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Mehendhi by Mejhiren
What is mehendhi?
"Mehendhi" (mehandi, mehndi) is another name for the powder derived from dried henna leaves (the base component of henna paste). It can also refer to the paste itself as well as to the design on the skin.
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How is mehendhi applied, and how long does it take to apply?
Application techniques vary, but most artists (Mejhiren includedJ) use a cone similar to a frosting tube to apply henna paste to the skin's surface. A pattern can take anywhere from a half-hour to several hours to apply, depending on size and complexity of the design. It then takes 3 days for the henna stain to reach its darkest color.
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How dark will the henna stain and how long will it last?
Depending on skin type, blood circulation, and location on the body where the design is applied, the stain can range from a light orange to a dark mahogany brown in color. How long it lasts varies by the type of design and its location on your body; in general, 1-4 weeks.
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How much does a mehendhi design cost?
Prices start at and vary by size and complexity of design, as well as amount of henna required to complete it.
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HISTORY & TRADITIONS
Mehendhi is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt, where, in addition to serving cosmetic and healing purposes, it was used to stain the fingers and toes of the Pharaohs prior to mummification.
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Today mention of henna painting is likely to evoke images of fancy Indian weddings, and rightly so. Mehendhi is an integral part of Indian marriage ritual, and several traditions have sprung up over the years in regard to this art form:
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The groom's initials are often incorporated into the elaborate patterns of the bride's mehendhi, which he must try to find after the ceremony.
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Some say that the darker the color of the bride's mehendhi, the more love and affection she will get from her husband--others argue that it is her mother-in-law who will love her! Either way, a deeply-colored design is believed to indicate good luck for the newlyweds.
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Traditionally, a new bride is not expected to do any housework until her mehendhi has faded--hence the demand for dark, long-lasting designs!
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PARTIES For an exotic alternative to a conventional get-together, why not host a mehendhi party? Whether for a birthday, bridal shower, or simply girls' night in, a mehendhi party is a great--and very traditional--way to kick back and enjoy a bit of Eastern pampering. Mejhiren will of course tailor the party's theme and content to fit your occasion, but a sample party would include basic henna and bindis/rhinestone accents for five, as well as a half-hour's instruction in basic bellydance moves!
PROMS/FORMALS
Add a touch of Eastern flair to your next formal event with Mehendhi by Mejhiren! Special designs available, complete with touch-ups of glitter and rhinestones. (Remember, it takes 3 days for the henna stain to reach its darkest shade, so be sure to book your mehendhi a few days in advance of your event.)
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Interested in having mehendhi done? Call Mejhiren at (402) 641-3335 or e-mail galateabyron@yahoo.com.
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