Hood's Do-it Best - Wyandotte, MI

Hood's Do-it Center, 1844 Ford Ave., Wyandotte, is a hardware store with a unique touch.

A big part of that unique touch is the Yankee Candles department. The fact is that Hood's is the largest Yankee Candles retailer in the state.

Raising over $9,00 for Salvation with
Beanie Baby Grab Bags: Bob, Patti, Lois,
Salvation Army Rep., Dan, John, Ed.

Along with candles, Hood's also has a very large gift department that compares favorably with other gift stores. Many people say, "it's better than any Hallmark - much more upscale".

With more than 40 years history, Hood's was established by Tom Hood, and was taken over by very close family friend Ed Christie and his family. Christie operates the business with wife Mary Ellen, son John and daughter Patti.

And for those who may think Hood's is just a gift store, think again, said Patti, noting that, with 40 years experience, the people at Hood's know what the customer wants and needs in hardware - and Hood's has it all. In recent years, the gift selection had gotten a lot of attention, Patti said, and makes the store a good place for everyone to go. The men go to the right (hardware) and the ladies go to the left (candles and gifts)" according to Patti "Both husbands and wives can come in here - and do - and see something they want."

The best-selling Yankee Candles are the 22-ounce jar candles, Patti said. Hood's carries more than 80 fragrances and the candles burn for 150 to 200 hours. Hood's also has a sampler (votive) style and wax potpourri tarts for potpourri burners.

Hood's recently received five new Yankee Candles scents: Chocolate Truffle, Peppermint Swirls, Ginger Bread, Key Lime Pie and Fireside. Along with the new housewarmer fragrances, Hood's now carries the Yankee Candles Aroma Formula line. Eight new fragrances to stimulate the senses.

Also in the gift section are Harbour Lights lighthouses, Precious Moments, Cherished Teddies and Camille Beckman bath and body products. Hood's also make custom gift baskets.

"The gift department has been here since the start of the business, but in the last 10 years we've really turned it into an upscale gift department," Patti said, "people are finding out about it and it's really blossoming."

Hood's opens at 8:30a.m. Mondays through Saturdays, closing at 6 p.m. every night except Friday, when it stays open an hour later. The store is closed Sundays.