Crowd turns out for Monument's new hidden gem | The Tribune | gazette.com

The front door of Hidden Gems at 1445 Cipriani Loop in Monument.

Customers came to check out the wide variety of books by local authors in stock at Hidden Gems.

Owners Elisia and Dusty Smock (left) with local artist Cody (right) from Maker and Mutt after the store's soft opening on June 28.

A variety of local hand-made products attracted quite the crowd.

A new locally owned art shop, Hidden Gems, drew a packed house for its soft opening June 28.

Shoppers filled the store throughout the day, exploring booths run by local vendors who were on hand to answer questions about their handmade goods. Free snacks and drinks were also provided.

“It went amazing,” said owner Elisia Smock, who runs the store located at 1445 Cipriani Loop in Monument with her husband, Dusty. “It shows the support of the community.”

Hidden Gemz features a wide array of locally made products including art, clothing, accessories, tea, crystals, pet and baby supplies, stickers and more. A cozy “book nook” showcases fantasy, romance and mystery novels from Colorado authors, with a monthly book club in the works.

Smock’s journey into the art world began early. She first sold flower drawings for 25 cents at her childhood lemonade stand in Cleveland. In 2019, she began selling her art at the Old Colorado City Farmers Market, but she always dreamed of having a permanent space.

“I want a place that I can do a market every day — not just Saturday, not just in the summers,” she said.

The idea for Hidden Gems took shape late last year, inspired by the couple’s desire to spend more time together after becoming parents. Becoming a mother was what changed her mindset and gave her the push to open the store.

“We wanted to do something that not only helps us and our family, but also all of our friends and their family too,” Smock said.

Vendors at Hidden Gems rent space in six-month terms, which they can decorate and personalize. The shop currently houses 49 artists and 26 authors, all from Colorado. Artist space is currently full, though space remains for new authors.

“That’s the cool part—every single person in here is local from Colorado,” Smock said. “Everything is handmade. There’s nothing from China.”

Smock previously worked at Back East Bar and Grill next door and said opening a business in the same shopping center feels right.

“I know the area so well. And I know how loyal Monument people are,” she said.

The store is open from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. It is closed on Mondays.

Follow @hiddengems.colorado on Instagram or call (719) 493-8597 for more information on vendor space.