The moment I disembarked from the plane in Colorado during the vibrant summer of 1992, I experienced a profound internal awakening. It wasn’t merely the high-altitude air or the breathtaking hue of the bluest sky I had ever encountered. It was a deep, cellular transformation—a realization that, at some point in my life, I was destined to embrace these majestic mountains as my home.
Back then, I was pursuing my degree at Georgetown University, immersed in the fields of psychology and French, without a concrete vision for my future apart from graduating with a GPA that would make my parents beam with pride. Having spent my entire life in Washington, DC, I had never imagined that a single trip to visit my brother would alter my life’s trajectory forever.
After completing my college studies, I found myself navigating the complexities of disentangling from a toxic relationship while simultaneously falling in love with my future husband. I began to reevaluate my aspirations of becoming a French-speaking psychologist. Redirecting my ambitions toward a career in medicine—also at Georgetown—led me to temporarily shelve my dreams of calling Colorado home in pursuit of educational success.
When I finally introduced my husband to Colorado, I felt a wave of apprehension; would a Bronx-born lawyer perceive the same enchantment I had experienced in this quaint mountain town? To my delight, he not only felt its allure but also embraced every trail with enthusiasm, envisioning what life in this stunning locale could truly mean for us.
Embarking on Our Journey to Move to Colorado
In 2001, we took a leap of faith and purchased a piece of land, investing every penny we had—and even some that we had yet to earn. We referred to it as an “investment property” to soothe our apprehensions, yet deep down, we both recognized it as an investment in the life we dreamed of building together. While I completed my training in DC, we diligently saved and gradually, over a span of four years, began constructing our dream home beneath the watchful gaze of the majestic 13,000-foot peak, Mount Sopris.
Having lived here for 18 years now, my love for Colorado deepens with each passing day. This beautiful state continually inspires me to respect our planet by making even the smallest choices with mindfulness. It motivates me to prioritize my health and well-being, luring me outdoors with the enticing call of its endless trails. When I hear the soothing roar of the river, I am reminded to connect with my thoughts and embrace moments of tranquility.
As we celebrate our 12th year as a thriving Colorado business, I can think of no better way to honor our journey than by sharing the spotlight with other remarkable Colorado companies. My team and I have curated a list of local businesses; some are well-established, while others are small gems, some right in our backyard and others just a few miles over the mountains. Whether you reside in Colorado or are planning a visit, I hope this list inspires you to explore and appreciate the unique offerings of this incredible state!
Explore Innovative Colorado Clothing Brands
It seems like every Colorado resident treasures at least one pair of SmartWool socks—some of mine have lasted over a decade! This company has expanded beyond just socks to include a variety of products, from base layers to sports bras, all crafted from ethically-sourced wool. I feel fortunate to have modeled for them on several occasions!
Creators of functional mountain wear and top-quality canvas bags and backpacks.
Offering simple yet multifunctional clothing designed specifically for modern mountain men.
Founded by a passionate Colorado native, Shredly specializes in vibrant apparel tailored for women’s outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and mountain biking. Their products are made in the USA, with inclusive sizes ranging from straight to curvy, ensuring a perfect fit for every body type.
For a truly unique shopping experience that requires an in-person visit, check out this beloved company in Leadville. They produce the world’s most durable and incredibly cozy Polartec hoodies, crafted from fabrics made right here in the USA.
Offering organic cotton apparel suitable for both active adventures and leisurely days, this Boulder-based company focuses on creating simple yet sturdy designs made from fair-trade, organic cotton—what more could you want?
Founded by passionate athletes in Aspen, this high-end outerwear brand is dedicated to providing top-notch gear designed for the serious alpine adventurer who demands the best from their equipment.
Discover Outstanding Colorado Bicycle Manufacturers
A couple of years ago, I made the indulgent decision to purchase a Moots road bike, and it has proven to be one of the best investments of my life. Riding it feels like gliding on a stick of butter! They are true masters of titanium craftsmanship, producing beautiful and timeless bicycles.
These talented individuals were once our next-door neighbors—we shared a wall! They refer to themselves as “the bike nerds on the block,” which is an accurate description. And who better to build your next stunning titanium road bike or dual-suspension carbon mountain bike than true bike enthusiasts?
Explore Unique Colorado Home and Lifestyle Brands
If you find yourself with a free afternoon in Denver and are seeking a spontaneous adventure, visit this delightful design collective. You may leave with a beautiful rug, a vintage skirt, or even a refilled bottle of eco-friendly laundry detergent!
Delta Brick & Climate Co.
Delta Brick & Climate Company’s innovative vision revolves around utilizing methane from retired coal mines to fire sediment, resulting in stunning bricks and tiles. This approach not only addresses an environmental challenge (methane) but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen or bathroom!
Experience incredible floral and plant deliveries that go beyond standard botanical offerings, providing a touch of elegance to your living space.
If you’re planning a wedding on the western slope, these are the floral experts you need! They offer gorgeous, sustainable flowers to make your special day even more beautiful.
Our next-door neighbors create evocative, nature-inspired jewelry with a Bohemian flair. Their artisanal, handcrafted pieces encourage layering and stacking for a unique, personalized style.
Prioritize Your Wellness with Colorado Health and Wellness Companies
If you’re seeking a quick getaway that combines yoga, meditation, sound baths, crystals, nutritious food, and a fantastic spa experience, this destination is perfect for you!
If you’re heading to the Aspen area, this is an absolute must-visit. They offer engaging lectures, guided hikes, delightful dinners, and programs for kids—providing eco-friendly fun for the entire family!
Looking for a mountain retreat? Book a cozy cabin just up the road from us and soak in breathtaking mountain views that will leave you in awe. Luckily, their beautiful on-site hot springs will ease any neck strain or sore muscles from your adventurous hikes!
Producers of vibrant, high-quality CBD products, ranging from tinctures to refreshing sparkling water.
This is how all nail salons should feel—bright, clean, and healthy! They’ve expanded beyond Colorado and their website offers an array of fabulous colors along with a selection of their own skincare products.
Another partner brand based in Denver and beyond, this high-end retailer carefully curates the best in green beauty, selected by a former beauty industry executive. Their locations span across Denver, Charleston, Charlotte, and Raleigh.
Indulge in Delicious Offerings from Colorado Food & Drink Companies
Stock up on exceptional, organic, fair-trade coffee to elevate your day’s energy and enjoyment.
For a quick, nutritious snack on the go, these bars deliver a powerful nutritional boost before your next exhilarating adventure! The Lemon flavor is absolutely delightful.
Enjoy sustainably-sourced beans, roasted with care in Denver by passionate coffee enthusiasts, delivered to your door within 48 hours of roasting.
Fast food designed for athletes that skips the junk. My favorite snack for a long hike is the gluten-free salted caramel waffle.
Experience a ginger explosion with each sip! This has been my go-to chai for years.
Two Leaves and a Bud
Our favorite local tea company, located just up the road in Aspen. Their plant-based tea bags are commercially compostable, and they offer an extensive selection of mostly organic teas.
Chocolove
High-quality chocolate can be considered a nutritional supplement—almost! This Boulder-based company specializes in crafting beautiful, socially and environmentally responsible chocolate.
Big B’s
If you don’t have time to visit the orchard and pick your own apples, these folks will do it for you. However, if you do have the chance to drive to Hotchkiss, they offer a café, cider tastings, and live music during the harvest season.
They provide delicious food, craft cocktails, and divine chocolate.
That’s all I needed to know.
And speaking of our furry friends, your pups deserve high-quality food too! These are Alice and Pixie’s favorite treats—they hear the bag crinkle and come running!
Imagine a craft distillery combined with a modern mountain inn, and you’ll find yourself at Marble Distillery in our charming town. They feature five contemporary rooms above the tasting area, providing quick access to everything Carbondale has to offer. Plus, just look at their still—it’s the stuff of my wildest dreams!
This employee-owned brewery is committed to sustainability and is certified as a B corporation, crafting a wide range of beers that will tantalize your taste buds. Just reading their menu made my mouth water, and I’m not even a beer aficionado.
Experience whiskey, Colorado-style. This brand has a compelling story that resonates with the cowboy spirit within us all.
Outer Range Brewing
As someone who is gluten-sensitive, I don’t typically drink beer. However, every now and then, I crave one, and now I exclusively enjoy beers from Outer Range. After a grueling cross-country ski session, a friend introduced me to their Pastels hazy IPA, and it was one of the most delicious things I’ve ever tasted. While it’s not always available, I’m constantly on the lookout for it!
With love and a strong sense of Colorado pride from us to you,
