Meet Iyanna Pierre-Louis | Photographer, Playlist Curator, Videographer & Editor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Iyanna Pierre-Louis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Iyanna, we’d love to hear about a book that’s had an impact on you.
The Alchemist has changed my life. I initially read it in high school where it was required reading. There’s something about being told to read a book that never sits right with me, it takes the fun out of it. However, in 2017, a year I would identify as the beginning of my spiritual journey, I began to read self-help books and listen to podcasts. After listening to the Super Soul Sunday conversation where Oprah interviewed the author Paulo Coelho, I picked it up again and I was in awe. This book was so important during that time because I had just moved to Maryland and it was my first time living outside of Florida. I was starting grad school, had little to no money, and I had to discover who I was without the opinion of others. I had a chance to redefine myself, how I wanted people to see me, and what I wanted my legacy to be – much like the story of Santiago embarking on the journey to find his ‘Personal Legend.’ A quote that continues to stick with me is “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” For so long I was raised to believe that what I wanted was unachievable because the life I was born into, was the life that I would only know. Through my move, my subconscious caused me to question everything I was taught, how I was raised, and even my religion. The Alchemist used many notes of biblical truths but framed it in a way where the entity of God was inside of you and not something you must always chase to find. That idea was foreign, but it resonated with me much more deeply. I plan to read this book again later in life because I gather new life lessons each time I read it. I have a tattoo that says ‘Maktub,’ which means “It is written” and that helps me push past my fears and through obstacles because the life I so deeply deserve, is already mine.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Since I was a child, I always created movies in my head. Whether I am reading a book, listening to a song, or just daydreaming, my favorite medium is visual arts. It has always been my preferred way to communicate an emotion or a message. Many of the things I create integrate music because it pulls different backgrounds together. I am proud to say that in the content I have created for others, music will always be a given. Before I start a project, I always ask my client, “ What vibe are you going for?” This can be interpreted as, what emotion do you wish to evoke from your consumers? This question sets the foundation for how I will stage a photograph, align songs into a playlist, or create their video. My line of work is not easy because I constantly pull from inside of myself to create. I have to make sure that I am in a mentally sound place because if not, I can’t tap into my creative vault. However, I have learned to give myself grace and acknowledge the beauty of feeling. There will be days that I am in my creative bag and there will be days that I am just trying to get by. Both days are worth appreciating because at the core, I am listening to myself and acknowledging my needs. If I operate from a full cup then I can give from my overflow, I never want to feel depleted because that comes with resentment. Therefore, I listen to myself and if I need a break, it will only improve the content that I produce. All in all, I want people to know that nothing I have acquired is by luck or chance it all comes from knowing that I am deserving of everything I work towards. Through observing my way of life, I hope others will begin to feel the same because we all deserve the life we want, it’s our birthright.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It has been beautiful learning Miami in my adulthood. A boat day is a must because why would you not enjoy perfect weather on the water. I honestly go to chill hybrid outdoor/indoor spots and eat, so here’s a short list of things to check out.

NightLife (I don’t club)
– Brick
– Coyo Taco Wynwood
– Blackbird (Tuesday- Ladies Night, Sunday-Bashment)
– The Urban
– Da Cave
– The Wharf Miami

Brunch
– The Rusty Pelican
– Dunkanoo Jamaican Restaurant
– Honey Unhibited
– Barcode
– Victory Lounge
– Tap 42 Midtown
– Barsecco

Eats
– Dolores But You Can Call Me Lolita
– The Citadel
– STK
– The World Famous House of Mac
– Chef Creole
– Tootsie Cabaret
– Chick N’ Cone
– Astra Miami
– Barrita
– The Red Rooster Overtown

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would not be where I am if not for God. These past few years I have learned about and leaned on this entity in the purest way. I see him in every connection I make, every business deal or partnership, and in every waking moment…I am filled with gratitude. My parents have also pushed me to go for what makes me happy even though it’s scary. I appreciate my Line Sisters/Sorors for their continued love, my friends for their encouraging words and listening ears, and my siblings for investing and supporting me. I really want to name drop Tova because she really has been the motivation that I did not know I needed. Some people are placed in your life, and you have no idea the impact that they will make. I am thankful that I was blessed with her in my corner. She has encouraged me to start my own business, get my passport, live life fully, create a skincare routine, and start a spiritual practice. I am truly grateful for this divine connection.

Website: https://a-whole-vibe-productions.square.site

Instagram: iyannaplouis

Youtube: YannaWTV

Other: IG Foodie Page: Yanna.eatz Apple Music: yannawiththevibes

Image Credits
Pablo Raya and Iyanna Pierre-Louis