Ruth Handler voluptuous figure. While the Handler family was vacationing in Europe, Ruth Handler saw the German Bild Lilli doll (which was not a children's toy, but rather an adult gag gift) in a Swiss shop and brought it home. The Lilli doll was a representation of the same concept Ruth had been trying to sell to other Mattel executives. Once home, she reworked the design of the doll and named her Barbie after the Handlers' daughter, Barbara. Barbie debuted at the New York toy fair on March 9, 1959, but was not an immediate success. When Disney introduced The Mickey Mouse
Brent Handler the company has helped raise over $2 million for nonprofit organizations, schools and hospitals across the country, including March of Dimes and National Children's Cancer Society, by providing vacation homes for auction at fundraising events. Handler serves as an advisory board member of the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education. Brent Handler Brent Handler (born October 21, 1969) is an American entrepreneur and pioneer of the destination club industry. Throughout his career, Handler has been recognized for his success building businesses that capitalize on nascent consumer trends and transform established industries. He is founder/CEO of Inspirato, a private, luxury destination club.