A Christian bookstore in a Canadian community has been recognized for its unique atmosphere. According to the Daily (Grande Prairie) Herald-Tribune in Alberta, the DownTown Association last week gave the Shepherd's Fold an Art Ouellette Award, which honors a business that presents a level of upkeep and pride that is a positive reflection of the downtown of Grande Prairie.

“A lot of people commented that we are a sanctuary, that we are kind of a safe place to come to,” Rhonda Born, who co-owns the store with Mary Buller, told the newspaper.

Shepherd's Fold features hardwood floors accented by a purple carpet in the sitting area, with color-coordinated couches and chairs throughout the store. Books, CDs and T-shirts are all neatly on display.

The overall impression of the store is a cozy, comfortable atmosphere, which is why the two owners named it Shepherd's Fold, the Herald-Tribune reported.

DownTown Association Chairman Harold Friesen said it wasn't just the design of the store that garnered the award. “The award is given for maintenance, attention to details, upkeep, pride of property and enthusiasm,” said Friesen, adding Shepherd's Fold met all those criteria as well as great customer service.