Galentines and Gifts
Fancy Flamingo owner throws seasonal in-store parties
After staying home to raise her four boys, MICHELE LECHMANICK wanted a girl. So, when The Fancy Flamingo’s original owner, BECKY BOURNEMAN, approached her about purchasing the boutique two years ago, Lechmanick happily agreed.
“This is my girl,” she says.
Originally from New Jersey, Lechmanick and her husband moved to the Cape Fear region ten years ago. “Over the years, I’ve always thought, ‘How cool would it be to own a store?’ she says. “Becky knew I wanted to open a store, and she owns other businesses in the area. She couldn’t give this boutique enough attention.”
Upon entering The Fancy Flamingo, nestled between a Lowes Foods and Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries on U.S. 17 in Hampstead, customers can expect a warm smile from Lechmanick and a tail wag from Shelby, a fluffy white Morkie that Lechmanick has dubbed the “shop dog.”
The boutique is filled with women’s clothing in expanded sizes, clothing, and accessories for little girls and babies, home décor, art, gifts, jewelry, pet items, and everything in between.
“A lot of women grocery shop next door and stop by to pick up a gift,” she says, adding that she enjoys interacting with customers as opposed to selling online. “I like to see how they feel about the products I sell, and I enjoy hearing their suggestions.”
After a busy summer and holiday season, Lechmanick says January and February are quiet months for The Fancy Flamingo.
She hosts an annual Galentine’s Day event where customers enjoy sales and giveaways, chair massages, permanent jewelry, fairy hair, as well as wine and snacks. This year’s event will be the evening of Februrary 6.
Lechmanick hosts a few of these open house-style events each year and partners with local businesses to highlight each other’s businesses and celebrate seasonal offerings.
In the two years since taking over The Fancy Flamingo, Lechmanick has worked to make the boutique her own. With her personal touch, diverse offerings, and connections to the local community, she says she strives to create a space that feels both welcoming and unique.
That includes keeping her wares at broad price points.
“A lot of my customers are teachers and moms, so I keep it casual and comfortable,” Lechmanick says. “I pay attention to trends, but I also stock items that I enjoy. If I don’t like it, I can’t sell it.”
To view more of photographer Daria Amato’s work, go to dariaphoto.com
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