THE BRAIDING OF HAIR HAS A HISTORY which dates back at least 5000 years and has been used worldwide by many cultures. While most people are aware of the rich history of hairbraiding in African culture, few realize that Asian, Egyptian, European, and Native American people practiced this art as well. Ancient Aztec women braided strips of colored fabric through their hair, then wound the braids around the head in a style much like the one worn by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. French braiding was used in Renaissance times to maintain cleanliness when bathing was scarce. Today's braiding styles have evolved from many of these combined influences. Few people today are trained in the highly skilled field of the elaborate french-braiding found in North America's Renaissance Festivals. Ellen has been working with long hair in this tradition since 1997 and is now available for on-site hairstyling in the Maryland, D.C. and Pennsylvania area when not exhibiting at art fairs and themed festivals. This service is wildly popular with brides who choose medieval or traditional weddings and is perfect for dance recitals and gymnastic competitions, as well as prom and homecoming dances.