Hi there!
I've been on the fence about doing a Phasma build for about a year now, and I finally decided to go for it! While this will be my first build for the 501st, I've got some decent experience that I hope will help me create the costume I've been dreaming about Reading @LadyInWhite, @sharkbait, and @Soulart posts (along with others of course) have been such an inspiration for me - I'm really excited to get going!!
From what I can tell, there aren't many Phasmas around ... I live in Southern California and would love to know if I've got anyone near me who might've gone through this whole process. I've been reading threads here without joining because I was nervous, but you all are so helpful and supportive to fellow Phasma builders in the past that I decided to take a chance and join in on the fun!
I've been researching armor, and I'm curious - is KB Props out of business? Seems like a lot of people went through them but then stopped a little while ago. Any recommendations for the best place to get my armor from? I'm putting together a list (similar to Sharkbait's original post here) of what I need/where to get it, so any ideas or input is super appreciated. I'm 6'1 and a little concerned about getting "big enough" items too.
Before I go, I just want to say to anyone reading this -- I've been a Star Wars fan for years, and although I always knew the 501st existed, I was too scared/nervous to join. This past weekend, however, I was volunteering at a Make-A-Wish event and saw the 501st in action for the first time ... and was completely amazed. You all are awesome, creative, and so amazing with kids (and adults!). I saw people who not only love and appreciated the Star Wars universe like I do, but who also used that passion and created something magical with it for the rest of the world. Call me cheesy, but I think you all are really special. Looking forward to getting to know y'all going forward!