Courtyard Gardens Going Out of Business

After two and one half years in business, Courtyard Gardens will close its doors for the last time on Friday, May 30.

A Going Out of Business Sale is happening now through the end of the month. All items and store fixtures are on sale. Floral orders are no longer being taken, and gift certificates will be honored for merchandise purchases through the end of May.

Courtyard Gardens is located at 135 School Street, next to the city parking lot across from Hardees. Its hours are Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

Ruth Melby, owner, cites discouraging economic factors and a desire to spend more time with her family as reasons for the decision.
            “I’ve learned that growing a business is often a 70- to 80-hour-a-week job,” said Melby, “and the economic realities of staying afloat can be daunting.”
            Her decision to close the business is the result of an operational review that indicated diminishing prospects for a small business in Forest City. 
            “Deciding to close Courtyard Gardens is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do,” said Melby, who opened the store out of a desire to help others and provide needed services to the Forest City community. “I have loved coming to work every day and being part of people’s lives—especially the kind of moments when flowers minister to needs.” 
            Melby has earned a positive reputation as business owner for her support of school and civic organizations. Courtyard Gardens was named the New Business of the Year by the Forest City Chamber of Commerce in 2006.
            “I feel like I poured my heart into this—in fact my whole family has, and I’ve enjoyed having the best customers in the world,” said Melby, who also had nothing but praise for her current employees—Shelby Tweeten and Emma Oanes. Melby plans to seek employment and remain in Forest City.

For more information, contact:
Ruth H. Melby, owner
melbyruth@yahoo.com
641-585-1976 (business)
641-590-2027 (cell)
May 16, 2008