#19: Barbara Fleishhacker - The Main Attraction

She Achieved with Albine Bennett

Barbara's journey began at Tupelo High School in 1978, bursting with excitement for the college experience that awaited her. The allure of the University of Alabama proved irresistible, marking the start of a vibrant chapter filled with youthful exuberance. Although she took a detour from Ole Miss in her senior year, Barbara's adventurous spirit led her to the enchanting streets of San Francisco. Here, she found herself at I. Magnin, a posh department store, where she immersed herself in the world of Hermes and couture gowns, captivated by the intersection of design and pop culture.

Life in San Francisco was a beautiful tapestry, but expenses prompted Barbara to get creative. She supplemented her income by exploring estate sales on Fridays, venturing to the Marin County flea market on Sundays, and turning her treasures into a livelihood. In those days, couture vintage was her constant companion, and Barbara became a magnet for uncovering fabulous finds.

In 1983, the Southern charm beckoned, and Barbara landed in Biloxi. Here, she realized her dream by opening The Roadside Attraction, a delightful vintage shop. The passion for treasure hunting ran in her blood, inherited from her mother, an antiques dealer. The thrill of the hunt became second nature to Barbara.

A new chapter unfolded as Barbara headed to Santa Rosa, CA, becoming one of the first in-house designers for Sears. Her expertise flourished, contributing to the display of the groundbreaking Garanimals children's line. Yet, Tupelo called her back in 1988. Fueled by a friend's suggestion, Barbara opened The Main Attraction, a unique shop that quickly became an integral part of the community.

Immersing herself in community service, Barbara volunteered with Gumtree Art Festival, co-chaired the Gumtree Songwriters Festival with Bob Ray, and dedicated her time to Oleput, Tupelo Film Festival, and the Elvis Festival. Fashion shows, Charity Ball dressings, and fundraisers for the Tupelo Lee Humane Society became her way of giving back. Through it all, her unwavering love for art and design remained a constant force.

The retail landscape evolved, presenting challenges with the rise of the Internet, the impact of COVID-19, and the escalating costs of fair-trade goods. Barbara's brick-and-mortar store transformed, no longer showcasing vintage treasures but goods with a conscience, consciously avoiding products made in China or Bangladesh. Although uncertainties loom, Barbara remains resilient, navigating the changing times and hoping for a reversal in the trend of internet shopping.

At the age of 63, Barbara's indomitable spirit continues to shine. A senior at the University of Mississippi, she's set to graduate in May 2024. Reflecting on her earlier years when a lack of a degree hindered job opportunities, Barbara now embraces the pursuit of knowledge, ensuring she holds a diploma should the retail path take unexpected turns. With no crystal ball to predict the future, Barbara forges ahead, hanging in there, and proving that it's never too late for a new beginning.
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