Dudley’s is as old as our Village. One of the first stores I remember when I lived and worked downtown Toronto at Church and Wellesley intersection. I thought I would have a quick chat with owner Steve Dawson about how ready he is for Pride.

What are your plans for Pride 2019 and the rest of the summer?

Pride month is our busiest of the year. We are busy stocking up for the festivities. We are open 7 days a
week and we will have extended hours Pride weekend. We have a huge selection of Pride merchandise and
look forward to having lots of fun. After all the excitement of Pride I am hoping to spend some downtime
with my family and dogs in the quiet countryside.

Give me some history Steve about Dudley’s Hardware Paint & Décor?

Dudley Hardware opened in 1934 by Morris and Sid Dudley. Later John Dudley, the brother of Morris took over
operations. I started working at Dudley’s in 2001 and later bought the business. I rebranded the store as
Dudley’s Hardware Paint & Decor. Dudley’s has been the cornerstone of Church and Wellesley for 85 years and
is the oldest business on Church St.

What’s been going on at Dudley’s Hardware Paint & Decor since you took possession?

Building on the tradition of exemplary customer service I continue to source new products and Canadian
manufacturers and suppliers to meet the ever changing demands of our customers. I’ve also recently created
an offshoot of the hardware store called Upstair’s @ Dudley’s as a Home Decor / Art Market. We feature local
artists and craftspeople from the neighbourhood as well as new home furnishing with a cool selection of retro
and vintage finds.

How does Dudley’s Hardware Paint & Decor identify with the Community? What does it mean to be in the
Village?

We are a judgement free, safe and welcoming store. We service all people with various levels of abilities and
skills sets. Many people moving into the area come and shop Dudley’s for paint, hardware, houswares and lots
of free advice. We are happy and proud to be a part of the home making process and building life-long
connections.

Name three things that make Dudley’s Hardware Paint & Decor standout?

1) Our dedication to providing high quality products that are locally sourced with the lowest environmental impact
2) Our friendly knowledgeable staff
3) Our small town feel with downtown convenience

Name one of your favorite experiences at Dudley’s Hardware Paint & Décor?

My favourite experience is meeting people new to Toronto. Whether they are from small town Ontario or the
other side of the world. It’s always exciting and heartwarming to share our unique human experiences.

Happy Pride Steve, cheers.

About the Author

Antoine has on numerous occasions said that everything he does is "a love letter to the LGBTQ community". and he truly loves this community. A 29 years' media and marketing leader, Antoine is the publisher of theBUZZ, The Pink Pages Directory, PinkPlayMags, and a magazine for Durham Region families The Local Biz Magazine, and is the host of talk show "On the Couch". On his off time he is usually involved in community organizations and causes.