Check Out Ana Maria Barge’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Maria Barge.  

Hi Ana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi, my name is Ana in 2018, I stumbled across a vacant storefront in downtown Milan. I had always dreamed of having a little clothing boutique but never thought it would actually happen. I remember meeting with the owner of the building with really no intentions other than wanting to see the inside. That night I found myself reckless and unable to sleep. I sat up in bed and began to write a business plan. Within a week, I had signed a lease, and that’s how it all started. I decided to name the store Magnolia on East Main after my daughter Julia who was named after Julia Roberts in the Movie Steel Magnolias. My store is 420 square feet which use to be an alley between two buildings in downtown Milan. This tiny space has been the home of Magnolia on East Main Boutique and Beauty Bar Since February 2019. My passion is to create a one on the one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Although you will find us on Facebook and Instagram, we love the face-to-face interactions with our customers. Because of this, we refrain from having an online store. In August of 202o, we had a beauty bar in the back of the boutique. Our services include haircuts, color, and shellac manicures. Oh, and did I mention we have a greater also known as Chance the shop dog who gives away free kisses. 

Despite all the changes of Covid, we have been able to stay healthy, and our sales have steadily increased year after year. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Covid shut down, but we survived! During the shutdown, I spent 8 hours a day sewing masks. I made over 400 masks which allowed me to keep all the business expenses paid for. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
What I love about my job is that it allows me to utilize my merchandising degree and my cosmetology experience all in one place. I also have masters in Textile science. I love being able to create new hairstyles for my clients as well as helping them with styling a new outfit. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @magnoliaoneastmain
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Magnolia-On-East-Main-2214013432256736

Image Credits
Mary Kerkes