Sydney Halford is the new owner of Gifts on Parkway.
Having a strong desire to own a business, Halford decided to purchase the Russellville store when she learned the current owners were closing it.
Because she was 
changing careers from school teacher to entrepreneur, Halford thought it prudent to get help.
She came to the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at Arkansas Tech University and received assistance with business planning, financial projections, marketing, and other topics to prepare her for business ownership.
“The most valuable assistance that I received from the ASBTDC was when Mr. (Nathan) George explained the steps I needed to take to ensure purchasing my business was successful. He gave me a detailed checklist that helped me understand what I needed to do and when it needed to be done.”
The checklist also explained where to go to accomplish each task, explained Halford.
“Anyone interested in purchasing a business should make an appointment with the closest ASBTDC. The employees are so helpful and can guide you in the right direction. They know who to contact and the steps you need to take to successfully start a business,” she said.
Gifts on Parkway offers gifts for every occasion, ranging from timeless classics to on-trend items and will soon offer bridal and baby registries.
Halford is grateful to the community for its support during the ownership transition. She is passionate about meeting customers and helping them find the perfect gift for any occasion.