As the holidays approach, I always find myself reflecting on what this season really means. Yes, there are gifts to buy, homes to decorate, and projects to finish before winter arrives. But beneath all of that, this time of year is about something much more important: family, gratitude, tradition, and giving back.
Here at Williams Lumber & Home Centers, those values have been at the heart of our family business since my grandfather, Stan Williams, founded the company in Rhinebeck in 1946. I’m especially grateful for the generations of customers, associates, contractors, and neighbors who have allowed our family to serve this community for eight decades.
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Our seven locations have grown and changed through the years, but what matters most hasn’t. We still believe in personal service, trusted relationships, and helping our customers NAIL IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME.
One of my favorite traditions happens every November, when our flagship Rhinebeck store transforms into a winter wonderland. The lights go up, themed Christmas trees fill the store, model trains appear, and our aisles become filled with ornaments and gifts.
For more than 30 years, I’ve loved playing “Kim Kringle.” There’s something wonderful about seeing families return year after year and watching children experience the magic of the season. I also love finding gifts that are a little unexpected. Williams may be known for lumber, hardware, and building materials, but during the holidays, you can find something for almost everyone on your list.
For the DIYer, there are tools from brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Craftsman, and Makita. For someone who loves the outdoors, there’s Carhartt apparel and YETI coolers and drinkware. Home cooks and entertainers might love a Weber or Traeger grill or a Gozney or Ooni pizza oven.
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And sometimes the smaller gifts are the most fun: Yankee Candles, Warmies, Ravensburger puzzles, Legos, books, cozy socks, Meyers Soap, Beekman 1802 products, and plenty of stocking stuffers under $20. Our ornament collection is another favorite, especially when you’re looking for something meaningful to mark a new home, new baby, anniversary, or special year.
The holidays also remind us that giving extends far beyond what we put under the tree.
We’re proud of our longtime support of programs including Trees for Troops, which provides Christmas trees to military families; and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals through Ace Hardware fundraising efforts.
When you shop at Williams, you’re also supporting a local, family-owned business that has been part of this community for 80 years.
As we celebrate this season and prepare for such an important milestone, my family and I simply want to say thank you. Thank you for shopping locally, trusting us with your homes and projects, and allowing Williams Lumber & Home Centers to be part of your family’s traditions.
From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful holiday season filled with gratitude, generosity, and time with the people you love most.
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