Safety List includes the following tips:

10: Lighten up. 63% of children don’t carry a flashlight while they’re trick or treating. Grab a clip-on light if they don’t want to carry one!

9: Tag along. 70% of parents don’t accompany their children trick or treating. You’re never too old to trick-or-treat! Grab a costume, enjoy some family bonding, and be sure to claim your treat tax!

8: Talk about it. 65% of parents don’t discuss Halloween safety with their children. Talk with your kids and offer ways to ensure a fun and safe experience.

7: Avoid flames. Halloween is a holiday with hidden and uncommon fire dangers. Avoid open flames, use battery operated lights instead!

6: Drive safe. Stay alert and slow down for our trick or treaters and costumed characters. Pay extra attention to kids crossing in the middle of the block.

5: Tighten up. Make sure your fit is just right! Avoid costumes that drag and oversized masks.

4: Walk safe. Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween. Discuss safety, pre-plan a route, stay on sidewalks and use crosswalks.

3: Leash up. Keep your costumed critters on a leash or left safely inside. Tags and microchips can help avoid lost loved ones.

2: Stick Together. Halloween is way more fun with friends and fam! Go out in groups, there’s safety in numbers.

1: Shine, sparkle and glow. 82% of parents don’t use reflective tape or other high visibility aids on their child’s costume. Be sure to incorporate reflective tape, glow sticks, finger lights or light-up accessories.

The HCA is encouraging parents to stay involved in all the Halloween fun this year to ensure the safety of their family members. A shocking 12% of children 5 years old and younger are sent out to trick or treat alone. Statistically, the majority of all child fatalities on Halloween occur with children ages 12-15 (32%), followed by children ages 5-8 (23%). Tagging along with all trick or treaters, even from an embarrassment-free distance, if necessary, is recommended.

The HCA has countless costume connoisseurs available for interview. For tips, trends, & random reasons to sport a superhero suit, please reach out!

For Media Inquiries, Expert Commentary, or Product Samples, please contact Aneisha McMillan at amcmillan@hiaonline.org or 910.849.9003. 

Twitter                  LinkedIn               Facebook             Instagram

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About the Halloween & Costume Association

Known as THE industry source for Halloween, with cumulative sales of $3 billion, the HCA has earned the title of “EXPERT” when it comes to all things costume related. These are the folks that live and breathe October all year long and can dish for days on the myths, legends, trends, traditions, safety tips and devilish details that only a true insider would know.

MT LAUREL, NJ (October 16, 2023) - The Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) has commissioned a national online survey conducted by The Harris Poll among more than 1600 U.S. adults who celebrate Halloween. The results reveal some truly bewitching insights about how Americans are approaching Halloween festivities this year.

Haunted by Inflation:
Two-thirds of Americans who celebrate Halloween (66%) say their plans will be “haunted” by the specter of rising costs. Inflation, it seems, is casting its shadow over holiday celebrations, leading 36% to say they will spend less for Halloween this year compared to last year.

Price Reigns Supreme:
When it comes to making Halloween costume decisions, 42% of those who celebrate say price is impacting their choice most this year.

Halloween's Resilient Spirit:
Halloween has always been about embracing the unexpected, and this year appears to be no different. Halloween enthusiasts have historically found creative ways to keep the spirit alive and thriving, whether by getting crafty with costume creations, conjuring up spooktacular decorations, or finding clever ways to celebrate within their budget.

Impact on Industry Sales:
The Halloween industry experienced a record-setting year in 2022, with sales reaching an astonishing $10.6 billion. However, the survey results indicate that the impact of inflation and budget constraints on the Halloween-loving masses could potentially affect industry sales for 2023. While there is enthusiasm for Halloween among celebrants (34% are more excited for Halloween than last year, and 50% have the same amount of excitement), there may be a dash of adjustment in the cauldron of consumer spending patterns as the countdown to Oct. 31^st has officially begun.

The HCA has countless costume connoisseurs available for interview. For tips, trends, & random reasons to sport a superhero suit, please reach out!

For Media Inquiries, Expert Commentary, or Product Samples, please contact Aneisha McMillan at amcmillan@hiaonline.org/ 910.849.9003

Twitter      LinkedIn         Facebook          Instagram

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About the Halloween & Costume Association:
Known as THE industry source for Halloween, with cumulative sales of $3 billion, the HCA has earned the title of “EXPERT” when it comes to all things costume related. These are the folks who live and breathe October all year long and can dish for days on the myths, legends, trends, traditions, safety tips, and devilish details that only a true insider would know.

Survey Method:
This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Halloween & Costume Association from September 26 - 28, 2023, among 1,636 U.S. adults ages 18 and older who celebrate Halloween. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval.  For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.8 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact info@hiaonline.org.

MT LAUREL, NJ (September 27, 2023) - The Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) has just revealed the hottest costume trends for 2023, providing Halloween enthusiasts with inspiration for the absolute favorite holiday among both millennials and Gen Z. While 2022 saw a fast start in costume shopping, 2023 appears to be taking a slightly different approach, but the HCA remains confident that Halloween will be as amazing as ever.

Popular Trends for Halloween 2023:

• Pop Culture Icons: Calling all Swifties! Costumes paying homage to Taylor Swift, Super Mario Brothers, Wednesday Adams, and The Little Mermaid will all make a big splash this year. These costumes draw inspiration from beloved pop culture figures, reflecting the enduring popularity of dressing up as a favorite character from film, music or television.
• Barbie Movie Looks: Halloween fans can prepare to channel their inner Barbie and Ken with a dazzling array of costumes inspired by the Barbie Movie. This year, a spotlight is set to shine on Barbie and Ken couples and family costumes to include western wear and the iconic pink power jumpsuit.
• TMNT: Cowabunga! The Mutant Mayhem Movie has spurred a resurgence of turtle power. Modern Turtles will share the stage with beloved Classic TMNT Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael, and Donatello costumes. Whether one is a fan of the new or the classic, the Turtles are poised to remain a Halloween favorite.
• Creepy, grim and skeleton Costumes: Eerie and haunting, scary costumes are experiencing a robust resurgence. These spine-chilling ensembles cater to those who relish a touch of the macabre.
• Nostalgia, Fantasy, and Medieval Costumes: Costume enthusiasts can embark on a journey to another era with costumes inspired by nostalgia, fantasy, and medieval themes. From embodying legendary characters to transforming into mystical creatures, the possibilities are endless.
• Accessories Galore: In 2023, the devil is in the details. Accessories, particularly wigs, are experiencing high demand as they play a crucial role in completing one's Halloween look.

While Halloween is always an eagerly anticipated holiday, there are some unique factors affecting the start of the season this year. "In 2022, we witnessed a lightning-fast start, but 2023 presents a different rhythm. Regardless, the spirit of Halloween remains strong, and we're confident that this year will deliver its own brand of excitement,” said Gregor Lawson, HCA Chairman, and co-founder of MorphCostumes.

HCA has identified three key elements contributing to a slower start in costume sales:

• Tuesday Halloween: Halloween falling on a Tuesday has historically not been the most conducive for elaborate celebrations, prompting some to prolong decision making.

• Economic Strain: Although most people can afford Halloween celebrations, many are delaying costume purchases to avoid tying up cash, given ongoing economic uncertainties.
• Confidence in Availability: After well-publicized shortages in 2021, consumers may have more confidence in finding the costumes they want closer to Halloween, leading to delayed shopping.

As August sales represent only a fraction of the total, the HCA remains optimistic for Halloween 2023, envisioning a significant uptick in sales as the October festivities approach, potentially surpassing last year's numbers. The continued year-over-year growth of Halloween is a highly encouraging indicator, firmly establishing the foundation for yet another spectacular October celebration.

The HCA has countless costume connoisseurs available for interview. For tips, trends, & random reasons to sport a superhero suit, please reach out!

For Media Inquiries, Expert Commentary or Product Samples please contact Aneisha McMillan at amcmillan@hiaonline.org/ 910.849.9003

Twitter               Facebook           Instagram         LinkedIn

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About the Halloween & Costume Association

Known as THE industry source for Halloween, with cumulative sales of $3 billion, the HCA has earned the title of “EXPERT” when it comes to all things costume related. These are the folks that live and breathe October all year long and can dish for days on the myths, legends, trends, traditions, safety tips and devilish details that only a true insider would know.

• California Costumes Collections, Inc.
• Comeco Inc. - new for 2023
• Costume Culture By Franco
• Dreamgirl - new for 2023
• Ellie Shoes, Inc.
• Funny Fashion
  
• Ghoulish Productions 
• KBW Global
• Kroeger - new for 2023
• Loftus International - new for 2023
• Mehron - new for 2023
• Rasta Imposta
  
• Regent Products - new for 2023
• Rubies II, LLC
• Seeing Red, Inc. - new for 2023
• Smiffys - new for 2023
• Starline/Party King
• Trick or Treat Studios
• Zagone Studios, LLC
  

Registration for Virtual Buying Week will be available in 2 short weeks!

The final exhibitor list is as follows:

• California Costumes
• Comeco, Inc. 
• Costume Culture by Franco
• Dreamgirl International
• Ellie Shoes, Inc. 
• Funny Fashion
• Ghoulish Products
• KBW Global
• Kroeger, Inc. 
• Loftus International 
• Mehron, Inc. 
• Rasta Imposta
• Regent Products
• Rubies II, LLC. 
• Seeing Red, Inc. 
• Smiffys
• Starline/Party King
• Trick or Treat Studios
• Zagone Studios, LLC

If you would like to be added to the invite list, please email Kimberly Libucki, HCA Membership Coordinator at klibucki@halloweencostumeassociation.org. 

View original Press Release here for more details. 

HCA would like to welcome new affiliate member Kroeger Inc. This 51-year-old stocking distributor proudly represents some of the world's largest and best toy creators through wholesale distribution of proprietary lines within the North American retailer environment. 

Follow them on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kroegerinc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kroeger-inc/

MT. LAUREL, NJ (June 1, 2023) – Registration will soon begin for the Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) Virtual Buying Week, a groundbreaking virtual platform designed to connect buyers and sellers in the Halloween industry. This innovative event provides a convenient and efficient way for industry professionals to schedule appointments and explore business opportunities by providing a streamlined and user-friendly appointment-setting platform accessible from anywhere.

The Virtual Buying Week facilitates seamless appointment scheduling, empowering HCA members to arrange meetings with buyers while enabling buyers to effortlessly connect with members at their convenience throughout the day. The buyers event will take place Dec 5 – Dec 7, 2023, from 7 am to 7 pm EST, allowing participants to find suitable time windows that align with their availability.

This virtual event is solely dedicated to appointments, optimizing the buying process for all parties involved. Members can engage in 30 or 60-minute meetings using an intuitive platform that promotes smooth communication and collaboration. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase show specials, present new products for 2024, and reconnect with existing clients in a purposeful manner.

The Virtual Buying Week is entirely free to both buyers and sellers that are HCA members. Non-members are encouraged to join HCA and take advantage of this exclusive event as well as a variety of year-round membership benefits detailed on the HCA website.

With a growing buyer's list of over 2000 industry professionals, the Virtual Buying Week promises extensive reach and networking opportunities. HCA aims to expand its buyer base even further this year, fostering more connections and facilitating a thriving business ecosystem within the Halloween industry.

"We are pleased to continue our Virtual Buying Week, an initiative born during the COVID pandemic but sustained due to its exceptional value to our members and buyers. Last year it facilitated more than 250 connections underscoring its reach and effectiveness," said Gregor Lawson, Halloween & Costume Association Chairman and co-founder of MorphCostumes.

For more information about the Virtual Buying Week, interested parties are encouraged to visit the HCA website or connect via email to be notified when registration officially opens.

For Media Inquiries, Expert Commentary, or Product Samples, please contact Aneisha McMillan amcmillan@hiaonline.org / 910.849.9003

LinkedIn   Twitter    Facebook   Instagram 

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About the Halloween & Costume Association

Known as THE industry source for Halloween, with cumulative sales of $3 billion, the HCA has earned the title of “EXPERT” when it comes to all things costume related. These are the folks that live and breathe October all year long and can dish for days on the myths, legends, trends, traditions, safety tips, and devilish details that only a true insider would know.

HCA would like to welcome new member Seeing Red Inc., a fashion-forward Halloween Apparel Company that pushes the boundaries of the current trends matched with the spooky nature of Halloween. Whether comical, dark, cute, or down-right absurd, Seeing Red offers an array of costumes and accessories that meet everyone’s unique and ghoulish needs.

Follow them on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seeingredinc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SeeingRedInc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OnlySeeingRed

They are a manufacturer, Importer & Distributor of unique Halloween and Theatrical Accessories throughout North America. 

Follow them on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/hmsmallwares/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HMSmallwares
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hmsmakeupaccessories

HCA partnered with Bureau Veritas as it's preferred laboratory to offer it's members discounts on product testing. Bureau Veritas has over 30 years of technical experience. This background enhances their ability to provide quality assurance services that will help strengthen their clients’ brand by minimizing the risk of recalls, returns and complaints. Their “one-stop” quality assurance services include quality and safety evaluations, consulting, design evaluations, testing to worldwide standards, inspections, factory audits, and a broad portfolio of sustainability solutions including services to address sustainable claim, sustainable chemical management, climate and energy reduction, durability, circularity and due diligence requirements.

Why Choose Bureau Veritas Buffalo:

• Short turn-around times
  
• Expansive global capabilities
• Contacts in your time zone
• Ability to customize testing to your specific needs

Bureau Veritas Halloween & Costume Association Program Contact:
Michael Knott, Global Account Manager
michael.knott@bureauveritas.com

A family-run business selling handmade false mustaches and beards to wholesalers, stores, and people all over the world. Founders Tomas Siuipys and his wife Rasuole have been in the party industry for more than 20 years. They’ve built a nationwide chain of party supply shops. They are a modern environmentally friendly company.

Comeco Inc. has been in the wholesale fashion accessories business for the past 28 years. They are a manufacturer and wholesale distributor of women’s fashion handbags, fashion belts, wallets, cosmetic bags, and sunglasses. As a manufacturer and importer of wholesale products they pride themselves in offering customers the latest trends in fun and fashion accessories at great prices.

To kick off the buying season for next year, the Halloween & Costume Association historically has sponsored the International Halloween Show in New York each December. For 2022, we're offering a virtual event to allow buyers and manufacturers alike an opportunity to request appointments and meet online face-to-face in a robust platform, Monday, December 5 through Thursday, December 8. To allow flexibility for participants across time zones, show hours will be 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET but each participant will indicate their own personal availability each day.

Buyers -- Please click here to register to participate. Once you're registered, you'll receive an email with information as to how to access the event to view exhibitors and start requesting appointments.

List of Exhibitor Participants:

California Costumes Collections, Inc.
Costume Culture By Franco
Ellie Shoes, Inc. elope, Inc
Funny Fashion
Ghoulish Productions - new for 2022
KBW Global 
MOM - My Other Me Fun Company - new for 2022
Orchid Bloom Primal Contact Lenses
Rasta Imposta Rubies II, LLC
Starline/Party King
Trick or Treat Studios
Western Fashion - new for 2022
Woochie by Cinema Secrets - new for 2022
Zagone Studios, LLC

We're also excited to see everyone in person at the Halloween & Party Expo, January 10-12, 2023 at The Mirage in Las Vegas. Click here for more information and to register for that event.

Any questions, please email info@halloweencostumeassociation.org

Shopping for Halloween can be overwhelming because you have so many things on your list. You always ask yourself these questions when preparing to stock up for the 31st of October: What costumes should I buy? What accessories are new? Where can I get make-up? Don't worry, because this year we are offering you a virtual opportunity again to connect with our member companies so you can buy all the essential things you need to stock up for the Halloween season. Wait...not only do these companies provide Halloween items, but you can also find MANY products to make your Valentine's Day, St. Patty's Day, Easter, etc. that much more fun!

Western Fashion, Inc. has made a name for itself in the list of top suppliers in the United States. They are an apparel and fashion company based out of Chino, CA, providing a selection of belly dancing items, tribal, victorian clothing, fashion jewelry, and so much more!

Follow them on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/western_fashion_inc/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WesternFashions

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westernfashioninc

What is MY OTHER ME? It is the passionate response we give to the expectations and demands of the entertainment sector. Every human feels, at some point in his life, the irrepressible desire to "become another"... To have fun, to enjoy, to uninhibited yourself. There are very few brands that understand that the ultimate goal of people who decide to buy a costume and its accessories is to have a fun experience. But it is not that the experience is fun after having put on the costume, it is about it being fun from the moment we decide to transform into another.

We are motivated to innovate and create products that respond to the latest trends, but also, that they are accessible to everyone. That implies facilitating the task of finding the right product, offering a complete and well-structured range. It also implies that our articles are available in the most professional distribution channels, which can advise properly in the search for the best experience. It is essential that the presentation of our products transmits the same level of enthusiasm, passion, and effort that we put in when designing them and making them reach the market. MY OTHER ME wants to become the most desired manufacturer in those points of sale where it is exposed through its brands My Other Me and Yiija Fast Fun.

Follow them on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viving-costumes/about/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myothermespain/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/payasospital/status/1146081134389993473

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myothermespain