Fantasy Balls Love Plus-Size Money—But Forget to Include Plus-Size People
Let’s be real: fantasy balls, Renaissance faires, and magical events are a nerd’s dream come true. Where else can you wear a tiara, pretend you’re a long-lost royal, and sip mead without anyone batting an eye?
But here’s the not-so-magical truth: while fantasy events happily take plus-size women’s money, they often forget to include them in their marketing.
Fantasy Was Built on Inclusivity
Fantasy has always been a place for the dreamers and the outcasts—a community where nerds and misfits come together to celebrate magic, whimsy, and dressing up like you’re in a Jane Austen novel.
But recently, fantasy has gotten trendy. Big-budget events, social media campaigns, and influencers are stepping into the spotlight. And while that’s great for visibility, it’s brought a problem: a lot of new folks running these events seem to have left the inclusive spirit of fantasy at the door.
Instead of celebrating the glorious diversity of the community, many events only feature thin, white influencers in their ads and Instagram feeds. The result? Marketing that doesn’t reflect the real magic of these events—or the people who actually show up to them.
Let’s Talk About the Audience You’re Ignoring
Here’s the thing: if you attend a fantasy ball, you’ll see people of all shapes, sizes, and colors. You’ll see:
• Plus-size women twirling in stunning ballgowns that would make Cinderella jealous.
• Women of color rocking corsets, crowns, and confidence.
• A vibrant mix of attendees who make these events feel welcoming, alive, and magical.
But when it comes to marketing, where are these folks? Why are event organizers only showing thin, white influencers when their actual audience is so much more than that?
Why Representation Equals Dollars
Let’s get practical: representation isn’t just about being kind and inclusive—it’s also good for business.
When people see someone who looks like them in your ads, it sends a clear message: You belong here. And when people feel like they belong, they’re much more likely to:
1. Buy a ticket.
2. Spend money on costumes, props, and merch.
3. Tell their friends to come along too.
On the flip side, if your marketing is full of nothing but cookie-cutter influencers, you risk alienating the very people who keep your events thriving.
How to Make Your Fantasy Marketing Truly Magical
Luckily, fixing this is easier than summoning a dragon. (And way less dangerous.)
1. Hire Diverse Content Creators
Your audience is already diverse, so your influencers and UGC (user-generated content) creators should be too. Partner with:
• Plus-size influencers.
• Women of color.
• Creators of all genders, ages, and abilities.
And don’t just hire them for a single post—make them a central part of your campaign! Their authenticity will resonate with your audience.
2. Show Off Your Actual Attendees
Want authentic content? Look no further than your event’s attendees. Post photos of the incredible, real-life people who make your events magical. Bonus points if you feature folks who break the “traditional” mold of fantasy marketing.
3. Rethink Your Campaign Aesthetic
Does every costume in your campaign look like it’s designed for a size 2? Does your imagery lack diversity? It’s time to shake things up! Showcase costumes and themes on a range of bodies and skin tones, so everyone feels like they’re part of the fantasy.
Who’s Doing It Right?
Some brands are already proving that inclusive marketing works:
• Selkie: This dreamy clothing brand went viral by partnering with creators of all body types, ethnicities, and genders. Their marketing isn’t just beautiful—it’s relatable.
• Renaissance Faires: Many fairs are stepping up and featuring diverse creators who reflect the real-life magic of their audiences.
The takeaway? Representation isn’t just possible—it’s profitable.
This Isn’t About Guilt—It’s About Growth
Let’s be clear: we’re not here to wag fingers or point blame. Most fantasy event organizers aren’t intentionally excluding anyone—they just haven’t thought about how important representation is.
This is your friendly reminder that you can do better—and doing better doesn’t just help your audience, it helps your brand.
Fantasy is supposed to be about magic, imagination, and creating worlds where everyone belongs. By embracing that spirit in your marketing, you’ll not only attract more attendees—you’ll create a community that feels truly enchanted.
So next time you’re planning a campaign, ask yourself: Who am I representing? If the answer doesn’t reflect the diversity of your audience, it’s time to make some changes.
Because the real magic of fantasy isn’t just in the gowns or the glitter—it’s in making sure that every single person feels like they’ve stepped into their own fairytale.
As someone who frequents fantasy events, I’ve experienced the magic that unfolds when people come together to celebrate creativity, imagination, and a shared love for the extraordinary. These events are a haven where everyone, no matter their background, size, or story, can step into a fairytale and feel like they belong. What makes them truly special isn’t just the glittering costumes, enchanting music, or breathtaking venues—it’s the incredible mix of people who show up and make the experience come alive.
I want to see fantasy events embrace and showcase that magic in their marketing. Highlight the diversity of attendees who pour their hearts into their costumes, the joy of a community that welcomes everyone, and the moments that make these events feel like home. When marketing reflects the beauty of the real people who create these magical worlds, it sends a powerful message: You are seen. You are valued. You belong here. That’s the kind of story I want fantasy events to tell, and I believe it’s a story worth sharing with the world.
