Downtown Albany is what it is today thanks to many legacy businesses. The entrepreneurial spirit and dedication of these families is inspiring. This is the second in a series of articles to share our legacy businesses with you.
Emma Downtown – 25 years 422 1st Ave. W – (541) 926-1717
For 25 years, Emma Downtown has been a pillar of Downtown Albany’s retail scene, setting the standard for quality, creativity, and community engagement. Led by Peggy Udolf, her husband Eric, and their daughter Mandy Beauchamp, the family-owned boutique has not only shaped Albany’s shopping experience but has also played a key role in the revitalization of Historic Downtown Albany.
Emma Downtown opened in 2000 at 224 Washington St. SW, later moving to its current First Ave. location in 2004. But the family’s contributions to Downtown started long before that. In 1991, Eric and Peggy opened their first business Flinn’s on First in the Flinn building. In 1995, they opened Hachard’s Antiques, a well-loved Downtown store. Seeing a need for a quality women’s boutique, Mandy opened Emma Downtown. They ran both for about nine months before deciding to put all their efforts into Emma Downtown together.
Beyond their store, the Emma Downtown team has championed downtown revitalization efforts for more than 25 years. Peggy played a pivotal role in shaping Albany’s streetscape, helping bring the beloved holiday snowflakes and summer flower baskets to life. She also worked to introduce park benches, garbage cans, and the ParkWise parking program, ensuring a customerfriendly experience downtown.
Emma Downtown has also been a leader in retail events, creating Downtown Unwrapped & Holiday Open House, a festive kickoff to the holiday shopping season. They are strong supporters of Crazy Daze, Albany’s longest-running downtown event, and consistently offer creative window displays that enhance the charm of the district.
When asked about her dedication to Downtown Albany and helping fellow business owners, Peggy simply said, “That’s what community does.”
Jordan Jewelers – 32 years 202 1st Ave. W – (541) 926-1907 For more than 30 years, Jordan Jewelers has been a cornerstone of Downtown Albany, offering fine jewelry, expert repairs, and exceptional customer service. Established in 1993 by Brad and Angie Jordan, the family-owned business has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship and trust, helping generations celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.
Now, after decades at the helm, Brad Jordan has passed the torch to longtime employee Sam Pyburn, who took ownership in January 2025. Sam, who joined the business in 2015, has spent nearly a decade guiding customers through their most important purchases, from engagement rings to anniversary gifts.
Jordan Jewelers offers the largest selection of bridal jewelry in the MidValley, featuring engagement rings, wedding sets, and custom designs, along with timepieces, colored gemstones, and designer collections. Every purchase is backed by personalized service and expert guidance, ensuring each piece becomes a cherished heirloom.
Beyond sales, jewelry repair and restoration remain at the heart of the business. With goldsmith Brad Jordan still overseeing repairs, all work is done inhouse to maintain the highest quality and security. Customers can trust their treasured pieces are in skilled, experienced hands.
Jordan Jewelers continues to be a trusted neighborhood jeweler, offering timeless designs and a commitment to excellence. As one of Albany’s longest -standing jewelry stores, its legacy of quality and service will continue for years to come.
