Zahra Henna Artist from Silver Spring, MD

All Natural Temporary Body Adornment Zahra will adorn your guests with Henna or Jagua, cosmetic gifts from the Earth. Designs are usually applied to hands and feet but other areas work as well as long as they can be left exposed to dry and set. Design options may be chosen from the artist's design books and examples, from a look chosen by the recipient, or pre-determined by the host or hostess, keeping in mind time restraints. Detailed info sheets will be available. Henna Is... The art of Mehndi or Henna, also known as Loli, Fodon, Jabbe, Egyptian Priest and Mignonette Tree, is an ancient practice that originated in Africa. It is still enjoyed by people in many countries in Africa and Asia today. Considered to be a significant part of rites of passage, Henna is most known for being an important part of the wedding celebration, although in some places it is a part of any celebration and is even used for healing. The application of the paste made from the Henna plant in decorative or symbolic designs leaves a temporary stain on the skin that lasts a few weeks. This practice in its purest form is all natural and safe and is known to have conditioning effects on the skin as well as other healing properties. Over all, receiving mehndi is transformative and cleansing, believed to be an offering of protection, love and good fortune. Receiving Henna takes time. This is the meditative aspect of the art. To get the deepest stain, preparation, stillness and patience are necessary. Once applied, designs must dry completely. The time varies depending on the design, averaging about 15 minutes. Then a lemon-sugar glaze is applied for as long as conveniently possible. The length of time the paste is in place will determine the depth of color, so activities planned after Henna should always be considered. People who have sensitive skin or who are allergic to certain essential oils should ask about ingredients in the paste, or try a test spot. * After paste is removed, Henna design is bright orange and then deepens to dark reddish brown within 24-48 hours. * Henna designs may last for a week to a month, depending on where the design is: on the palms and soles 3-4 weeks; everywhere else 1-2 weeks. "Henna is a name in India. Once I met a woman from India named Henna. I asked her what her name means, and she said to me, "Henna means happiness." Jagua Is... a fruit that grows in Central and South America. The juice from the unripe fruit of the Jagua tree leaves a temporary blue black stain on the skin. People of the Amazon have been using the Jagua fruit to decorate their bodies for ceremonial purposes and for it's many healing properties for as long as they can remember. Like Henna, the Jagua stain lasts a few weeks on average. Because of the rich color, it resembles the ink of a real tattoo and is the perfect alternative to "Black Henna" with no harmful ingredients. The average Jagua design will dry in 15-20 minutes. It is important to be as still as possible to avoid disturbing the Jagua as it dries. For those who have sensitive skin, or who have allergies to fruits or nuts should try a test spot. *After Jagua gel is removed, the design may be light gray to even invisible and then deepens within 24-48 hours. *Once removed, it is important to wash the design with water to prevent excess gel from remaining on the skin. Zahra will come to your event for a minimum of $150 (limited service area). Your choice: Guests pay for their own designs OR Hostess pays an hourly rate. Here are some tips for having your best Body Adornment experience: * Keep in mind the process of receiving Henna or Jagua when planning activities for your event. * Design application timing depends on size, intricacy and amount of Henna or Jagua used. * The amount of Henna or Jagua needed for solid fingertips and toes or solid palms or soles must be pre-ordered at least one day in advance. A limit to the size and number of designs for each recipient may be determined in advance for all to receive within the agreed time. Belly Dance Zahra will inspire and entertain at your celebration with Egyptian Style Belly Dance! This dance of Love, Joy and Healing will captivate your guests with infectious rhythms, up beat fast hip shimmying and slow hypnotic melodies. Zahra's performance may include veils and zils (finger cymbols) and upon request, a dance lesson or group dance along, complete with coin hip scarves for guests to borrow or purchase. * The Body Adornment Belly Dance Combo, Perfect for Birthday Parties and Ladies Night Out!!!