Local artisan co-op Hidden Gems sells storied handmade products and pieces

Dec. 15, 2025

At Elisia Smock’s Monument-based shop, Hidden Gems, Coloradans can support and discover local makers in an artist-run setting full of handmade goods.

The artisan co-op and boutique, which has been open since July 1, offers goods from more than 35 local artists, makers and authors.

Smock, the owner of Hidden Gems, thinks of her co-op as a community; she said she works to ensure makers can have a voice and share their stories.

“My job is to make sure that both our artists and our customers feel that connection every time they walk through the door,” she said.

Outlining the gems

Hidden Gems carries a range of goods, like artwork, home décor, vintage items and candles.

“It's truly an Etsy-like store but in-person, having a little bit of everything so you can find that perfect gift,” Smock said.

When it comes to bestsellers, customers appreciate pieces they don’t see elsewhere.

“Customers love discovering something unexpected, whether it’s a handmade statement piece, a one-of-a-kind art print, a unique home item or a locally written book they didn’t know existed,” she said.

Colorado creators interested in joining the co-op, especially those offering meaningful, original handmade products, can apply via this waitlist link.

Smock noted that the shop will welcome new vendors in 2026, and they are always looking for fresh work. To determine what is sold in the shop, she looks at quality, craftsmanship and the artists’ stories.

Hidden’s happenings

In addition to offering their curated inventory, Hidden Gems hosts several monthly events.

Smock shared that the shop hosts a book club meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. on the first Monday of every month.

They also have a permanent jewelry day on the first Friday of each month in partnership with Nova Gold.

According to Smock, Mika’s Dubai Chocolates also collaborates with the shop on pop-ups, one of their most popular recurring events.

“She brings her handmade, viral chocolates and offers opportunities for customers to pre-order specialty treats,” Smock said.

Less frequently, Hidden Gems will host author meet-and-greets and book signings, which Smock said are announced on their social media pages.

Smock’s co-op creation journey

Smock’s roles as the shop’s owner and an artist with her own brand allow her to contribute to every facet of the business’s operation, from designing displays to branding work and networking.

She has been creating art since childhood, which is when her dream of owning an art shop first developed.

As an adult, she started Medusa Botanica, her nature-centric jewelry brand. Her work can be found in several Colorado stores today, including Hidden Gems, but the first collaborative she joined was Eclectic Co.

She said her experience with this shop inspired her to start Hidden Gems.

“I fell in love with the collaborative spirit, the way makers support each other and the feeling of belonging to something bigger than my own work. It showed me what a healthy, thriving artist community looks like, and it inspired me to build a space where creatives could flourish together,” Smock said.

Smock’s professional arts experience taught her the value of supporting makers by giving them space to contribute “real creativity.”

“It keeps creativity, heart and personality right here in our community. When you buy something handmade or locally written, you’re not just picking up a product; you’re cheering on someone’s passion and helping their dreams grow. It’s the sweetest kind of support,” she said.

Her advice for anyone looking to start their own business is to do it with confidence, eagerness to learn, and a willingness to take baby steps in the company of supportive people.

“Starting a business is scary and a little wild, but it’s also one of the most rewarding things you can ever do. There’s something so special about being tired at the end of the day from working on something you once only dreamed about,” she said.

Hidden Gems shares their most up-to-date event and overall shop announcements on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Colorado Springs residents with Next Door accounts can also interact with Hidden Gems there.

Makers interested in joining Hidden Gems’ vendor waitlist can apply here.