Alfred Angelo Bridal, one of the largest retailers and manufacturers of bridal gowns, closed its stores nationwide.
Alfred Angelo designs are sold at 1,400 retailers across the world with more than 60 stores in the U.S.
Many angry brides and customers went to social media to share their frustration and concern.
SUDDEN SHUTDOWN: panicked brides-to-be rushed to Tampa's Alfred Angelo after news they'd be closing the doors for good. @abcactionnews pic.twitter.com/W14fL4LsIH
— Ryan Smith (@RyanReports) July 14, 2017
As if wedding planning wasn't stressful enough, future brides across Tampa Bay found out their perfect wedding dress was in jeopardy. An employee at Alfred Angelo Bridal in Tampa told ABC Action News the store was permanently closing its doors at 8 p.m.
"They were blindsided, we were blindsided, all I can do is hope for the best," said Katelin Russ.
"I was kind of panicking when I got the news this afternoon," said Heather Kirk. "I have cried four times today."
Kristina Keller rushed from Clearwater after seeing a Facebook post warning Alfred Angelo Bridal would close in a matter of hours.
"Panic, desperation," said Keller. "Oh my gosh I need to drive to Tampa right now and I'm not leaving without my dress."
The bridal shop promises that the dresses not picked up will be shipped out to customers.
"This store is going above and beyond," said Kirk. "They are in there right now packing up boxes so they can send brides their dresses."
Staff told customers with questions or concerns to contact Patricia Redmond, a Miami-based attorney, at (305) 789-3553.
According to the company's website, "if you recently purchased a wedding dress or bridesmaid dress from an Alfred Angelo retail store and did not receive it, they are offering a discount on a replacement dress of your choice." All you have to do is visit any David’s Bridal location in the U.S. and present your original branded Alfred Angelo retail receipt to receive the following special discounts:
- Wedding dresses: 30% off the current price (includes current promotions and clearance prices)
- Bridesmaid dresses: 20% off current price (includes current promotions and clearance prices)
- Alterations: Rush fees waived to help meet event dates
- Alterations services will be available for Alfred Angelo dresses
