Today we’d like to introduce you to William Marrs.
Hi William, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story is similar to other entrepreneurs and inventors around the world. It started with an idea, I wanted to create a way to dispense toilet paper automatically without ever needing to touch it, protect the entire roll from the first to the last sheet, reduce unnecessary waste, and make it user-friendly. I didn’t have any background in engineering or technical knowledge of how to make this product, I simply knew that I had something special. I rushed to get the idea out of my head and onto paper as quickly as possible, so after one poorly drawn sketch the idea was born. From that sketch, out came my first prototype made of cardboard, held together with an enormous amount of tape. After several more prototypes, I applied for my first patent through the United States Patent and Trademark Office and was blessed beyond measure when it was granted in October 2013.
Since the inception of this idea, I have made it a personal mission of mine to surround myself with other like-minded, persistent, innovators and business owners who want to make their dreams come true just like myself. I have been fortunate to be part of organizations that have been instrumental in my development as an entrepreneur, such as The San Diego Small Business Development Center and SCORE San Diego. These two outstanding resources have paired me with mentors that have guided me throughout my startup journey. I recently had the pleasure of being a part of the inaugural 2021 Community Bootcamp for Entrepreneurs through San Diego State University and Center for Leadership and Entrepreneurial Studies. The six-week bootcamp provided countless resources, valuable real-world lessons from weekly guest speakers. I was also awarded the Dreamer and Doer Award at the conclusion of the program. During the bootcamp I met Professor Tanya Hertz, the director of the REC Innovation Accelerator program through San Diego Miramar College. I am now in my second semester and am learning what it takes to achieve my professional goals.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I have encountered several challenges, some expected and some that seemed to come out of nowhere. Most notably, after the invention came to me in March 2007. I saw a commercial on tv that advertised helping inventors take their ideas and turn them into reality. No experience applying for a patent. No problem. No manufacturing background expertise? No problem. Promises on top of promises. So, I said to myself “That’s me!” I called the 1-800 number, and several months later and several thousand dollars lighter. I had nothing, no product, no licensing contract, sometimes not even hope. This experience taught me lessons I still use today, the biggest is patience. Take your time, do your research on who you want to work with, so you don’t find yourself in this position again.
Locating a US based manufacturer to fit my company’s needs and within budget has been an increasingly difficult task to accomplish. Over the years, I have sought companies who certainly had the capability to bring my product to market, however the cost to do so was higher than I expected.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Earth to Marrs manufactures automatic toilet paper dispensers. Our dispensers are touchless and efficient, consuming 100% of the tissue roll every time for budget-conscious hotel owners and operators. Each tissue roll is enclosed to prevent the spread of unwanted germs and can easily be installed in seconds requiring no hardware, training, or installation skills. The large rear cavity is designed to virtually fit over any wall-mounted bath tissue holder.
We are driven to raise the standard for more efficient, sanitary, and eco-friendly products that simplify the lives of our customers and help create a hygienic environment for all by delivering inventive and innovative concepts and designs.
We recently launched our very first Kickstarter Campaign to raise $12,300 to produce three finalized prototypes. To date, I have raised $4,180. The campaign ends on Thursday, March 31st, 2022. This is an all or nothing approach. I will need to reach my target goal by the conclusion of the campaign to receive any of the donations. The funds will be used to pay for the plastic mold and for the development of electrical components necessary.
If you wish to donate, you can visit
How do you think about luck?
I am not a believer in luck. I believe in prayer, faith, and fasting. I also believe in actively working towards personal and professional goals. Five years ago, I resigned from a position from a local company and came off a bad breakup. My mother told me about a department within her company that generally had the hours I was looking for to continue working for my part-time employer and that allowed me to continue working on my business. I took the position, the hours worked with my schedule, and met some friends along the way. However, I was still suffering over the end of my past relationship. A little over a year into my new position, I met my best friend and fiancé, and set to be married this year. I’ll be father to the best daughter anyone could ever want or dream of. So, I don’t consider everything that transpired luck or perfect timing. I put my faith in God and now have more than I ever imagined.
Contact Info:
- Email: wamarrs@earthtomarrsco.com
- Website: earthtomarrsco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/earth.to.marrs/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Earth.to.Marrs
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/earth_to_marrs
Image Credits
Angela Merkins
