Today, The Platinum Mask channel would like to introduce Myda Ali for a conversation.
Hey! Please explain to the audience what you’re promoting.
My name is Myda and I am a self-taught professional Mehndi/Henna artist based in Dallas, TX with experience of almost 15 years. I specialize in South Asian Bridal Henna but also cater to group events, birthday parties, corporate events, or “just-because” private appointments. I can travel nationwide, and also love to collaborate with other creative artists in the fashion/beauty industry.
What was the biggest obstacle in your journey and how did you overcome it?
I think my biggest obstacle in my journey was, sometimes still is, my confidence or, lack thereof. It was going outside of my comfort zone to put myself and my work out there for the people to see. As an introvert, it takes a lot of energy and effort to be open to the public eye and their opinions. With the right and positive support system – family, friends, husband – it certainly became easier. I know that I have a strong safety net to rely upon, who will always motivate and encourage me and give me the boost anytime I need it.
Were there any major challenges due to the covid-19 pandemic? How did you overcome them?
Covid-19 actually served as a blessing in disguise for myself. I was able to take the downtime in 2020 as an opportunity to gather my content, create my social media pages, and really map out the direction I wanted to take. I was able to book a few brides during that year who opted for smaller, intimate weddings, and this allowed me to start slowly, know where my weaknesses lie, and work on improving them. I am, to this day, extremely grateful to those initial brides that gave me the opportunity to start somewhere.
What was your upbringing like and did you discover your passion early on?
Henna was always a big part of our traditions as each year we would be looking forward to getting henna done for our holiday, Eid. My mother would create beautiful patterns on my hands the night before, and I would be so excited to wash it off the morning of Eid and flaunt my designs. Seeing her create beautiful flowers and motifs, I always doodled them and tried to practice on paper whenever I got the chance. When I was about 15 years, I began to practice with a henna cone. I always knew I enjoyed creating these designs but I don’t believe I discovered it as my passion, or even as my talent, until much later when my family and friends began to push me to pursue doing it for “clients.” I feel that for me everything was planned out perfectly and I began to do this professionally at a time when I truly felt ready.
Were your friends and family supportive of your mission?
Everyone around me has been extremely supportive of my business. They’ve been proud of my work and the progress I’ve made, and that really keeps me going and encourages me to continue to improve and do bigger and better things. This support system makes sure that I slow down and take breaks as necessary to rest and recover as the work can become physically tiring and exhausting.
Any links you want to share for the viewers?
