Aceing a conversation with Gina Schaefer – pun intended – was a highlight for Sylvia Henderson, Host of MMC-TV’s “Think About It!” show recently. Gina is the owner of 13 ACE hardware stores in the Washington DC and Baltimore metropolitan areas. Conversation flowed through what it takes to be a female owner in a traditionally-male industry; how she engages her employees in decisions and creates a culture of inclusion across her stores; transitions implemented to weather economic disruptions; leadership and business lessons learned as store locations multiplied; and the importance of “buying local” and reinvesting in our communities.
Whether you own an old home and need a unique “thingy” to replace one that’s worn out, or rent a new condo and want a creative gift or services done for you, or are thinking about working in or owning a store yourself, you will get insight into the owner of one of the best-known retail hardware brands in the area. With apologies to the ACE hardware jingle, “Gina is the face of a few cool hardware stores”!
Our Secret Garden
Tucked away in back of our 2nd floor lawn and garden department is what we like to call “a secret garden” – our charming 150 square foot outdoor garden center balcony, filled to capacity with annuals, perennials, herb and vegetable starters, hanging baskets and tropical plants. It’s a feast for the eyes and a respite for our neighbors in Logan Circle- stop by to purchase plants for your home, or simply to enjoy the serenity of this plant filled oasis.
Visit AceHardwareDC.com to find any “thingy”!!!