Fine cooking and country living suits this B & B

The superlatives to describe Moss Gate Bed & Breakfast are nearly as endless as the acres of this former plantation house and sprawling orange grove.

With lakefront views and immaculately manicured grounds, Moss Gate Bed & Breakfast is a popular location for wedding ceremonies and receptions. One of the unique traits of this bed and breakfast for engaged couples is its ornate chapel complete with an altar.

Laura Wright has owned the cozy Moss Gate Bed & Breakfast for seven years. As a former owner of floral shops and restaurants, she knows the finishing touches help bring customers back for more.

"I do more than just a traditional B & B," said Wright. "When people come here it's usually for a special occasion. So, I do not serve too many bowls of oatmeal."

In fact, Wright does all the cooking for guests. With a book of more than 100 different menus, she can prepare lavish spreads for weddings, family reunions, chamber of commerce events and fundraisers. On the other hand, she can cook a romantic meal for two.

Moss Gate is the first bed and breakfast in the sleepy town of Umatilla. Its guests are often an eclectic group with varying interests: sometimes its equestrian riders in for a weekend competition at Rocking Horse Stables or "fly-ins" from the Umatilla airport. Other guests are looking for a quick vacation getaway or that natural experience of visiting the nearby Ocala National Forest.

"I think if you are a people person, which I am, I think its great being an owner of a bed and breakfast," Wright said. "I get to meet people from all over every day, including England and Sweden."