SCHENECTADY – The Costumer, a local business with a rich history, moved its retail location last August to a new location at Mohawk Harbor in Schenectady. The new location sprawls over 7,000 square feet, now containing an outdoor patio for family events and plenty of free parking for shoppers
On Saturday, October 15th, The Costumer will be hosting a Family Fun Event. Their Fang-tastic Fiesta is from 11-3pm on the patio, moving indoors if the weather is poor. The event is free. Attendees can participate in pumpkin decorating, mask making, makeup demos, while enjoying Flacos Tacos food truck.
“Our patio is decorated for the season,” said Co-owner Bonnie Johnsen. “It is a wonderful photo opportunity. Kids love it! A visit to The Costumer is great way to get into the Halloween spirit.”
The company caters to a variety of needs for shoppers in the Capital Region, selling dancewear/footwear, holiday themed costumes, wigs, props, accessories, makeup as well as costume rentals at our Barrett Street location.
“The Costumer is open all year round,” reminded Johnsen. “We do not disappear after Halloween.”
Their extensive selection provides customers with a vast variety of options to achieve their Halloween costume vision.
The expansive space at Mohawk Harbor allows for a wonderful hands-on shopping experience. “We encourage customers to try things on. Our creative staff is also available to assist with accessories, props and wigs,” added Johnsen. “What people are getting is a warm and fuzzy shopping experience when stepping through our doors.”
“Our Mohawk Harbor store has a large makeup counter, stocked with makeup for Halloween as well as theatrical makeup. The staff is delighted to do makeup demos for customers who may be a bit apprehensive about doing special effects makeup for Halloween,” added Johnsen.
“Shoppers benefit from our fantastic customer service when they shop with us,” continued Johnsen. “Everyone that works here absolutely loves what they do and loves Halloween, so they are excited to be helping you.”
The Costumer’s customer service is another differentiating aspect of The Costumer, appealing to repeat customers. “We have a loyal following,” said Johnsen.
The Costumer has been around for over 100 years, beginning in 1917 as a costume rental store. The company’s rental business has grown over the years, with a focus on scholastic theater. The Costumer costumes over 1,000 shows a year across the United States.
“There are literally generations of families that have grown up with The Costumer. We love hearing all of the stories from our customers,” said Johnsen. “It is a wonderful feeling for us as owners knowing we have part of so many family memories.”
Bonnie Johnsen and her husband, Erik Johnsen, are the fourth owners of this generational store’s legacy. “You have this huge responsibility to keep going and make it better, too.” said Johnsen, “and really listen to your customers.”
“We are grateful for The Capital Region’s continued support of The Costumer.”
