Follow the
#MerryMarioMelee countdown and watch these bobombs go kaboom in the New Year!
The 2012 Alternative Press Expo (APE) was held at the Concourse Exhibition Center in San Francisco this year. I was cordially invited to attend by Steph Cortes of NerdJERK and had the chance to hear what’s on the horizon for her geek inspired brand of handmade plush toys. APE was a very special occasion this year because Steph and her fiancé Roger (Effing Awesome) decided to have their Geek Rockstar Wedding right there at the show! Their special day was celebrated among family, friends, and fans along with a custom made wedding dress and decorations from the art community that took DIY weddings to another level. It was pure NerdJERK awesomeness and I felt honored to be a part of that day. ^____^
If you ever run into Steph at one of these events, you’ll feel an overwhelming spirit that, in my opinion, is a big part of her success. Her presence is energetic, outgoing and impossible to ignore. That’s why it’s difficult to believe that this year has actually been particularly challenging for her including some unexpected health issues that we all hope are behind her. Steph courageously writes about her challenges on her blog, reminding us all that NerdJERK is the product of tireless dedication that can sometimes take its toll on the people behind it.
On Day Two of the expo (and married life!), Steph revealed her future plans for the NerdJERK brand. Perhaps the biggest change is the retiring of those beloved Nintendo inspired plush toys. No more Bob-ombs, Kirbys, or Thwomps ever again so if you’ve been holding out on getting one of those Bob-ombs, your last chance is now (visit her etsy shop)! Starting January 1st, Steph will be focusing on her own original character designs including some hilarious looking “Hot Sauce Wrestlers” and some adorably colorful plush crayons which we got a sneak peek of at the show. While we’re sad to see the video game plushes go, we’re excited to see Steph Cortes take NerdJERK and her creative vision to the next level.
See NerdJERK’s creations at nerdjerk.etsy.com for the perfect holiday gift!
NerdJERK’s booth is packed with goodies. Yeah!
A sneak peek at some original character designs!
The beginnings of a Hot Sauce Wrestler?!
Steph Cortes showing off what she loves most
I’ll be waiting for the Box of 64
Advanced Amigurumi Techniques
Felt eyes and teeth for Chain Chomp
Preview of what’s to come in 2013
Yarn + Caffeine + Music = Creation
Can someone help put this thing back on?
Move fast, THWOMP! Someone take me home!
