Hardware Wish Lists

Steadman’s Ace Hardware in Miles City, Montana, is a community resource for a variety of reasons, one of which isn’t common for an independent home improvement store. 

The store is a destination for couples who are getting married to register for wedding gifts. Each couple goes to the store to create a wish list of products, not limited to items from the popular housewares department. 

Steadman’s then posts the registries on its website. The store also announces the names of the couples on its website and on Facebook so guests can view the gift wish lists online. 

Choosing wedding gifts—be they measuring cups or 20-foot ladders—at Steadman’s isn’t unusual for locals. 

“People shop here for all occasions, including birthdays and graduations,” says Ronda Worlie, housewares buyer and manager. “It is a tradition for families to shop at the local hardware store.” 

Worlie provides a personal touch for engaged couples by creating displays in the store that are specific to their bridal registries to make shopping easier for friends and family. 

Out-of-town guests can make purchases from the registry over the phone and Steadman’s employees advise them on what items haven’t been purchased yet. Steadman’s also provides complimentary wedding gift wrapping and delivery for local couples. 

“We have signature gift wrap,” Worlie says. “People recognize it. It is important because people want to give a gift that they’re proud of.”