In the Company of Angels and its owner Diane Douglas have become a downtown Fairhope staple. The thoughtfulness shop located in the heart of the Fairhope French Quarter just celebrated its 28^th anniversary. The 2,000-square foot shop is dedicated specifically to uplifting gifts and accessories for all ages. Douglas said, "It’s simple in design and focus, it’s an entire shop filled with happies!” You’ll find angels throughout, but other treasures include original art, jewelry, soaps and inspirational quotes. If you’re looking for a small gift, look no further.

The store and its staff make everyone welcome. "Yes, we do welcome pets with well-behaved owners,” said Douglas. They even keep a supply of dog treats at the desk. Thinking baskets are scattered nearby to collect any selection you might be considering and a comfy corner allows the reluctant shopper a spot to rest while others browse.

Fairhope’s French Quarter has become an attraction over the years. In the Company of Angels played a role in the creation of the Fairhope French Quarter in 1993. As Douglas looked for a larger space for the shop, she teamed up with Bessie Montgomery who owned property on De La Mare.  They came up with the idea to have small shops off a courtyard to offer growing businesses a chance to find reasonably priced locations. In the Company of Angels opened as the French Quarter’s anchor store in 1994. Several local businesses now call the tree covered courtyard home.

Diane Douglas jokes that she brings longevity as her biggest asset to her leadership roles. She was an initial member of the Downtown Merchants Association and served as their President twice. She’s also strongly supported the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce throughout the years, now serving on the current Board of Directors. She’s volunteered in many capacities with Ecumenical Ministries and serves through outreach programs at her church home, Trinity Presbyterian.

Douglas told us she credits the store’s growth and success to the wonderful friends who make up the group she calls the Angel Crew. "They buy in to the hope-filled message of our tiny pass-along ministry and share with those who enter our shop,” said Douglas. She says faces change over the years, but they are committed to providing care and concern for those who arrive at the shop’s doors.

In the Company of Angels is open year-round Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. with special hours during the holidays. They are located at 328 De La Mare Avenue in Fairhope. You can also find them on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thecompanyofangels/