Meet Neha Assar

We were lucky to catch up with Neha Assar recently and have shared our conversation below.

Neha, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

I get my resilience from personal experiences. Overcoming past challenges have helped me build resilience and have taught me how to handle adversity affectively. I have a strong support system with family and friends that have shown so much love. I do my best to maintain a positive mindset and stay focused on my goals. I also do my best to adapt to changing circumstances.

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Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am a Los Angeles based henna artist that focuses predominantly on bridal henna. I have been adorning brides since 1994. Bridal henna is something that sparks joy in me because I spend a full 8 hours adorning one person. I learn about the couple’s love story and customize the entire bridal piece to by adding personalized elements. While these elements are drawn in, they don’t stick out like a sore thumb. They are blended in a way that each element would have to be pointed out. Hearing my clients explain each element to their family and friends makes me smile, They get their very own, one of a kind bridal henna piece that is unique to their story.

People would often approach me and state they wish they could get married again just to get their bridal henna done by me. Henna is something that is applied to the skin and disappears in a matter of weeks. I thought about ways to memorialize this ancient art and incorporating it into one’s daily lifestyle, rather than waiting for a big event to apply henna. I wanted my art to be a part of a morning coffee or an afternoon tea. I wanted my henna art to make a statement on the back of a jacket or on a fedora hat. Just like that, my product line was born. From shoes to glassware, to wine and fragrance bottles, to furniture, my henna art adds a level of elegance in ways that most people can’t imagine possible.

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If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Having a growth mindset has had a huge impact on my journey. In India, there is a henna artist at virtually every restaurant or street corner. In order for me to take my art to the next level and remain relevant requires me to believe in the ability to improve and develop through effort and learning.

Critical thinking is also very important. The ability to analyze situations objectively, assess various perspectives, and make well-informed decisions. This helped me to problem solve along the way and really tailor my services and goods for my clients.

Self-Discipline is another huge one. After years of practice, I possess the ability to stay focused and motivated, even when faced with distractions or difficulties. This involves setting personal standards and adhering to them consistently.

By cultivating these qualities and skills, individuals can navigate their journeys more effectively, overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.

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Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client is someone that has a true appreciation for art. I could be doing the smallest henna piece for them, but if they can see what goes into the entire process of this ancient art form and appreciate it, it is more than enough for me. I like to give my art where it is adored and admired. I want people to feel moved by it. I truly believe that the application of henna is a transfer of energy. I put my heart and soul into giving it so I can only hope it is received the same way.

Contact Info:

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Image Credits

All images provided have been captured by Neha Assar via an iPhone

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