Treasures Await at Westside Gem Heartshake Studios

BY KERI KAHN, Staff Writer, NORTH Magazine

Shoppers who set foot inside Old Colorado City’s Heartshake Studios are met with an inviting atmosphere that heightens the senses and pleases the eyes.

The queer-owned store at 2627 W. Colorado Ave. is technically a gift shop, but unique in Colorado Springs with its blend of Southwestern aesthetics, metaphysical gifts and ethically sourced goods from makers the world over.

“I really strive to order from other queer makers, from BIPOC makers, from more marginalized communities so we have a broader array of things to offer,” says store owner and curator, Kit Hutchinson.

The shop’s signature items, designed and produced by Kit, are wool-wrapped deer antlers with copper ranging from $55 to $78. You’ll also find art prints from $15 - $50, unique hook pillows and other textiles that won’t break the budget, candles, books, plants and self care items to gift yourself or another.

Kit Hutchinson, artist and owner of Heartshake Studios

An artist by nature and business owner through practice, Kit got started in retail back in California after becoming store manager for their first antler wholesale client. Now a Coloradan, Kit set up their store with many similarities, but very different price points.

“I’ve always been a really thrifty person and more into affordable stuff and so I try to curate things in a similar way but at more attainable prices for people,” they say.

Despite the affordability, inflation has been a challenge for Heartshake, especially considering that Hutchinson opened a second location geared toward children – Little Heartshake – in 2022.

Unique gift items curated in Heartshake Studios

“We’re not selling groceries or necessities. We’re selling fun things,” Kit says.

Heartshake has weathered the pandemic and inflation like a champ, but one theme remains clear: If you want local shops to survive, shop small.

With holiday spending in the rearview mirror and tourist season still several months away, February and March can be slow for local shops. Winter’s home stretch might be perfect for exploring the many curiosities of Old Colorado City, Manitou Springs or downtown.

Visit either location during First Friday Art Walks, held the first Friday of each month. Learn more about Heartshake at www.heartshakestudios.com, or their neighbors at www.shopoldcoloradocity.com .