We had the good fortune of connecting with Iyana (Yoni) Laws and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Iyana (Yoni), is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
My favorite affirmation is: Self love is the well we draw from to pour into others. This is my personal reminder to make sure I fill my own cup first. So that I’m able to give to others from my surplus Vs deficit.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Yoni Love LLC was born out of my own intense need for self care after enduring a miscarriage in 2016.  A major part of moving through that loss included creating & wearing Waistbeads.  I’d worn Waistbeads for a couple of years at that point…but I’d never personally made any.

I’m always fulfilled when supporting and nurturing others. So, naturally, my first strand of Waistbeads weren’t made for me but for a loved one.  Sky blue beads (her favorite color) adorned with Rose Quartz & Amethyst for fertility and protection.  After showing a picture to my Sister Circle…one requested to purchase a strand as a gift for an upcoming wedding…and the rest is history.

I discovered that sending healing womb energy to others, by way of waistbeads, was vicariously healing my own.

I believe that’s what sets me apart. My offerings are truly labors of love; an extension of my own self care and personal growth. Waistbeads & Reiki are the medicine I offer to the world because I have successfully used them to usher healing into my own life.

While entrepreneurship hasn’t always been easy, my conviction to support others along their own journey of healing & self acceptance is what makes it easeful.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Cool question!

Food/drinks:
Calabash Tea. Dr Sunyatta will ask “how may we heal you today?”. Based on your answer, trust them to whip up the perfect brew.
Soul food: Oohs & Aahs, Horace & Dickies
Smoothies: Drink Spizzy

Sights:
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Explore the National Arboretum
Sunset walks around the Tidal Basin or Hains Point…a moment

I’ve heard really great things about Swahili Village bar & restaurant. So, this would be a nice first for the both of us to visit for happy hour! Then catch a show at the DC Improv.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d have to shout out the black women in my life. There are too many to list, starting with my mother, over to my girlfriends etc. From day one, they are who have been the most encouraging and supportive in ways I didn’t even know I needed. From patronizing my business, to gifting me with seed beads, allowing me to pop up at their own businesses etc. Truly the wind beneath my wings.

Website: www.TheYoniLove.com

Instagram: @yoniLoveWaistbeads

Twitter: @yoniLove_

Facebook: Yoni Love: Intentional Adornments

Other: Let’s also connect on TikTok @yoniLoveWaistbeads

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.