The art of henna has a long history in countries from India, where henna plays an important part in a bride's pre-wedding ritual, to northern Africa, where it is believed to bring good luck and protection to mothers-to-be. Akiyo discovered henna more than 8 years ago; today, she is a respected henna artist whose work has graced the skin of clients and models at Bloomingdales, HBO, and Jill Stuart. She adorns everyone from bridal parties to mothers-to-be to professional belly dancers, drawing inspiration from her clients in order to create designs that make women feel beautiful and strong, inside and out.

Over the last 8 years, Akiyo has continuously explored an innovative approach to body art. Her latest creation, “Luxe Glow”, is a combination of the intricate patterns of henna and the shimmer of exquisite jewelry. More subtle than traditional henna, "Luxe Glow" imparts a luminous glow that brings out the beauty of both the fairest and the darkest of skin tones, as well as every skin shade in between. The effect is that of skin veiled in tiny, shimmering jewels, perfect for bringing out the graceful curve of a bride's neck.

Akiyo's henna and Luxe Glow designs are a unique way to commemorate important life events: a birthday, a wedding*, a bachelorette party, a job promotion, even a new child. With a pleasant demeanor and quick, steady hands, Akiyo deftly paints freehand designs for groups or individuals. Consulting with clients to discuss their preferred design elements, areas to highlight, and desired aesthetic effects, she identifies the perfect motif for each client, resulting in designs that range from subtle to striking. Akiyo‘s fashion textile design background cultivated in her a talent for designing henna that compliments the body and accents her clients' natural beauty.

*Bridal Luxe Glow, not Bridal henna, available in this offer

"Akiyo, your work on my hands and feet for my wedding was amazingly gorgeous. I (and many others) stared at my hands for hours admiring the artistry...I only wish I could do it all over again." - Stephanie
Read more testimonials

"Akiyo did henna for my birthday and I was on cloud nine, her designs are beautiful, original and elegant. It was the perfect Birthday treat that I did for myself." - Yelp Reviewer Lucie T., Kew Gardens, NY
Read more on Yelp

"She is an extraordinary henna artist and a superb professional. She arrives exactly on time, ready to get to work and does an amazing job of managing many, many people who want to be adorned with her incredibly beautiful henna artwork.” - Sharon M., Weston CT
Read more testimonials

"Dear Akiyo, I just wanted to say how much I appreciated having you...create masterpieces on my head during the time I was going through chemo. The summer was so hot, and wearing a wig, so awful...And people on the street admired the beauty and ingenious displays!" - Sara Kendall
Read more testimonials