We caught up with ‘Old Sport’ Austin Marks a week after his signing with JLB Patron Party. A veteran of the runway, Marks has become one of the most well-known faces on the JLB scene. But don’t be intimidated by his dignified charm and boyish good looks, off the runway he is remarkably sweet and down to earth.
What’s your tie to the JLB?
Growing up my Mother, Clara Marks, was actively involved in the JLB. She’s currently a Sustainer. I have fond memories of hanging out over at the Bargain Box on Brown Street playing inside of the clothes racks and hiding from my older sister, Jennifer, while she tried to make me play dress up with all the clothes. I also remember getting to meet some of my idols such as Gordie Howe and Ernie Harwell at the old JLB fashion shows at Jacobsen’s in Birmingham. I even walked the runway as a model back then too!
After getting married to my wife Stacy Marks, we decided it would be fun for her to get involved in the JLB as well. While I miss playing at the Bargain Box, I do enjoy the parties a little more now!
How long have you been involved in the League?
Almost as long as I can remember – I believe my Mother joined in 1985 or 1986, so just about 30 years!
Give us one word that you would describe the Junior League of Birmingham.
Poised. The word means composed, dignified, and self-assured.
Who has been the biggest supporter of your modeling career?
Outside of the harassing talent scouts that constantly barrage my mobile and email, I would have to say my wife Stacy and our two daughters, Jane & Elle. They are always commenting on how they have the most handsome Daddy in the whole world!
How do you cope with the pressures of being a model?
I enjoy time alone in the woods or in a blind hunting deer, waterfowl, geese, and turkey. Several hours/days alone in the woods allows you to block out the outside world, compose yourself, and enjoy a spiritual experience with nature while offering great time for introspection.
What beauty tips do you swear by?
Play lots of golf! It’s a good way to get Vitamin D. Only shave 2x a week max. No razor burn!
If you were not a JLB model what would you be?
While it’s hard to imagine such a scenario, I would probably be working here in Birmingham in sales for the casino gaming and automotive industries, as well as spending quality time with my beautiful wife and children and my two chocolate labs Biggie and Duffy. That or going back to my old gig as a YM and Teen Magazine cover model.
Junior League of Birmingham 