Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria.
Hi Maria, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey into henna started during one of the most meaningful seasons of my life—pregnancy. I wanted a custom henna design for my belly blessing that reflected my story, my intentions, and the symbolism that was important to me. After researching the meanings behind different symbols, I reached out to several henna artists around Kansas City, only to discover how difficult they were to find. Even more surprising, every artist I contacted asked me to send a picture from the internet rather than creating something original.
That experience stayed with me. I couldn’t understand why something as personal and symbolic as henna couldn’t also be customized to the individual wearing it.
So I decided to learn.
What began as a desire to create my own belly blessing unexpectedly revealed something much bigger: it helped me recognize that I was an artist. Henna became the medium that unlocked a creativity I hadn’t fully embraced before. As I practiced, I realized I wasn’t just recreating designs—I loved listening to people’s stories, understanding what was meaningful to them, and translating those ideas into one-of-a-kind artwork.
That’s how Henna by Tati was born.
Today, my work is centered around creating custom henna experiences rather than simply applying designs. Whether I’m celebrating a bride, an expecting mother, or someone who simply wants to express themselves through body art, my goal is to create pieces that feel personal, intentional, and unforgettable. What started as filling a gap in the Kansas City market has grown into a business built on creativity, connection, and the belief that art should tell a story.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped the artist and business owner I am today.
One of my biggest struggles was overcoming perfectionism. As a self-taught artist, it was easy to compare myself to others or feel like I wasn’t ready yet. I spent a lot of time questioning my work instead of trusting my creativity. Looking back, I realize growth only happened when I gave myself permission to create anyway.
Building awareness has also been a challenge. When I first started, henna wasn’t very common in Kansas City, so a lot of my work involved educating people on what henna is, how long it lasts, and how it could be so much more than a copied design from the internet.
Like many small business owners, I’ve also learned to wear every hat—artist, marketer, photographer, accountant, customer service representative, and event coordinator. It’s a constant learning process, but I’ve come to appreciate that each role has helped me build a stronger business.
The biggest lesson through it all has been that success isn’t about getting everything perfect—it’s about staying consistent, continuing to learn, and trusting the unique perspective you bring. Every challenge has reinforced why I started Henna by Tati in the first place: to create meaningful, custom artwork that makes people feel seen and celebrated.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Henna by Tati, I create custom henna artwork that is as unique as the person wearing it. Rather than asking clients to choose a design from the internet, I take the time to learn about their vision, their story, and what they hope to express. From there, I create original designs that reflect who they are and the occasion they’re celebrating.
While I specialize in custom body art for private appointments, weddings, maternity sessions, festivals, and special events, what I’m really known for is creating an experience. My goal is for every client to leave feeling relaxed, celebrated, and seen—not just with beautiful henna, but with a memory they’ll carry long after the stain has faded.
As a multidisciplinary artist, I bring a fine art perspective to every design. I love incorporating symbolism, balance, and storytelling into my work, whether that means creating an intricate bridal piece, a meaningful belly blessing, or a bold statement sleeve. Every design is created with intention because I believe art has the power to connect us to ourselves and to the moments that matter most.
What I’m most proud of is helping people see themselves differently. There’s something incredibly special about watching someone look at their finished design and light up with confidence, joy, or even emotion because they feel represented in the artwork. Those moments remind me that I’m creating more than body art—I’m creating meaningful experiences that people remember.
I believe what sets me apart is my commitment to originality, connection, and storytelling. Every client deserves more than a copied design—they deserve artwork that reflects their individuality. That’s the experience I strive to create every time someone sits in my chair.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are so many ways to work with and support Henna by Tati!
Individuals can book private appointments for custom henna designs, whether they’re celebrating a wedding, pregnancy, birthday, graduation, festival, or simply want to treat themselves to a unique artistic experience. I also provide henna for private parties, corporate events, community festivals, and brand activations, creating an interactive experience that guests genuinely enjoy.
I love collaborating with photographers, event planners, wellness professionals, nonprofits, and fellow creatives who are passionate about bringing people together through meaningful experiences. Whether it’s hosting a pop-up, partnering on a styled shoot, or creating an immersive event, I’m always excited to explore creative collaborations.
One of the best ways to support a small business is by sharing it. Referring a friend, inviting me to your next event, engaging with my work on social media, or leaving a review after your experience all make a tremendous difference. Every conversation, recommendation, and share helps introduce my work to someone who may be looking for exactly what I offer.
At the heart of it all, I’m looking to create experiences that leave people feeling connected, inspired, and celebrated. If that vision resonates with you, I’d love to connect and create something beautiful together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hennabytati.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/hennabytati
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/hennabytati
- TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kchennabytati
