OO! I've been wondering the same things!

I think word-of-mouth is the foundation of any good self-business! I'd suggest doing henna on any of your friends that will let you, do it for free...consider it advertising...then stock them up with your business cards... try www.vistaprint.com for tons of options in free business cards (you just pay shipping) I've used them for years for printing. Without a doubt, your friends will be out and about, work, school, grocery shopping, at the beach, the library, out to eat, around town, and everywhere they go someone is likely to say, "wow, awesome henna!" or "what is that?" or "Who did your henna?!" Obligate these friends to give your card whenever they're asked. They're pay is the free henna they get from you! ; )

Start keeping your ear open for community events, parties, cultural shows, art shows, bridal showers, and other celebrations. Offer your card and a quick bit on what you do and how fun it is for enhancing joy, beauty, and the power of womanhood. (Of course it doesn't hurt to have your own henna on you to display!) Be enthusiastic and personable.

Do a girls night out for all your friends...have a sleepover, or late night with food, music, a Bollywood movie, and maybe a mini belly dance lesson... an ethnic theme. Offer to do henna for a fee for any interested friends. Offer to do the same next time they have a girl's night.

Get a website. Today a website is vital to a thriving business! Make one yourself using MySpace or Blogger, or on your own. I also love to do small business designs for women (www.bahjahdesign.com) but I got a waiting list at least until fall, but I'd love to do a henna site!!

Build a portfolio. Get a nice photo album or scrapbook and start getting pics of any henna work you do. Helpful to show anyone interested in having a design done, to get a feel for what styles they like. Display on your website as well to catch attention of anyone who looks up your site off a business card.

Post flyers and/or your card at the bulliten board at neighborhood ethnic restaurants, grocery stores, masjids (mosques), and any ethnic clothing stores near you. A friend of mine recently got married and got her wedding sari at the local ethnic boutique. She just asked the cashier if they knew anyone that did bridal henna and the lady gave her a couple cards. Make sure they have your card.

In a nutshell...network!

Hope that helps!
Salihah