We had the good fortune of connecting with Alissa Moyse and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alissa, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
Leaving my father’s business (Almaza Jewelers) to focus solely on my business. He has been in business over 54 years and has built a wonderful name for himself and a loyal following. I was not easy to walk away from that.

I started Casual Carats in 2019 as a fluke. It was purely a passion project, turned side hustle, turned full-fledged business. Demand started picking up during the pandemic and I was burning myself out trying to work two jobs, be a wife as well as mom to three little ones. I decided to leave the family business in August of 2021, which was difficult, but it is what needed to happen for Casual Carats, my fourth baby, to grow.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Casual Carats™ is seeking to elevate everyday accessories with approachable, wearable, and affordable designs. My jewelry line consists mainly of silicone rings that are set with diamonds, gemstones, and various charms/jewel accessories. They are great for any active lifestyle, fitness, travel, medical professionals, and so much more. I have expanded the line to include smartwatch bands for your Apple watch, 14K gold and jewel-encrusted rubber bracelets that can literally be worn 24/7 (I never take mine off), and other pieces that are casual enough to be worn on a daily basis.  

I am having so much fun with Casual Carats as I feel there was a void in the industry for casual-couture jewelry and I could take this in so many different directions. The fine jewelry industry is fierce with competition, so I feel there with my business there is a lot of growth potential and untapped market share waiting to be reached.

I feel what sets us apart is that we are taking two totally different concepts and marrying them together. Silicone bands have become popular in recent years to work out in. We are adding a modern twist to them by setting diamonds, gemstones, and various charms to our rings.


Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am the worst person to ask this question to! I have three little kids and between that and Covid I have not kept up with the Houston scene! One restaurant I finally tried and loved was Doris Metropolitan-such a nice surprise to have Middle Eastern mixed with a steakhouse.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would undoubtedly not be doing what I am doing if it weren’t for my father. He always wanted my sister and I to follow in his footsteps and go into the jewelry business. He taught me everything I know about this business, encouraged me to become a Graduate Gemologist from GIA (Gemological Institute of America), and is one of my biggest cheerleaders. He is also one of my gemstone suppliers since he loves to collect gemstones and has a huge inventory from all his years in the business. He is the cutest, sweetest, and kindest person you could ever meet. I feel beyond lucky to have him as my father!

Website: www.casualcarats.com

Instagram: @casualcaratsjewelry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/casualcaratsjewelry/

Image Credits
Photos by Tarick Foteh Photography and Traci Ling Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX 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.