About
Hello, friend...
My name is Valerie McKeehan. I am a sentimentalist, homebody, flower lover, author, newbie-gardener, vintage collector, Francophile, wife to my best friend who also happens to be my business partner, and mama to a sweet baby girl, Vienna (named after the Billy Joel song).
Most of my days are spent painting, drawing, illustrating, and creating (tea is always involved) out of my home studio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved to create and dream up ideas for things to make.
Lily & Val Started in the Kitchen
I was standing in the kitchen in 2012, newly married, wanting to create a piece of art to make our first home feel more homey. I decided to hand letter a chalkboard sign because I loved the nostalgic, cozy look. Little did I realize then that this humble chalkboard was the start of a new journey and Lily & Val was born shortly thereafter. Discovering that other people wanted to hang my art in their homes was a complete joy and thrill!
Through the years I've applied the same philosophy that started it all: create unique, meaningful products that I want to own and be surrounded by. I hand letter and illustrate each item, so you're sure to get something truly unique & made with lots of love.
My Inspiration
The products I create are driven by a sense of nostalgia...
When I think about my fondest memories, they involve scenes of cozy, simple, ordinary life! I grew up in rural Pennsylvania and my mother instilled in me a deep-rooted love of flowers and nature, which I am profoundly grateful for. I often look to happy memories of my childhood for inspiration. I believe it’s the small things of everyday living that mean the most and this sparks much of my work.
A few other random things...
- Frasier is my favorite TV show and I’ve watched the entire series over a dozen times through.
- I love Mister Rogers and everything he stood for. Rediscovering him as an adult has brought me such life and his quotes bring me comfort.
- Despite my nostalgia for food, I’m not the best in the kitchen. Mak may have called me Mrs. Doubtfire at some point.
- The name “Lily” is not named after a person, but a nod to my mom and our shared fondness of flowers.
Now that we’ve become more acquainted, lets stay in touch...
Lily & Val is a small team in Pittsburgh, PA. If you have any questions, we would love to answer them or help in any way we can: hello@lilyandval.com.
For my creative experiments, what’s currently inspiring me (usually flowers), everyday living, and a baby photo popping in here and there follow me on Instagram @valeriemckeehan.
For shop news, new products, promotions, and blog updates follow @lilyandval
Thank you for letting me share part of my heart and world with you!