2023 Readers' Choice Award for the Best Hardware Store of The Ohio Valley
Wow what a first year we’re having. When the Readers’ Choice Award nominations came out a few months ago, we were so honored to be nominated in two categories. We were nominated in the best hardware store and the best new business that started in July 2022 to July 2023. Then we made it to the top five and then the final round of voting. We were up against some “big box” stores and other long time hardware stores for the best hardware store. The situation was the same with the best new business. Finally, we got the invite to the gala which means we made the top there for both categories.
Dom and I got to get all dressed up for the gala and go and mingle with other Ohio Valley business owners. We knew most of them but did get to meet some new ones. We were patiently waiting for them to get to our categories. First up was best new business, we finished second place in this category. Next up was best new hardware store. We were finalists in the category with Lowe’s and Menards. We didn’t know if we would have enough of a following after one short year of business to compete with the likes of Lowe’s and Menards. As they called the third place and second place, we were in disbelief that we actually WON the best hardware store. The readers’ of The Times Leader, The Intelligencer, and The Times News Register took time to vote for us and our store.
This means so much to us. This means that more people felt that our NEW hardware store was worthy of the distinction of best hardware store in 2023. This mean all the hard work and fatigued nights after long days working to remodel and get open were all worth it. This means that the countless hours planning things, changing things, and improving the building were worth it. It means that we have really great customer service just like our predecessor did. This means we’re doing the right things for our community. The community we live in and work in and strive to serve in the best way. This means that people are as grateful that we’re here as we’re grateful that they chose us over other places they could go. Over the past year, Dom and I often wondered if we made the right decision about buying this hardware store. We wondered if we got in over our heads. Some days we weren’t so sure if we didn’t but we never gave up. We kept our heads high and working towards our goals. I will be very honest, we never thought this would happen so soon. I had it in my mind this was a three goal but to happen after one short year, well I’m blown away.
Dom and I want to thank every single person who voted for us and made this happen. Without the support of our customers, friends, and family these things would not be possible. I know I’ve said this before but I don’t think everyone can fully appreciate how grateful we are. We know we have a fantastic support system and that makes us successful in so many ways. Our hearts are so full that the readers’ have spoken and we are the 2023 Best Hardware Store.
We have so many plans for 2024. Naturally, we have to be fiscally responsible and work with the money the best we can but we have big ideas for 2024 to better serve you. We have numerous services to add along with more inventory. Eventually, we will be offering many of the products that St. Clair Lumber Co. did. We hope to have our wood shop re-opened in 2024. We hope to have many other new things.
In conclusion, I just want to say thank you again. Thanks for believing in us and trusting in us. Thanks for voting us second best new business in 2023 and best hardware store in 2023. Stop in and see us today.
~ Crystal Pietranton