Meet Our Team
CEO, CREATIVE STRATEGIST, MARKETING GURU
Marlesa Willis, MBA
A Birmingham native, Marlesa is no stranger to the art of the pivot. A graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham , she initially planned to become a journalist in college but pivoted to the banking industry after graduation. From there she has held positions with a focus on providing solutions and maintaining client relationships for over 14 years. From managing interns to navigating websites, Marlesa is always available to answer questions or come up with a creative solution.
CCO, CONSULTING EXPERT, DESIGN GURU
Marlee T. Tilson
Marlee is a native of Pelham, AL and a digital marketing specialist. A former freelance consultant, she brings over 7 years of experience in coordinating communications & creating content for nonprofit organizations. With a background in human rights and a career dedicated to social justice advocacy, she strives to do work every day that matters.
Our Story
At the Marls Collective, our mission is to empower and inspire small business owners to share their unique spark of magic with the world.
Whether you’re tired of screaming into the void that is the internet or just feeling lost on your journey, you have a home with The Marls Collective.
Founded in 2022 by two coworkers turned best friends, TMC was created after Marlee and Marlesa (The Marls) partnered together for a project at work. The two discovered they were a great match and challenged each other to think outside the box, leading to TMC as we know as it today. They each have a storied background that helps them color the canvas of your creative strategy and provide the best service as possible. Together, the Marls work hard to give a voice to micro and small businesses who are looking for a friendly face and guide to help them define what’s next.
With a combined 15 years of corporate and nonprofit experience, they work with you and bring a dedicated collective of creative professionals to help business owners and their staff discover their own “Marls Magic”. Together we help business owners find their path, discover their voice, and share their magic with the world.