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Nikki Rickard was looking for a business opportunity.

“I had prayed for a long time about opening a coffee and bagel shop,” Rickard said. “After much research, (I found out) that was not feasible financially. Then this opportunity became available.”

Yard Love is a sign business that celebrates life’s events. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding anniversary or anything in between, Yard Love can deliver almost any message.

“Since I had previous experience with putting up church signs, I thought, ‘Why not?’ I love helping others and we can financially make this work,” Rickard said.

Rickard has business in her genes. Her great-grandfather was one of the most successful African-American men in his Kentucky home town, owning a slaughter house, pool hall and land.

“I bought my inventory in January,” she said. “My territory covers eight zip codes, including Hamblen, Hawkins and Jefferson counties, but we can go anywhere there is not already a Yard Love affiliate.”

Rickard said that those working for Yard Love owns their own territories independently and get to keep 100% of profits.

Rickard came to Morristown after graduating from Lee-McRae College in Banner Elk, North Carolina. She took a job at Carson-Newman University in 2001. She met her husband Jason at C-N and they are married.

Cost of sign rentals are $90, including tax, and are set up the evening before the event. Events that can be celebrated include birthdays, welcome home, congratulations, baby showers, graduations and anniversaries. Rickard can be reached at 423-736-8175.