RICHMOND, Va. -- Alfred Angelo, a chain of bridal stores with one location in Short Pump, unexpectedly closed this week, according to the Central Virginia Better Business Bureau and national reports.
Some brides in the Richmond-area reported receiving phone calls that their dresses were being held unless payments were received.
"It is extremely important that victims contact the bankruptcy court," BBB President and CEO Tom Gallagher said. “Let us know if we can help in anyway, and we will provide updated information as it comes to our office.”
The Florida-based company, with more than 60-stores nationwide, has not yet filed for bankruptcy, Gallagher added.
'Their dresses are to die for'
News of the closure stressed out a Chesterfield bride-to-be whose wedding is planned for November.
"Their dresses are to die for and they're worth it," said the anxious bride, who spoke to WTVR CBS 6 on the condition of anonymity. "My wedding is in November 18th. I don't know what to do."
The woman, who said she bought a $2,000 gown and her bridesmaids spent hundreds of dollars on their dresses, told the CBS 6 Problem Solvers she got a call Thursday from a store rep saying her dress was ready and she would have to pick it up before the store closed at 8 p.m.
"She said the company is going bankrupt," the woman said.
But when she arrived to the store around 4:30 that afternoon, a “closed” sign was posted on the front door.
The woman said she reached out to the attorney representing the bridal shop who told her they would get back to her soon.
“I’m a plan B type of person. I have to have back up. I can’t wait on someone else. Even though its money lost, I have to eventually chuck that up and move on. As sad as it sounds," she explained.
Late Friday WTVR CBS 6 learned the store manager will Fed-Ex gowns and bridesmaid dresses that were already paid for and are at the store.
That Chesterfield woman said she called Fed-Ex and got a tracking number. Her dress was delivered to her home Saturday afternoon.
Bankruptcy court in West Palm Beach, Florida can be reached at 561-514-4100, he said.
Competitors offer discounts
David's Bridal, a competitor, is offering a discount to anyone who purchased wedding or bridesmaid dresses from Alfred Angelo and didn't receive them. With an Alfred Angelo receipt, customers will receive 30% off wedding dresses and 20% off bridesmaid dresses.
Additionally, Sweet Temptationsis also offering impacted brides discounted baked goods.
If you're impacted by Alfred Angelo's closure, email the newsroom here.
