I was in desperate need of a henna tattoo to complete the perfect Halloween costume; my boyfriend and I were going to be Bollywood royalty. I had everything I needed: a sari, lots of gold and jewelry but was missing an essential part of the look. So, I googled “Henna + Vancouver” and made an appointment with the first hit. Well, I was shocked to stumble across such a hidden gem in our city…
Indian Brow and Henna Boutique is located at 1104 West Broadway and specializes in custom henna designs, facials, and brow tinting, threading, shaping, and waxing! They use original, organic Shahnaz and Ayurvedic products which have large roots in Indian heritage. The salon is ran by a sister-duo, Hema and Rupal who both greeted me as I walked through the doors into their lovely boutique. I was offered a cup of chai as I waited for my appointment time. Already I was liking this place! The chai was absolutely amazing. I am not sure if I just hadn’t had chai in a long time or if I was simply used to syrupy knockoffs but this chai was a real treat. After I finished my chai it was time for my facial! Hey, I can’t go to an Indian boutique and have only one treatment.
I was led into the back to change into a robe and was then guided and made comfortable into a salon chair. The lady performing my facial was very kind, making sure I was relaxed and content at all times. She also explained an Indian facial varies slightly from previous ones I have had. What I found helpful was that she told me what she was doing with every step. I got steamed, white heads came out, cucumber and mint lotion went on, a mud mask was involved. It was a fabulous experience with such a professional lady. During the procedure, the beautician asked me questions about myself and gave me tidbits about her life, about how she came to Canada and how long she had been practising Indian facials. Honestly, I felt like I was at the spa with a girlfriend! The end result of my facial was amazing. My skin was so soft and clean I was thankful I was getting henna done next or I would have ruined it by touching it so much!
Next, Rupal gave me my first henna tattoo. She first cleaned my hand, oiled it with a scented ointment, and made sure it was dry. She then took out a tube of henna, not unlike a tube of toothpaste but with a pointy end and started drawing away free-handed! I panicked slightly, and told her “Not too big!” She smiled at me and nodded her head. She asked which direction I would like the tattoo to take and if there was anything I would like included in the design. At this point I was amazed and excited to see her talent! She also asked me several questions about myself and was very friendly. She had not been in Vancouver for a year. Again, I felt like I was experiencing the spa with a girlfriend. When she was completed, Rupal told me how to care for my henna and the best ways to make it last longer. She also wrapped it and made sure it was dry enough before I left. I absolutely love the job she did and have received many compliments on the work.
Indian Brow and Henna Boutique is a must try for anyone looking to get a unique and affordable experience. I was so happy with the service, quality, and atmosphere of the spa boutique. Hema and her staff are wonderful hosts and make you feel so comfortable, catering to your every needs! I told them about my Halloween costume and they also couldn’t be more excited for me. I am definitely going to have to pay these ladies another visit. Maybe, just maybe I will let them get their hands on my perfectly arched eyebrows.
Written by: Micaela Monk
