A word from the Host
I am Huda Naeem, the founder & the lead Henna artist of Hennaz Art and also the organizer of SEHN for the last 5 years. Many ask, how did Sisters Eid Henna Nights or better known as SEHN form. Here is my story.
With the growth of @hennazart, the need for assistance became apparent. Just before Eid, I would prepare henna cones, invite talented artists to my home, and together we would create intricate designs for hours. During these sessions, many clients expressed a desire to shop while receiving henna services. It made perfect sense, as this time is often spent completing last-minute Eid shopping and getting your Eid Henna and what better way to get both done in just one place.
Truthfully, I've never felt comfortable applying henna in crowded bazaars or salons with men present, especially on the night before Eid. I've always longed for a serene gathering exclusively for women, where I could apply henna art along side fellow passionate artists. Sadly, such an event eluded me for years. Thus, I resolved to organize a "women's only" event, celebrating Eid henna and offering a unique shopping experience for sisters just before Eid-ul-Fitr.
In 2018, I secured a community hall to accommodate 200 women and curated a lineup of talented female entrepreneurs for our first Sisters Eid Henna Night event. Despite initial anxiety, I prayed for success, and with each passing day, Allah provided support through my family, friends and from sisters offering assistance.
The event exceeded my expectations, with over 450 attendees surpassing our initial estimate of 200.
Through this gathering, I witnessed the unity and enjoyment shared among Muslim women in a comfortable, sister-centric environment. It transcended mere exposition, evolving into a vibrant sisterhood hub.
The 2018 event was such a successful event that I decided to hold SEHN every year and use this platform to support small business women and women entrepreneurs. In 2019, SEHN was held with a very small ticket price at a banquet that could accommodate a women only staff, kitchen accessibility for our food vendors and a nicer experience for the attendees. I also reserved a secluded area for women folk to pray as our event is held in the last 10 days of Ramadan, the time when most Muslims spend their time in indulging in more virtues deeds and Ibaadah (worship), our little Masjid (mosque) section was created. I wanted to make sure that SEHN became a reflection of what I started from my little apartment and held the same values that I related with.
Last year, in 2023, we were thrilled to host for 2 days with 1400 attendees at SEHN, and each year, the event continues to expand. This year, we anticipate an even greater turnout for our "Sister's Eid Henna Night (SEHN)" event, InshAllah as we're incredibly fortunate to hold SEHN over a weekend, promising an even larger audience. We anticipate at least 2000 women, and we're fully prepared for the occasion.
With a team of 25 professional henna artists and 60 vendors from the greater Chicago area and neighboring states, I'm excited to offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you beaming from ear to ear this Eid, inshallah.
To accommodate this, I've secured a larger venue at Waterford Banquets in Elmhurst, IL. I would love to see you be a part of this event. Come and support your local small Muslim owned women business owners while enjoying the commodity of SEHN Sisters Eid Henna Nights & Eid Shop.
I look forward to welcoming you to SEHN2024 and having you be part of our journey, InshaAllah!
With warm welcoming wishes,
Your sister,
Huda Naeem
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