Elemento: An Eclectic and Unique Shop that Supports Community

Since 2010 Angola, Indiana has seen a renaissance of sorts. During the 2008 economic downtown in the U.S., Angola was at the beginning of its journey to revitalize its historic commercial district.

Since 2010 Angola, Indiana has seen a renaissance of sorts. During the 2008 economic downtown in the U.S., Angola was at the beginning of its journey to revitalize its historic commercial district. By 2010, the majority of its sidewalks were rebuilt, and new businesses began to fill its empty buildings. It is also the year that Daniel Diaz-Moreno and his partner Jorge Ruiz began their journey from Chicago to eventually operate two successful shops located in the heart of downtown Angola. Today’s focus is on Elemento.

Eclectic is a good word to describe Elemento. Immediately upon entering their Italianate historic building, is a large table filled with an array of polished stones and crystals, sorted by kind, in acrylic boxes and glass bowls. The shop is scented by a small tower of bundled herbs, known as smudge sticks, and a table full of jars containing a variety of incense, which doesn’t overwhelm. There is a sense of openness with its large windows, high ceiling, and spaciousness. Much of the area of the shop is filled with work by local artisans. Diaz-Moreno and Ruiz strive to ethically source their products. Pottery, paintings, prints, jewelry, and other unique handcrafted items fill their shelves. “We kind of are a small business incubator.”, says Ruiz. “Our goal is for them to be able to be out on their own with their own shops.” Elemento also offers candle-making classes and in the past has scheduled shopping events that have included free massages. This is a shop where visitors can not only find a unique gift and experience but where their purchases will be supporting local area artisans and their communities.

Elemento was a business concept Diaz-Moreno and Ruiz came up with during the height of the pandemic. They understood that when the world would eventually open up again, people would be seeking connection. Customers don’t only see Elemento’s staff as shopkeepers but as friends. Customers have even brought them items to decorate the shop. Their top shelves serve as an homage to those customers. The space is welcoming, and the people are warm-hearted. “I feel that we’ve been really blessed with being able to do as much as we have…being able to support other people. It’s just good to have that sense of community” according to Ruiz. He and Diaz-Moreno are also leaders in the downtown Angola business community, helping to organize and manage public downtown events while working with local nonprofit organizations.
Elemento
65 North Public Square | Angola, IN 46703
www.shopelementoonline.com
260-316-7801
elemento
Toboggan open weekends until March 1

Toboggan open weekends until March 1

A tradition born nearly 90 years ago continues to this day at Pokagon State Park in Angola. A ride down the 1,780-foot toboggan has delighted young and old alike for decades.