She leans in, focused and intent, her fingers moving with a fluid grace as they craft intricate designs that seem to dance across the skin. The air buzzes with anticipation as each stroke brings a new pattern to life. In this moment, the world fades away, leaving only the beauty of art and the joy it brings.
For sophomore Isha Sharma, this moment is about more than creating beautiful patterns; it’s a chance to connect with others while spreading her heritage. What started as a hobby sparked by boredom has grown into a blossoming henna business, Henna by Isha, with Sharma creating exquisite patterns for weddings, festivals and other occasions.
“My interest was sparked randomly, but now it really is about expanding my business and meeting new people,” Sharma said.
Sharma started her business off by doing henna for her family and friends, but when they started paying her for her talents, she realized she could turn her hobby into something big.
“I’ve been doing henna for around a year and a half now,” Sharma said. “I decided to turn it into a business around a year ago when my friends and family started paying me after I did theirs.”
Senior Andrew Gao has seen firsthand the dedication Sharma puts into every design.
“I recently volunteered for the Henna by Isha booth during Diwali Fest,” Gao said. “Seeing her doing henna for so many people showed me the amount of care she puts into every design she does, no matter how big or small. She really tries to connect with her clients and makes the entire process enjoyable.”
Sharma takes pride in working with her clients to make each design unique.
“I always ask each client what designs appeal to them the most,” Sharma said. “I kind of mash up their style with my own, making sure each design compliments their hand anatomy and bone structure.”
Her reputation for high-quality work, as well as her cheerful and approachable manner, have helped her business expand. Many of her clients come from her social media pages and during town festivals.
“A lot of finding clients is just networking with the right people at the right time,” Sharma said. “Working with the mayor and setting up a booth at Diwali Fest has gotten me I don’t know how many more clients.”
Senior Riddhima Shankar believes it’s Sharma’s personal touch and dedication that set her apart.
“She really tried to get to know me on more of a personal level rather than a professional one,” Shankar said. “That made the whole experience more memorable. It definitely made me want to come and get my henna done again. Overall, I could tell she really puts her heart into not only every design she does but also the clients themselves.
Sharma’s long-term goals include spreading her culture and love for henna around Southlake.
“I eventually hope to have more people, especially in Southlake, appreciate henna and other forms of Indo-Arabic art,” Sharma said.
One thing is certain as Sharma looks to the future: her passion for henna will continue to direct her path.
“Henna is more than just art for me,” Sharma said. “It’s my way of spreading my culture, so I’m definitely hoping to continue this at least until my senior year of college. Henna helps me feel more connected with my heritage.”
