Marjorie Barlow was sister to Frank Barlow, and aunt to Ken Barlow and David Barlow. Marjorie moved to Weatherfield in 1939 to stay with sister-in-law Ida Barlow while Frank was off fighting. Marjorie had little in common with Ida, whom she saw as a mouse. Marjorie worked at department store Baxendale's as an assistant, after previously working at Earnshaw's Mill. When she wasn't working, she loved ballroom dancing and inspired by Carmen Miranda, she wore flowers in her hair. At 27, Marjorie was unmarried, and had little interest in rushing to the altar.