This bridal beauty custom is rooted in thousands of years of history and represents love, fortune, and fresh starts.

      (Image credit: Audrey Hedlund) Welcome to Worldly Beauty, a quarterly series where we spotlight beauty products, ingredients, and customs tied to various cultures. To provide a comprehensive view, we include insights and suggestions from local experts and influencers. This column celebrates diversity, going beyond familiar territory to illuminate the beauty practices and philosophies that shape our world.

      (Image credit: Original art by Audrey Hedlund) Beauty is deeply personal, especially on (or just before) one's wedding day. Today, it’s common for brides to arrange multiple makeup trials, browse Pinterest for the ideal manicure, and even indulge in cosmetic procedures to look and feel their best on their special day. Whether it leans minimalist or maximalist, bridal beauty reflects and projects the essence of the individual behind the veil. Pre-wedding beauty customs vary significantly across cultures, regions, and family traditions. In Korea, preparations for the paebaek—a formal tea ceremony where brides traditionally have red dots on their cheeks—might be in order. In Italy, brides might prepare their hair and skin using beauty products infused with olive oil. In this inaugural wedding edition of Worldly Beauty, we delve into the tradition of mehndi—a South Asian prenuptial ritual where henna is applied to the bride's hands and feet, signifying joy, prosperity, good fortune, and new beginnings. This age-old custom, also practiced in the Middle East and North Africa, connects modern brides to a rich historical narrative. They may opt for designs inspired by previous generations, incorporate hidden initials into the intricate patterns, or collaborate on contemporary styles. Ultimately, it transcends mere bridal beauty—it’s a celebration marking one of life’s most significant milestones, and we are examining this tradition with insights from Priyanka Ganjoo, the founder and CEO of Kulfi Beauty.

      (Image credit: Vault Stock; Getty Images; Original art by Audrey Hedlund) Henna is a plant native to the tropical regions of South Asia, Africa, and Northern Australia. When the paste is applied to the skin, it temporarily stains it a deep reddish-brown, which fades over time. This practice has been part of mehndi (referring to both the ceremony and the designs) for thousands of years, often seen leading up to major holidays, festivals, and weddings. Ganjoo notes that before vows are exchanged, family and friends gather for the bridal mehndi ritual. Artists create intricate designs on the bride's hands and feet, with the bride typically receiving the most elaborate designs while close friends and family have simpler ones. Some mehndi ceremonies are vibrant, filled with music, dancing, and joy, while others are more intimate, focusing on blessing the couple before their union. “Each family has its unique way of celebrating, but it generally involves gathering to decorate the bride’s hands and feet with detailed henna designs amid loved ones,” Ganjoo shares. “For me, it symbolizes the anticipation of celebration. It's a moment when time slows for the bride, allowing her to sit still for hours while those nearest to her enjoy laughter, music, stories, and the excitement of this new chapter together. It’s not solely about the final design; it’s about the quality time with beloved ones.” Ganjoo mentions that a bridal mehndi session can last anywhere from three to six hours, depending on design complexity. While the aesthetic outcome is visually striking, the true charm lies in the experience itself, offering the bride and her loved ones a chance to unwind and be present with one another. “During this time, the bride is usually surrounded by friends and family... As is often the case, it can be an exceptionally busy time, so having to remain still while applying the henna naturally fosters a moment of presence and reflection.” Professional henna artists are often hired for traditional bridal mehndi, given that the intricate designs require skilled freehand techniques. However, it's also possible for individuals to apply it themselves using pre-made stencils and kits. “Typically, the paste remains on for several hours, with many brides opting to leave it on overnight for a richer stain,” Ganjoo explains. “Upon removal, the color starts as a vibrant orange before transitioning into a rich reddish-brown over the next day or two. The stain gradually fades over one to three weeks, depending on skin type, aftercare, and application sites. I’ve always appreciated how the design changes over time, showcasing its uniqueness and beauty at every phase.” Ganjoo emphasizes that each mehndi design is distinct—this individuality is fundamental. It highlights personal expression and creativity. “Many artists incorporate florals, paisleys, vines, mandalas, or symbolic motifs from generations past. Brides may also customize their mehndi by including special details, such as initials, places they've visited, or elements reflective of their relationship. It can be incredibly personal, allowing every bride to share her unique story.” Inspired by mehndi, Ganjoo developed Kulfi’s Mehndi Moment Blush