Today we’d like to introduce you to Grace Feray
Hi Grace, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Throughout my life, I’ve picked up countless hobbies, but none of them ever seemed to stick. This business was born out of my desire to commit to something long-term and learn the ins and outs of running a business.
During college, however, this initiative took a backseat until I stumbled upon the Austin Creative Reuse center, a shop that sells secondhand craft supplies. There, I found a box filled with old, forgotten jewelry packaging from luxury brands. Seeing those discarded boxes made me realize just how wasteful the jewelry industry can be in the name of luxury. If not for Austin Creative Reuse, they likely would have ended up in a landfill.
That moment changed everything for the business. I’ve always been passionate about thrifting and supporting the local community through these avenues, and I saw an opportunity to merge that passion with my love for jewelry. That’s when this business evolved into something bigger, a jewelry brand that prioritizes sustainability by upcycling and giving new life to forgotten materials. Moya Moya Studios loosely translates to “a hazy, uncertain feeling,” like a mist that lingers in the air. It reminded me of how I felt when I started this journey, unsure but filled with a deep desire to create something meaningful.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Creating a business based on recycled materials came with its own challenges, especially when it came to sourcing enough materials to sustain production. Finding a reliable source and supplier was crucial to both my mission and the business itself.
I quickly found myself relying on Austin Creative Reuse, along with mystery jewelry bags sourced from various thrift stores around Austin. Beaded work has been my main specialty, but I’ve been exploring other areas of jewelry making that align more closely with my goals and are easier to source.
One new direction I’m excited about is transforming thrifted ceramic plates into pendant necklaces using a more advanced silversmithing process. Not only will this allow me to expand my jewelry-making skills, but it will also provide a more consistent and unique source of materials. This new approach feels like the perfect evolution for Moya Moya Studios as I continue my commitment to sustainability and reuse.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m very proud to be a company that is a bit of a mouthful when it comes to what sets me apart from others. I specialize in handmade, one-of-a-kind, fine-found jewelry. No two pieces of mine will ever be identical, and I’m really excited to promote that aspect of my work.
I think a lot of people are hesitant about the idea of mismatched earrings, but I see a certain beauty in imperfection. There’s something special about pieces that aren’t perfectly symmetrical or mass-produced. They have character, a story, and a uniqueness that makes them truly one of a kind.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned so far is to never be afraid to put yourself and your brand out there. Creating a small business comes from passion, and I’ve learned to never shy away from or feel insecure about that passion for something creative.
For me, selling my products is one of the hardest parts of the business, but I’m incredibly grateful for all the people I’ve met along the way. I genuinely love meeting customers who connect with my vision for the company or share a similar passion. Every opportunity I’ve had has come from taking chances and putting my brand out into the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://moyamoyastudios.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moyamoyastudios/
