Marlsgate Plantation is under new ownership for the first time in more than 30 years, but prospective brides need not panic — the Greek Revival mansion with a stately opulence that stands as a powerful reflection of the Old South will continue to serve as a popular venue for weddings and other special events. Like their longtime predecessor, David P. Garner Jr., the new owners, Beau, and Martha Ellen Talbot, say they will reside in the former Dortch family plantation about 14 miles southeast of Little Rock and keep its doors open to matrimonial ceremonies, tours, and other functions. But the couple say they are developing other programs to more fully tap the potential of the historic property. They include reopening the gift shop and selling products from a Southern lifestyle brand, Grand Prairie, that Martha Ellen has developed; offering classes in the social graces for young people as soon as this summer; and eventually, operating the site as a bed-and-breakfast.

Original Article Link: https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2017/may/14/estate-s-old-south-charms-drew-buyers-2