BLISS FOUNDERS EXPAND THEIR PRESENCE IN THE OLD PORT 

The Docent’s Collection is pleased to announce the expansion of Bliss, one of New England’s most sought-after retail businesses, within Portland’s Old Port district. Twenty-three years after opening their first women’s boutique on Exchange Street, Angela and John Foddrill announced this spring that Bliss Boutique is moving to a much larger space in the newly renovated, award-winning Thompson Block at 121 Middle Street. This stunning building is the home of The Docent’s Collection, where our lofts first hit the market.  

“We are delighted to see Angela and John thrive and expand here in the Old Port,” said Tim Soley, President and CEO of East Brown Cow—which owns 121 Middle Street and The Docent’s Collection. “When we consider potential tenants, we look for local makers and purveyors who are deeply passionate about their products. That creativity adds a personal energy to the Old Port that is felt by every visitor. Supporting that authenticity strengthens the entire downtown ecosystem, creating a dynamic, sustainable environment where local talent and national brands complement each other. That balance helps the Old Port evolve while staying true to its roots.” 

“Bliss has been part of my life for over two decades—it has grown alongside me,” said Angela Foddrill, co-owner of Bliss. “We fell in love with the space at 121 Middle Street the moment we saw it—it’s open, full of light, and gives us room to expand, creating an even richer shopping experience. Bliss has always been about small, meaningful connections and pleasures—ethically made, beautifully designed pieces that make people feel good. This next chapter allows us to bring our community even closer by curating a space that feels warm, welcoming, and special. Retail is a labor of love, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of shaping how our community looks, feels, and connects.” 

East Brown Cow first acquired 121 Middle Street, the site of the new Bliss Boutique, in 2000. In May 2025, the building was honored with a 2025 Build Maine Award from the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Maine for its historic renovation. The building’s first floor is dedicated retail space, while the upper levels showcase The Docent’s Collection, a boutique hospitality offering that fuses first-class hospitality with modern, mobile-first service.  

Upcoming plans for The Docent’s Collection include further expansion along Middle Street, with construction soon to finish at 178 Middle Street and 184 Middle Street, which are set to join the collection this summer.