By Laiba Saleem
What began as a childhood hobby has now grown into a small business for Leicester-based, self-taught henna artist Aneela Gondal, who balances creativity, motherhood, and her professional life.
Having been interested in creative arts from a young age, she explored sketching, painting and calligraphy long before henna became her favourite form of expression.
“Henna was always something I enjoyed doing,” she said, calling it a natural extension of her artistic interests.
Although henna is not her main job, the idea of turning it into a business came from a desire for flexibility.
After giving birth, she wanted to pursue something that allowed her to work around her own schedule.
The real turning point, however, came at her sister’s wedding.
When the bride was unhappy with the henna done by a professional artist, Aneela stepped in to help.
“I needed to save the day for her,” she said, recalling the moment that pushed her to finally take henna seriously as a career.
Despite several attempts to start professionally in the past, university commitments and a physically demanding job as a physiotherapist made it difficult to focus.
Now, with more time and determination, she feels ready to move forward.
As a self-taught artist, she describes her process as intuitive.
She often freestyles and allows her designs to flow naturally, whilst also accommodating clients who bring their own references.
Henna trends, she noted, are constantly changing, with Khaleeji-style designs currently in high demand.
For her, the biggest advantage of flexibility is the ability to work from home while caring for her one-year-old child.
Although she considers herself new to the business, her advice for others is simple: consistency.
“No matter what you do, keep making little efforts, and you will eventually see the results,” she said.
To find out more or book an appointment, go to hennabyaneelaa and DM to book.