Elisia Smock’s Colorado Favorites: Featuring five women-owned shops in five cities
Dec. 5, 2025
Note: Direct quotes were edited for typos, to observe AP style guidelines and to fit the listicle structure.
Elisia Smock, the owner of Hidden Gems in Monument and a local artist, recognizes that local businesswomen help each other thrive.
For this week’s “Favorites” entry, she mentioned a few female-led businesses with whom she shares meaningful connections.
1. Eclectic Co.
Eclectic Co. has two locations in Colorado Springs that feature “local, sustainable and handmade” work from a curated lineup of vendors.
Smock has a special connection with Eclectic Co. that goes beyond selling her work.
“This was the very first storefront I ever joined, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. It was my first big risk as an artist and the beginning of everything for me. I still love being there and supporting the incredible community they’ve built.”
The shop has a list of all the vendors from whom they carry goods on their website.
2. Fern & Skye
According to their website, Fern and Skye in Denver is an art gallery and shop that offers work from more than 60 local makers.
Customers can shop their stock online and in-store. Their online store features clothing, original and printed art pieces, household décor, accessories, like stickers and more, all handmade.
Their physical location also offers workshops focused on self-care and decorative creations.
Smock described owner Lauren McLaughlin as “the sweetest human,” and shared a description of the atmosphere customers can expect when they visit.
“The whole space feels warm, creative and welcoming. It's one of those places that instantly inspires you.”
3. Gleneagle Candle Co.
According to their website, Gleneagle Candle Co. is named after their location, and they are a handcrafted candle business that began in 2020.
Customers can choose from a wide selection of wax-based products, many of which are available in a range of scents. Items include wax melts and associated accessories, dough bowls, tealights and candles of all shapes and sizes.
Their physical location also hosts candle-making workshops and is offering one that’s Christmas-themed on Dec. 13.
Smock described Nicole Mendoza as “one of the most admirable people” she knows and complimented her and her shop.
“She is a warrior in every sense of the word and endlessly generous with her time and heart. Her shop is beautiful, but she is truly the light in that space.”
4. Plant Mamas Garden
Smock spoke about this Fountain-based small business in detail and expressed happiness about getting to support local, women-owned businesses like it.
Courtney Tenner runs the “beautiful, pink, feminine shop filled with gorgeous plants, vintage clothing and handmade items from Colorado makers. It’s such a charming and uplifting space and another incredible woman-owned business I adore supporting.”
According to their Facebook page, Plant Mamas Garden sells clothing, accessories, a range of plants and decorative arrangements, including holiday baskets.
The shop also hosts events, like plant swaps, bingo games, clothing sales and plant care classes.
More information on Plant Mama Gardens’ offerings is available via their Facebook page.
5. Calvert’s Mini Market Co.
According to their Facebook bio, Calvert’s Mini Market Co. in Palmer Lake primarily sells locally-sourced grocery products.
Their inventory features a lineup of fresh and packaged items spanning all food groups. They also have dietary restriction-friendly items for those who need them.
Smock spoke highly of Stephanie Calvert, the shop’s owner, and expressed gratitude for her support and work.
“Stephanie has been a cheerleader for me from the moment I announced Hidden Gems. Her support has meant so much. Her shop features local produce and handmade goods, and she brings such heart and community spirit to everything she does.”
