In 2001, Ms. Ogura flipped through an art mag and paused at a picture that would become the catalyst for a new passion.   A henna design, with its bold and  elegant statement, had bewitched her artist’s eye.  With a background in fashion and textiles, this desire to learn the language of henna developed into what    her designs speak today – a fresh interpretation of wearable art.

Akiyo Henna, Inc. was founded in 2009, presenting an exquisite melding with traditional henna with a modern, luxe sensibility, easily adaptable to suit her client’s needs and sense of style, whether she be a South Asian or American bride or mother-to-be, someone wishing to cover a scar or embellish a bald head due to illness.

Through henna design, Akiyo strives to offer her client an experience of empowerment and self-acceptance through the celebration of the body.