Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
Old Lyme Hardware in Old Lyme, Connecticut, is preparing to host their annual Easter egg hunt, a favorite community event.
The store began the holiday tradition in 2022, only a few months after owner Jessica Talerico bought the store.
“The first year we did it, we thought it would be fun for the community and something to bring more people to the store who maybe didn’t know we had taken over from the previous owners. We were trying to get our name out there,” Talerico says. “The few families that came loved it, so each year we have gotten a little more organized.”
The egg hunt has become a community success in Old Lyme, with 40 kids participating in the event in 2024.
“I have people specifically ask if we will continue to do it, and they come back year after year,” Talerico says. “I think initially people thought it was a little strange having an egg hunt inside the hardware store, but the kids really enjoy it. And last year when it rained, it didn’t affect us!”
This year, Talerico plans to hide 1,000 eggs filled with candy, toys and cash. To raise proceeds to fund the event, customers can buy raffle tickets to win either a Blackstone grill or an Ooni pizza oven. Tickets can be purchased for $10 and the winner will be chosen at this year’s egg hunt on April 12.
Talerico plans to continue the exciting Easter function in years to come.
“More people have heard about the event, so we continue to have better turnouts year after year,” Talerico says. “I like to think it is something the community looks forward to—because we do!”
To read about other retailers celebrating with their community, visit our Checkouts section.
