Henna art workshops in rented venues

Friends planning a group activity, bridal parties, community and cultural groups, schools and youth programs, and adults looking for a creative night out.

A price per student per session or short course, plus private party bookings at a flat group rate. Students can buy cones or starter kits from you.

• Confident henna design and application
• Clear, patient teaching
• Respect for henna's cultural traditions
• Basic bookkeeping and scheduling

• Commercial general liability insurance, since students apply paste to skin. Check what your insurer and the venue require
• Use only natural henna paste. So-called black henna can contain chemicals that cause serious skin reactions, so check Health Canada guidance
• Ask about allergies and skin conditions, and consider a short consent form
• Teach with respect for the South Asian, Middle Eastern and North African traditions behind henna
• Check whether you need to register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and whether your city requires a business licence

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on the henna supplies and practice materials you provide, and any venue deposits. These are estimates, so start with small groups while you test demand.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $400 to $3,000, depending on ticket prices, group sizes and how many sessions or private parties you run. Hours start from about six a week.

Check commercial general liability insurance and what your insurer and venue require. Use only natural henna and check Health Canada guidance on so-called black henna. Ask about allergies, and check GST/HST and city business licence rules.