WILTON – On Thursday, people filled the sidewalk near the new Wilton Hardware Store. They came to enjoy free food, socialize with one another, and wish good luck to owners Jeff and Marylena Chaisson during the store’s Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Coffee and baked goods provided by Ray Ray’s Cafe greeted early customers. Hot dogs and burgers were served later in the day. “This town is awesome,” Marylena said. Everyone all works together.

There were several give away packages displayed in front of the store. Anyone making a purchase could put their name in a bucket for the one they wanted to win. At the end of the Grand Opening Sale on Sunday, a name would be drawn from each bucket. All purchasers were also eligible for a grand prize barbecue package that included a grill and cooler.

Wilton resident and Franklin County Chamber of Commerce member Shannon Smith before the ribbon cutting said there was a good turnout. In response, Chamber president Glenn Kapiloff said Wilton needs something like this. The Chamber sponsored the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Jeff Chaisson purchased the Wilton Hardware Store earlier this year and moved it to a building further down on Main Street that he owned. The local store had been closed for about a year. 

Penny Meservier, Chamber Executive Director, welcomed everyone to the ribbon cutting event. “Wilton is fortunate to again have a hardware store in town,” she said and was proud to be there.

Owner Jeff Chaisson thanked everyone for their support. He noted that it had been a the long process and that Jessi Sawyer, the store manager, has been doing a great job so far. “We’re tailoring our inventory to the needs of the community,” he said. Anything that isn’t stocked will be custom ordered.

A 10 percent discount on all in-store purchases and custom orders was offered during the three-day Grand Opening Sale. Other monthly specials were also offered.

pharnden@sunmediagroup.net