Keyanna Bowen is a Maryland based interior photographer, designer, and blogger with a passion for inspiring others to create a home they love, no matter where they live. A graduate of Howard University and self-proclaimed “serial-penuer”, Keyanna has dabbled in everything from radio and writing, to real estate and social media marketing. It wasn’t until she started her blog, East & Lane, that she found her true passions, interior design and photography. What started out as a hobby of styling and photographing homes for her blog quickly turned into an exciting career. Keyanna now travels throughout the Maryland and Delaware coast as an architecture and interior photographer, photographing homes for realtors, builders, and fellow interior designers. In addition to photography, her passion to create beautiful spaces and desire to bring a fresh and modern design perspective to her hometown prompted her to offer interior design services. Inspired by neutral hues, organic textures, and simplicity, Keyanna’s light and airy yet layered and warm style embodies each project she designs. When she's not behind the lens or designing, you can find her enjoying the outdoors or renovating her rental, which she documents on her YouTube Channel.
What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?
Photo of Keyanna and her husband Daniel
For me, black history is in the essence of everything. From the cradle of civilization, to the construction of this Country, the roots and labor of our ancestors are the foundation of so much greatness. I love the pride and community that is felt and shared during this month, and every month.
Who Inspires You?
My husband is what inspires me the most. He also is a creative entrepreneur and has built a successful career in the music and videography industry, and also founded the music non-profit for youth, Symphony21.
After Image of Keyanna’s Kitchen renovation, click here to see the before shots.
What he has been able to accomplish and the barriers he has broken through (as a young, black man), is no easy feat. I’m constantly inspired by his faith, perseverance, commitment, work ethic, and dedication to our family. I feel so blessed to have him in my life.
What Is On Trend For You Right Now?
When I see the word trend the designer in me naturally thinks about what's new/fresh in home decor. But, there’s another trend that has been popping up more and more on social media and in conversations with my peers that I think is so important right now, and that’s the movement towards self care and mental wellness. As a millennial entrepreneur in the age of social media, there is so much comparison and pressure to grow your business and be successful that it’s easy to forget to take care of you! I can recall scrolling through my social media feeds and reading numerous captions from people proudly expressing how busy they are, or how they are constantly on the grind 24/7. Thankfully, now there seems to be a de-glamorization of that hustle+grind mentality, and a greater desire to create a lifestyle that makes wellness a priority.