Trained
in all traditional styles of henna design and with over 8 years
experience Maggie has a wealth of knowledge covering all aspects of henna,it's application, science, health & safety, history and culture.
"I
found my love of mehandi (henna) at the young age of 12 when I had a
design done on my hand in Toronto. I played around with henna for years
although never very seriously (and honestly it didn't look good either).
However one year after I got married I came across a book in Toronto
that would change my life. While sari shopping in "Little India" I came
across this book from India to teach children the basics of Indian
designs and for the price of the book I figured it wouldn't be a big
loss if I couldn't do it, after all I did fail high school art class.
Not only could I follow the book but I quickly invested in more books,
better quality henna and learnt each traditional style. Six years later
and a lot of hard work I am now the owner of a quickly growing business.
Sometimes I need to pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming."
On November 15th 2011 Maggie became certified by the ICNHA (International certified natural henna arts) making her the firstand only ICNHA certified henna artist in London, Ontario and only the 7th in Canada.
Mehandi by Maggie only
uses the freshest henna available 100% free of added chemicals and
synthetic dyes. No premixed cones, "mehndi oil" or "black henna" as
premixed cones and "mehndi oil" often contain unlisted and dangerous
ingredients.
The product known as "
Black henna" is an illegal substance banned by
Health Canada which is highly dangerous as it contains the chemical known as PPD (
Para-phenylenediamine).
Unfortunately there are henna artists out there that continue to use
this product either for lack of knowledge or lack of concern for their
customers. "Black henna" can lead to serious chemical burns to your skin
which can cause scarring however not all the damage done by "black
henna" can be seen by the naked eye. Exposure to PPD can cause
sensitivity (allergy) to it and even cross sensitivity to many related
things. This sensitivity never goes away and can ruin your life. If you
have a sensitivity to PPD you could get a reaction from things like hair
dye, sun block, cosmetics and even some black clothing. PPD has also
been shown to be carcinogenic (cancer causing) and to affect your health
in other ways as it penetrates your skin and travels through your blood
stream.
Henna looks different
on everyone. Body chemistry, temperature and location all affect the
stain. However by using the freshest, highest quality henna and
essential oils you can be assured you will get a dark, long lasting
stain (when aftercare instructions are followed).
 |
Maggie
On the cover of 'Real Women London' magazine May 2008. Henna work done by Maggie (of course).
|
|
 |
Maggie with Swami
In the Summer of 2010 Maggie was lucky enough to meet the internationally acclaimed group Swami and was able to be photographed with two of it's members.
|
|
 |
Maggie @ work
Maggie at work on her very first bride. Fall 2008
|
|
 |
Maggie @ work II
Here Maggie is fast at work on a student during Mother Teresa CSS's International day '10.
|
|
