Get to know Elizabeth Smith's Aspen. The Oliver Smith Jeweler boutique director take us insider her Apline world.
Growing up among beautiful things—namely, exquisite jewelry—had a profound impact on Elizabeth Smith, daughter of Oliver Smith, founder of the eponymous jewelry boutique in Aspen. “This care for design and aesthetics is the driving passion behind everything we do,” she says. “In 2018, we had an opportunity to take over ownership of the Panerai boutique, and I jumped at the opportunity to move to Aspen full time. Last summer, we opened our second location—a branded Oliver Smith Jeweler boutique—specializing in our own jewelry designs and certified preowned watches.” She’s now the boutique director and loves how the brand designs for generations to come. “Every jewelry piece we create is designed and handcrafted in-house, ensuring that we can oversee the lasting quality. We’re inspired by the beautiful valley surrounding us.” Now that Smith lives here year-round, she’s come to appreciate the small-town feel of Aspen. “It’s a community of people who genuinely care about their home and each other. You don’t get that type of support everywhere, and any time you leave Aspen, it’s always the place that feels even better to come home to.” 400 E. Hyman Ave.
What’s your go-to outdoor activity? I recently bought an old Jeep Wrangler, so my favorite outdoor activity lately has been going for a drive. There are so many great short road trips around Aspen—up Independence Pass, over to Ashcroft or just enjoying the drive to a hiking or fishing adventure.
What about indoor fun? Nothing is more Aspen to me than the Living Room at the Hotel Jerome. Especially in the winter, it’s such a cozy, comfortable spot to post up next to the fire with a great glass of wine.
What’s a best-kept secret about Aspen you don’t mind sharing with the world? In the summer, one of my favorite places to visit is Weller Lake. It’s only a short drive up Independence Pass and is an easy hike to a truly stunning alpine lake. It’s a great place to take a picnic and relax in the warm summer sun.
How would you describe the Aspen fashion sense for women? What about guys? Aspen fashion draws upon the surrounding natural beauty. Dress can be casual and purposeful for all of the great outdoor activities here, but also rustic and cowboy chic. It’s fun to see how both men and women add different statement pieces and jewelry accessories to their outfits to make them look truly unique.
Any insider info about getting around and asking directions from locals? When I moved here, there were so many phrases I didn’t understand! Because it’s a small town, locals rarely use street names, so learning landmarks is important. The Wheeler Opera House, Wagner Park, Gondola Plaza and the Aspen Art Museum are good places to know to help you navigate the town.
Sunrise to sundown: Describe your perfect day in Aspen. Any great day in Aspen starts with a coffee and then heading outside. In the winter, I’d ski Ajax Mountain for a couple hours, followed by lunch outside at Ajax Tavern. The W rooftop is also a great spot for an après cocktail. If I have the energy, I’m going out to dinner somewhere in town, or maybe just curling up by the fire feeling satisfied with a great ski day!
Photography by: From top, photos: courtesy of Oliver Smith Jewelry; by Elle Logan
