Meet Marcus Hall: From Basement Startup to Upscale Fashion Icon
Marcus Hall, born in Knoxville, Tennessee, is the visionary owner behind Marc Nelson Denim, a revered upscale men’s clothing store with a rich 13-year history. What began as a humble 3,000 square-foot basement space dedicated to eCommerce and wholesale operations has blossomed into a landmark establishment under his ownership. Marcus invested over $1,000,000 in renovating the very building where he started, transforming it into a sophisticated showroom adorned with salvaged brick from Knoxville’s historic McLellan Building. Complete with plush leather sofas, a pool table, and a top-shelf liquor bar, the store exudes an ambiance of luxury and refinement, heightened by the scent of leather, musk, and bourbon.
A Fashion Maven Inspired by Family Legacy
Marcus attributes his deep appreciation for fine fashion to his beloved grandmother, Jewel Henderson, a stylish diva with a passion for shopping. Her influence, alongside the wisdom of his grandfather, resonates in Marcus’s personal motto: “No matter who you are, the janitor or the mayor, always leave the house looking like someone.” This ethos guides both his personal style and the ethos of Marc Nelson Denim.
Commitment to Community and Advocacy
Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Marcus Hall is deeply committed to community service and advocacy. His journey with Sertoma began when his daughter gained a stepsister born with Down Syndrome, prompting Marcus to foresee the importance of organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For four years, he has actively served on the board of Sertoma, passionately advocating for awareness and support.
Marcus extends his philanthropic reach across various boards, including the Boys & Girls Club, Knox Opera, Parkinson’s Foundation, Mend House, and Junior Achievement, exemplifying his dedication to enriching the lives of others beyond the realm of fashion.
Family, Fun, and Fitness
In his cherished moments outside of work and community engagements, Marcus finds joy in quality time with his daughters. Kharma, 22, currently contributes to the medical field at UT Medical Center in anesthesiology, while 8-year-old Indigo keeps life lively and full of adventure. Recently, Marcus treated his daughters to a memorable trip to Vail, a highlight made possible through his support of our live auction last fall.
An avid runner and golf enthusiast, Marcus prioritizes physical fitness, engaging in runs four times a week. His commitment to health mirrors his dedication to excellence in every facet of life.
Thank you, Marc, for your ongoing support of Sertoma through your time, talent, and resources. We truly appreciate you!
