Spotlight on Business

By Staff Desiree (Desi) Faraci announces collaboration with First Colorado Land Office (FCLO) based in Salida, Colorado as a Real Estate Associate Broker.  She will be conducting home and land transactions specializing in the Crestone region and Saguache County.  Additionally, Desi plans on providing property management services to Crestone and the Baca Grande Subdivision in a community that endures challenges with long-term rentals. With a creative entrepreneurial spirit, Desi has always enjoyed exploring self-employment endeavors. At her 4th generation family Italian restaurant in New York, Desi learned how to run a business from an early age and realized entering the workforce...

By Lori Nagel. While Bryan Brattin just started baking at Cloud Station in January, he is far from being new to the kitchen. “My grandmother had me helping her as soon as I could stand upright and be more help than a hindrance,” he laughed. “She probably started even before then, honestly! So, it’s been a passion of mine for a long time.”  An email from resident Philip Tarlow to The Cloud Station illustrates Brattin’s addition to the Cloud’s offerings. “…your new baker is baking the BEST, tastiest, beautifully baked bread we’ve ever had.  Congratulations to you for hiring him and...

By Lori Nagel The struggle for healthy, prepared and affordable food in Crestone is real and it’s not uncommon to overhear local conversations about it on any given day. Those options have recently expanded, thanks to the Ruby Rose Bakery at the Hooper Junction Sinclair gas station (11704 CO-17, Hooper), a short 25-minute drive from the town of Crestone.  There have been rumblings around the community about that terrific new bakery and restaurant, but what many don’t know is, they have healthy, nutritious to-go meals as well.  Angelica Quintana, head chef and baker at Ruby Rose, has enjoyed the culinary arts for many...

By Jennifer Eytcheson. Nestled in the turquoise-painted octagonal building on Hwy. 17 — where T-Road leads to Crestone — is Thrift Horse Moffat, a resale store that defies its size.  Beyond the racks of women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, shoes, home and kitchenware, books, CDs, and albums, it offers something unique — free socks, anytime. While the shop currently doesn’t have room for hanging children’s clothing, there will be periodic “box dig days” for kids’ clothes.  For owner Tina Raiford, Thrift Horse & Company is more than a business; it’s a platform for community support.   Raiford’s journey into entrepreneurship began unexpectedly with...

By: Amber Travis-Ballinas & Jennifer Eytcheson A hidden gem of creativity and craftsmanship has emerged in our little town. Fox Den Studio, led by Kathryn “Dewey” Spence, is a haven for artists and art enthusiasts alike. With a focus on custom hats, unique art, clothing, and a vibrant community space, Fox Den Studio is redefining the traditional art gallery experience. Dewey Spence, a Professional Certified Tailor and Milliner, brings her expertise and passion to Fox Den Studio. With over twelve years of experience in designing and producing wearable art, she is a master of her craft. From custom-made clothing and historical...

By Jennifer Eytcheson Crestone’s art district is about to get a little brighter thanks to the near-future opening of Luminaries, a new studio-boutique. Owner Shoshannah Asha is passionate about art, sustainability, and community, and Luminaries is the perfect combination of all three. Located in the Sangre de Cristo building, Luminaries will offer a variety of one-of-a-kind items including art and clothing, reflecting Asha’s commitment to the environment. Luminaries is an exciting addition to Crestone’s art scene, offering a special shopping experience. Keep an eye out for the grand opening and don’t miss the chance to visit this new gem in town. Here’s...