Henna, self-love, embodiment, it was all about the flow tonight at Mehndi+Marked. I attended an event hosted there tonight by The Beauty Boost Indy and what a special design studio this truly is. Nestled off Prospect St, in the Fountain Square area, you can find this magical place right across the way from Loco ( a Mexican joint). Look for the sparkly glass windows with a mood lighting. I was dropped off this time by my hubs, but parking is very much street parking, or neighborhood parking. The event was later in the night so I felt safer being chauffeured, just my personal suggestion. First thing I noticed right away is all of the beautiful paintings and original artwork hanging on the walls. Henna design on different products for sale, such as stickers (my fave) and mini planners. There are t-shirts, wallets, essential oils, and more to choose from. I was told several other small biz owners vend their products for retail on the open shelving. There is soft music playing tonight and I see they have a nice collection of vinyl to select from. Everything about this space feels very tangible, and alive. They even have some potted plants breathing along with you. Rather refreshing and allows you to have a mini escape. The owner Joey (I'm unsure of the spelling of her real name), is extremely gifted. Mostly self-taught and exceptionally kind. She has a portfolio of both Henna and Jagua designs for you to select from and she will explain the time it takes and what the pricing is based on your selections. FYI, Henna is going to leave a reddish-dark orange stain, on most skin tones, and the Jagua is going to leave you with a rich dark blue stain, on most skin tones. I am lighter complected so I went with Henna as I think that my skin tone will respond best to it. I also have sensitive acne prone skin, so anything new that I introduce to my skin, I prefer to have it on the backs of my hands. Her business for the henna design is called Johenna Designs. I signed up for henna design on both of my hands. I am a bohemian spirit in a lot of ways. I prefer boho style and fashion, when I'm not wearing my typical regular casual or athleisure fits. Comfort is key! But back to my hands, so I wanted both of my hands adorned (as I like to call it). Our body is our temple and I do feel like adorning our bodies can be done in different ways that can be very becoming. She designed both hands in about 15 min-20 min I think. It was very precise, non-messy, and beautiful artistry. You will simply be mesmerized by watching her perform her craft. I was given a QR code to scan that takes you to an instructional video about how to care for your Henna design. Most important is to avoid using any water or washing over the design for a minimum of 2 hours but I think they recommended 8-12 hours if you can do that. The longer the stain is left on your skin the longer your temporary tattoo will last. On average it stays for 1-3 weeks as she explained to me. Once I get up tomorrow I can wash this off and I will share pics once it darkens in about 2 days that it takes. I paid $30 plus I added a 20% tip for my henna designs. Depending on I'm guessing how intricate and the time involved, I'm sure the design and pricing varies widely. I suggest you inquire about what specifically you are interested in with the business owner herself and she can better guide you to what will be a good design for you! There are other lovely products to shop for as gift season is approaching, so if you aren't into the henna then definitely check the other products out at least. This space is also partially a tattoo studio there is a permanent tattoo artist that also works out of here if you prefer to use their services. No pressure, I don't have any tattoos myself, and some of this is also new to me, but I think it's ok to have an open mind and at least visit for a unique experience. 11/30/23 - Jackie M. read more

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I had a great experience here! Joey was super welcoming and talked me through the whole henna process, and how to make it last. The place is cute too. read more