Fire Response Damages 3 Businesses In Old Town Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Three women-owned businesses were damaged in a fire Sunday night in Old Town Alexandria.

The commercial building fire at 103 South Saint Asaph Street prompted a response from the Alexandria Fire Department around 10:57 p.m. Sunday. Units found smoke and a fire inside the building and quickly extinguished it. There were no injuries.

According to the fire department, Friends to Lovers Bookstore, Little Birdies Boutique, and Madame Coco are co-located in the building. All three businesses had smoke and water damage.

Friends to Lovers Bookstore had just held its grand opening that weekend. Owner Jamie Fortin told social media followers that the store had smoke damage and was awaiting details on the extent of damages. Fortin believes the building may not be usable for at least the rest of 2024 or longer. A GoFundMe was started to help rebuild inventory and open a new space.

"To myself and I think to a lot of us, Friends to Lovers isn't about the building," Fortin wrote. "We have already built the foundations for a beautiful, vibrant, and joyful community centered around love and friendship and storytelling and I'm so thrilled for everything we've accomplished so far and everything we'll accomplish in the future."

Children's clothing store Little Birdies Boutique's owner Shanlee Johnson said much of its merchandise designed in house was destroyed by the fire, and the building is likely not usable "for the foreseeable future." A GoFundMe fundraiser is underway to help the business.

"Since 2012, I have found so much joy bringing Little Birdies to life for your families, and we are determined to continue doing so," Johnson shared on social media.

Another shop, Madame Coco's Emporium, is owned by Stacey Wharam and Meshelle Armstrong. The business shared in social media that it was "shaken by the losses, not just of our own space, but of the incredible women-owned businesses that were also impacted."

"Though the damage is immense, our spirits remain rooted in hope and resilience," the business shared. "This is more than just a setback — it's a reminder of the strength and unity of our community. Together, we will rebuild."

Visit Del Ray encouraged residents to visit the owners' sister restaurants around Del Ray — Zuki Moon and Rosemont Cellar.

A total of 53 firefighters, including investigators, responded to the fire. The fire marshal's office is investigating the fire and pinpointed the origin to the first floor. The investigation remains open, but the fire is believed to be accidental.