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12/17/2015 11:00 PMThe supermarket that offers one-stop shopping is one of the greatest inventions. For holiday gift shopping, Page Hardware & Appliance is the greatest discovery ever. There's something for every person and age on your list. The employees are not only knowledgeable but also provide stellar customer service. Page's has convenient parking for a quick in and out trip. And, they'll wrap your purchases. That's it – from beginning to end, you're set.
Whether you're looking for stocking stuffers or under-the-tree presents, whether you're a man or woman needing advice when shopping for the opposite sex, the daunting task can become a successful adventure with hardware clerks such as Michael Winans, who shared his suggestions.
"We have a lot of potential gifts, not just vacuums and hammers, but all kinds of goodies. Everything from baking supplies to Bluetooth speakers," Winans said. Based on his enthusiasm, it seems like Winans might have the Bluetooth speakers on his own list.
"Customers love to wander through housewares looking for hostess gifts or something for Mom." Great stocking stuffers for women include gardening gloves, nice candles, "For those who appreciate quality, look at All-Clad pans, Wusthof knives, Wolf small appliances, and Nespresso coffee makers.
If you're shopping for that special man in your life, we have a lot of tools -- really nice Swiss Army knives and Leatherman multi-tools are always appreciated," he added. "This year we have a Swiss Army knife with a picture of Grass Island on it. Proceeds even benefit the upkeep of the Grass Island shack." Grilling accessories and bird feeders are other popular choices.
"People are surprised by the number of toys we carry for kids," says Winans, "like wooden yo-yo's and tops, sleds, and new helicopter-type Batman and Superman." To tie in with the current movies, you'll find Yoda, Darth Vader, R2-D2, Stormtrooper, Woodstock and Snoopy decorations (while supplies last). And, candy cane colored extension cords for your favorite holiday decorator.
For customers buying for the opposite sex and not quite sure what exactly to get, Winans advises coming in to the store and talking with the employees. "Our staff encompasses a wide range of ages and genders, so we can give you personalized recommendations for the hard-to-buy-for people on your list. Most guys feel comfortable in a hardware store. It is a relief when they can buy gifts here that are appreciated by their wives and girlfriends."
For Fido and Fluffy, there's a really nice pet section with toys, dog beds, and pet accessories. The beds, Winans jokes, are "super cozy, I almost took a nap in one the other day. One is even orthopedic." He adds, "We are hugely pet friendly."
"Guilford" swag is a big hit with out-of-town guests and college kids. We carry Guilford T-shirts and hoodies in several colors, including green. "Page Hardware sweatshirts," he says, "are a perennial favorite."
There are also Guilford ceramic mugs, dish towels, and a Connecticut-shaped cutting board. Page's sells postcards of Guilford scenes shot by a local photographer. Postcards not only make great gifts but they can absolutely double as Christmas cards.
Gift cards are also a great idea because they're a safe bet – "the person getting the gift card can get exactly what he or she wants and there will be no disappointment. We can even gift wrap the gift card for you!"
Registering with Page's, as one does for a wedding, can be done for holiday wish lists. "Dropping subtle hints (or not so subtle hints) works too," Winans says.
Page's is open from 7:30am to 6pm Monday through Saturday, and from 9am to 5pm on Sundays (closing at 5PM on Christmas Eve). "Plenty of options to come in and do your shopping," he points out. Complimentary cookies are often baking in our appliance area for shoppers to enjoy. On Christmas Eve, the staff dresses up, for a festive feel. "We love serving our customers all year-round, and especially during the holiday season."