George and Ellice Martin were Canadians living in the Bahamas. George was a CPA with a Public Accounting practice and he decided to start a career in merchandising. He and Ellice had vacationed in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, so they decided to check out the town. They liked the tourism activity so they decided to move there. They knew that table linens were popular in the Islands and George had a connection to a supplier, so Mr. Tablecloth the store, was created.
Mr. Tablecloth features beautiful items for the home. Embroidered toppers, runners and tablecloths. Great gifts for one’s own home or a gift that will always be remembered. Mr. Tablecloth expanded its line to Home Décor and added bed quilts, Heritage Lace and Vera Bradley purses, luggage and accessories. They changed their name to Mr. Tablecloth and More and in 2005 added a location in Pigeon Forge, which carries everything but quilts.
Mr. Tablecloth and More began business in a storefront – formerly Corky’s – next to Ogle’s Buffet – now Hardrock Café – in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee. In 1998 they moved to their current location on Historic Nature Trail at Stoplight # 8. The store began with George, Ellice and 3 employees. Today there are 16 employees working at Mr. Tablecloth and More.
| George and Ellice |
Originally George and Ellice were from Alberta, Canada, and they still have a son who lives in Toronto. Another son, Gerry, works with George and Ellice, another son lives in Knoxville and a daughter lives in Cincinnati. They have 7 grandchildren.
Part of the charm of Mr. Tablecloth the store are the owners, George and Ellice Martin. They both enjoy meeting people and have formed many long-lasting friendships with visitors who have come into the store and returned year after year.
Mr. Tablecloth’s staff reflects the warmth of the owners and are knowledgeable and friendly. They make you feel like you are visiting friends and helping them select beautiful items for a home that you will be visiting.
| “The Girls” |