Meet Michael Marks | Business owner & service member

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

Hi Michael, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After retiring from the military, I knew I wanted to jump into my next chapter with a solid plan. I didn’t wait until the last minute to figure things out—I started thinking about a business idea that could be profitable, fulfilling, and allow me to use my skills.

I’ve always loved cars and working with my hands, so starting a window tinting business felt like the perfect fit. Now, I get to do something I’m passionate about while helping others enhance their vehicles and spaces. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m proud to provide a service that combines precision, quality, and care.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
In 2021, I started my business from my garage with a simple goal: to provide high-quality automotive window tinting at an affordable price, especially for service members and their community. This passion for excellence stems from the values instilled in me during my service to our country, and it drives everything we do at Total Eclipse Tinting.

What makes me most proud is that, even as a small company, we hold our own against some of the biggest tint shops in the area. That tells me we’re doing something right. Our focus has always been on quality over quantity. While many tint shops prioritize how many cars they can get through in a day, my goal has always been to deliver exceptional work on every vehicle that comes through our doors.

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. Running a business while on active duty came with its own unique challenges. But through hard work, determination, and a commitment to my vision, I’ve kept moving forward. I’ve learned to see failures not as setbacks, but as opportunities to grow and improve.

What I want the world to know is that every great achievement starts with an idea. Total Eclipse Tinting began as just that—a simple idea I believed in and worked hard to bring to life.

If I can do it, anyone can. Dream big, work hard, and never let fear limit your vision

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, I’d make sure they get the full El Paso experience! It’s such a unique city with so much to offer. Here’s how I’d plan it out:

Day 1: I’d start with breakfast at Salt + Honey Bakery Café—their coffee and pastries are perfect to kick off the trip. Then, we’d head to the Scenic Drive Overlook to take in the incredible view of El Paso and Juárez. For lunch, I’d take them to L&J Café, a local institution for Tex-Mex. In the evening, we’d walk around downtown to check out the murals and street art, and finish with drinks at DeadBeach Brewery—they’ve got some amazing local brews.

Day 2: The next day would be all about outdoor adventures. We’d grab breakfast burritos from H&H Car Wash and Coffee Shop, then head to Franklin Mountains State Park for a hike. Lunch would be at The Hoppy Monk, which has great food and craft beer. We’d end the day with a relaxed evening at Ascarate Park, maybe watching the sunset by the lake.

Day 3: This day would focus on history and culture. After a light breakfast, we’d visit Hueco Tanks State Park to learn about ancient rock art and maybe even do some light climbing. Lunch would be at Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar—their machaca plate is legendary. Then we’d check out the El Paso Museum of Art and stroll through the historic Plaza Theatre area.

Day 4: For some shopping and nightlife, I’d take them to The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso or some unique local stores. Lunch at Ardovino’s Desert Crossing would be perfect—it’s a little more upscale but still reflects the area’s vibe. That evening, we’d hit up Rubiks Arcade Bar or Blackbird Cantina Deluxe for some fun and cocktails.

Day 5: I’d take them on a day trip to White Sands National Park, which is about an hour and a half away. We’d grab breakfast burritos to go from Rosa’s Cantina and spend the day exploring the dunes. On the way back, we’d stop for dinner at West Texas Chophouse.

Day 6: I’d show them the San Elizario Historic District, which is full of art galleries and history. Lunch would be at Cattleman’s Steakhouse—it’s a bit of a drive, but it’s an iconic Texas experience. In the evening, we’d catch some live music at The Tap, which has a great dive-bar vibe and awesome nachos.

Day 7: For the last day, we’d have a hearty breakfast at Crave Kitchen and Bar, visit the Chamizal National Memorial to learn a bit more about the region’s history, and then grab some tacos at Tacoholics before heading to the airport.

El Paso has so much to offer—from its rich culture and incredible food to its natural beauty. I’d want my friend to leave feeling like they’ve truly experienced the heart of this city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
While starting this business has been a rewarding journey, I have to give credit where it’s due—my family, especially my wife, Tia, has been my biggest inspiration and supporter. Without her consent and encouragement, none of this would have been possible.

She’s my sounding board when I have ideas, my cheerleader when things are going well, and the push I need when I need to get back on my feet. I’m truly blessed to have such an amazing partner who believes in me and keeps me striving for more every day.

Website: https://www.totaleclipsetinting.com

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