We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Mercurius and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The foundation for my entrepreneurial journey was laid by my Godfather Joe L Franklin, a successful business owner since the early 1980s. He operated his company for over 40 years, and it was through his mentorship that I was given the opportunity to launch my first business at the age of 19. At the time, I was still young and not fully prepared for the responsibilities that came with business ownership, so I made the decision to focus on college instead.

However, the desire to build something of my own never left me. Even while working full-time and attending school, I continuously explored business ideas and side ventures—always keeping that entrepreneurial spirit alive.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As the proud owner of MAC Brown LLC, a luxury limousine service in Atlanta, I believe what truly sets us apart is the genuine care and personal connection we offer every client. I’m not just the face of the company—I’m the one you speak to when you book, the one making sure every detail is handled with precision, and often, the one behind the wheel. While I manage most reservations myself, I also partner with a trusted network of independent limo professionals to meet the growing demand during peak times, ensuring consistent quality and service.

The name MAC is more than just a brand—it’s deeply personal. It stands for Mark, Audrey, and Cletus—my name and the first names of my parents. It’s also a tribute to my mother, whose coworkers at Dekalb Medical Center affectionately called her “Mac.” That legacy of care, professionalism, and integrity lives on through every ride we provide.

Breaking into this business wasn’t easy. With no formal roadmap, I had to learn as I went—through trial, error, and resilience. One fellow owner-operator offered guidance early on, pointing me in the right direction, and that mentorship made a lasting difference. Through it all, one lesson stood out: set your rates with confidence and be patient—the business will come.

MAC Brown LLC isn’t just about transportation—it’s about connection, reliability, and class. When you ride with us, you’re not just getting from point A to B. You’re riding with someone who truly values your time, comfort, and trust—like you’re with a friend or family member.

Because here, “Luxury Transportation With Class” isn’t just a slogan. It’s a promise.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
As someone who lives just outside the city near Downtown Decatur, I love showing guests around and giving them a local experience that’s more than just the tourist hotspots.

We’d start the day in Downtown Decatur, a vibrant, walkable neighborhood with a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a perfect introduction to the local vibe. If it’s breakfast time, we’d stop at Demetris, a cozy, Black woman-owned diner known for delicious breakfast and lunch options.

For first-time visitors, I always recommend grabbing an Atlanta CityPASS. It gives you access to key attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola—both located downtown. After a morning of exploring, we could grab a bite at a nearby Korean diner for something a little different.

Another day would be all about Ponce City Market and the Atlanta BeltLine. It’s a perfect mix of shopping, rooftop views, local eats, and breweries. Walking the BeltLine is a must—it’s where you truly feel the creative energy of the city.

We’d also take a day to visit Stone Mountain Park, especially for nature lovers or families. And no visit there is complete without breakfast or brunch at Sweet Potato Cafe in the City of Stone Mountain—a hidden gem with true Southern hospitality.

When it’s time to unwind, I’d take you to The Po’ Boy Shop near Emory University. Their basement bar is laid-back, game-filled, and open late. Great food, great drinks, great company.

And if you’re looking for something a little more under-the-radar, the City of Avondale Estates offers a charming scene with local breweries, cafes, and relaxed hangout spots.

Whether you’re visiting or new to the city, these are just a few of the places that reflect the heart and soul of Atlanta—and the kind of experience we at MAC Brown LLC are proud to help our clients enjoy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The foundation of my business journey was laid by my Godfather, a successful entrepreneur who not only gave me my first opportunity at ownership but also inspired countless young men in our neighborhood to rise above circumstances and strive for greatness. His influence instilled in me the belief that success is possible with guidance, vision, and discipline.

Two of my closest friends, Marshall Blossomgame and Osman Abdulahi, also played a pivotal role in shaping my work ethic. Marshall, a true jack of all trades, approached everything with precision and perfectionism. Osman, equally driven, taught me the value of executing quickly and correctly, always with an eye on the next challenge. Their balance of speed and quality continues to influence how I approach both life and business.

But my greatest inspiration is my mother. In 1981, she brought our family to the U.S. from England, where she had been a Registered Nurse and midwife since earning her degree at just 20 years old in 1957. After marrying my father, a native of Guyana, and later divorcing, she had the courage to start over in Atlanta to be closer to family. Despite already being highly qualified, she returned to school, earned her LPN, and retook the boards to become a Registered Nurse in the United States—a powerful testament to resilience and perseverance. Watching her rebuild from the ground up taught me that nothing is impossible with faith, determination, and hard work.

These individuals and experiences have shaped not just my business acumen, but my character. I carry their lessons with pride and purpose every step of the way.

Website: https://www.macbrownluxurytransportation.com

Instagram: macbrownluxurytransportation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/macbrownllc

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mac-brown-atlanta

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.