Our Story
Some love stories start with a glance across a room. Ours started up north in Alaska, big and wild, and took a decisive turn the moment Durango appeared on a 2025 road trip and stole our hearts.
Meet Clint and Natalie
We’re Clint and Natalie. We spent last winter here to see if the magic held (spoiler: it did), and this winter we moved back for good. Clint still works in Alaska in two-week stretches, then trades snowbanks for sunshine and comes home to Durango for his two weeks off. Colorado has always had a pull on him - he lived in Pueblo as a boy, and his family roots run deep in this state.
Natalie’s happy place is the kitchen. After years cooking as a chef on charter boats, opening a kitchenwares store feels like the natural next course: tools with purpose, pieces that last, and gear that makes you want to cook tonight.
We’re here for discerning home chefs, quality you can feel in your hands, and the simple joy of becoming part of this community.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Animas Apron.
Meet Ellie
Born and raised in Durango, Ellie returned home after several years spent living in Montana and abroad in Germany. Although she loved the experiences and perspectives gained along the way, Durango has always been home.
Ellie graduated from Colorado State University with double majors in Communication Studies and German Languages & Literature. With more than seven years of experience working in kitchens, Ellie has spent much of her life around food. She loves the creativity, connection, and sense of accomplishment that cooking brings, and is passionate about helping others discover that joy for themselves.
Ellie met Natalie through a mutual friend, and the two connected immediately. Inspired by Natalie's vision for Animas Apron and excited by the opportunity to be part of a growing startup, Ellie joined the team excited to gain hands-on experience while helping build something meaningful for the community.
As a lifelong Durango local and passionate cook, Ellie is excited to help grow a business that reflects her love of food, community, and learning.
She looks forward to welcoming customers into the store and helping them find tools they'll enjoy using for years to come.