Bryan and Courtney Fitzsimmons had been working in the hospitality industry for 27 and 20-plus years respectively when they decided they were ready for a change. At the time, Bryan was director of operations for Another Broken Egg overseeing seven states. Bryan’s dad, Frank Fitzsimmons, was living in Pensacola where he has been a business broker for 25 years. 

Frank was a customer and friend of Don Alan Work, owner of Don Alans Fine Men’s Clothiers on Palafox Street. It just so happened that Don was ready to retire after operating Don Alans since 2001, and enlisted Frank’s help in selling his business. At Frank’s suggestion, Bryan and Courtney drove down from Atlanta to see what Don Alans was all about. 

It was love at first sight. They purchased the business in 2019, moved to Pensacola, and began operating Don Alans. Soon, their 23-year-old son, Sam joined them in the business. Don Alan himself still helps out from time to time. From personal experience, I can say it is truly a pleasure to do business with them.

Don Alans is just a different shopping experience. You know immediately when you walk in the door that Bryan, Courtney, and Sam are having fun. You feel right at home and pick up that their customers enjoy being there and are part of the family. Don Alans has been voted Pensacola’s Community Choice Awards “Best of the Bay,” several times now.

What makes Don Alans different?  It starts with Bryan and Courtney’s hospitality background. They truly like taking care of their customers. Nothing is out of the way for them to make sure you are a satisfied customer and a friend. “Communication is key,” says Courtney. ”We are an education. We want to instill knowledge about clothing.”  

At Don Alans, they guide you, ensuring that you get the right fit and understand why it’s important. “Purchasing your first suit can be intimidating. Many people thank us for dressing them. It’s rewarding to see the transformation take place. After all, confidence equals success.” she says. 

If you can find it at a department store, you won’t find it at Don Alans. They carry tried and true exclusive brands. Their philosophy is to stick with the classics for “foundation pieces” and then use shoes, ties, and belts to keep up with the latest trends. Most of their casual pants are designed to be altered, which is included in the price, not an extra charge. They even offer on-premises alterations for “emergencies.”

Did you know that the term “Clothing” means suits? Surprising to me, their suit business has never been better. All their suits are high quality and made from hand-selected Italian fabrics. Select Suits and Sport Coats are “one cut only” meaning once the garment is made the fabric is discontinued. They carry Barbour, an exclusive British line of jackets, shoes, and accessories that’s been around since 1894. They carry an American company, Martin Dingman, for most of their shoes and belts.

Meyer slacks are the most popular pant line in all of Germany and the most popular pant line at Don Alans. Don Alans also carries a wide variety of dressy jeans. Johnny-O is another line at Don Alans that includes casual shirts, shoes, and outerwear, which you won’t find anywhere else in Pensacola. Peter Millar is a little more mainstream, also not to be found in any other stores in the Pensacola area. Courtney, Bryan, and Sam travel to markets in Dallas, Chicago, New York, and Italy to buy their goods.

Bryan and Courtney believe community involvement is important and jumped right into all sorts of charitable endeavors throughout the Pensacola area. Their biggest surprise since entering the retail clothing business? “How nice our clientele is,’” says Bryan. Courtney says, “I was surprised how much we love the business and how well we have adapted to it.”

Transitioning from hospitality to the retail clothing business, “There are so many options for women, but not so many for men.”

The best part in my opinion… They enjoy working together as a family. “Our strengths complement each other,” says Courtney. It’s fun to see that in action. Don Alans is a unique men’s store with terrific customer service and attention to detail. Stop in and join the family. You’ll be glad you did.  

And you will look better and feel confident when you leave….  Guaranteed!