Today we’d like to introduce you to Carissa Carter.
Carissa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in New Orleans, LA. I moved to Houston in 2005 due to Hurricane Katrina. Within five to six years, I earned two Associate Degrees from Houston Community College and my BSN at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Even while working at some of the top hospitals in the country, my spirit was telling me there was more for me. After completing a travel assignment in North Carolina, I decided to leap into the world of entrepreneurship. I was horrified. I knew my passion encompassed my strong cultural ties to my home, New Orleans. I started selling shaved ice. But to whom? I picked up my cell phone and I did it the old fashioned way: Cold calling and emailing. My first customer base was and still is Woodlands-Market Street. As of today, I’m currently a vendor with Memorial City Mall, have participated at Houston festivals, and we now have a mobile food trailer.
Has it been a smooth road?
My main challenge started with as many other entrepreneurs can agree with, financial concerns. Also, my career as an ICU Registered Nurse takes a great deal of energy. In addition to scrounging up the energy to workout as well as mommy/ son time with my 12 year old, Christopher, let’s say, 24hrs FLY BY! Secondly, a lack of knowledge. Within the past year, I have developed relationships with other entrepreneurs who have offered valuable lessons. With owning and managing my food trailer, I’ve learned the process of sales, permits, contracts, liability insurance, equipment, etc. I’ve received a lot of support and positive feedback from people, which is priceless.
Tell us more about the business.
We are delivering the true flavor of New Orleans in every snowball, daiquiri and entrée we sell. With names like “Bourbon Street Blast” and Fancy “French Quarter,” our customers can “taste the culture” of New Orleans. Our syrup is Louisiana made with gluten-free sugar cane. Our customers can choose classic candies like Sour Belts or top their drinks with fresh fruit. Our daiquiris encompass the delicious Texas Blends mixes that enhances sweetness without the gluten! For the kiddos, we have our frozen slushies. Our entrees include but are not limited to, our traditional Seafood Gumbo and classic Red Beans and Rice. I’m excited and proud to serve the people of Houston and the surrounding area. We are here to color and fun to this Texas heat!
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
We have been confirmed at some of the top festivals in Houston for 2020. We are currently finalizing a permanent location for our food trailer. We are in the early stages of organizing a kiosk at Memorial City Mall. Within the next five years, our goal is to open a restaurant and sports bar.
Contact Info:
- Website: Welcometothebigeasy.com
- Phone: 8323818882
- Email: bigeasydaiquirifrozentreats@gmail.com
- Instagram: BigEasyDaiquiriFrozenTreats
- Facebook: BigEasyDaiquiriFrozenTreats
Image Credit:
Mill Ticket Media
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