“I think the best part about this business is that I get to create art on other people,” said Tess Nalezny, a junior who has started her own henna business.

Nalezny first found interest in henna when she discovered the costs of henna designs. “I went to Knott’s Berry Farm and spent seventeen dollars for a tiny henna and thought I could make a business out of it,” Nalezny stated.

Nalezny’s business is available for birthday and parties, summer looks and much more. “I think the best part is to also create new designs,” she said.

Henna has ties  to Ancient Egypt and the Middle East. It was brought to India from Egyptian moguls. Workers in Egypt dipped their hands and feet in henna for a solid coating and it was used prior to mummification, as stated in “hennaartconnection.com.” The tattoos are created using the henna plant itself which is then  “tattooed” onto the skin.  It is only temporary, but it  typically lasts a week or  longer. It is a form of self-expression and decoration for parties, weddings or any other occasion.

Nalezny can be contacted through her email, [email protected] and on her Instagram, @beautifulmehndibytessn for further information or to schedule an appointment.