Several brides are in an uproar after the bridal shop they had chosen to provide for their weddings abruptly closed its doors earlier this month. The South Carolina based Bella Vista Bridal and Wedding Boutique filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on Aug. 29, leaving many brides wondering where their gowns and dresses will come from. The bankruptcy paperwork lists several hundred thousand dollars' worth of personal and business debt.
A Chapter 7 filing means the individual's personal and business assets will all be liquidated in order to satisfy outstanding creditors, but in this case, some of those creditors are brides who would rather receive their promised wedding attire than a simple refund. Though the owner of the boutique could not be reached for comment, his legal representation assured brides that he was "very concerned" about ensuring they received their dresses. With the business now under control of a representative of the bankruptcy court, whether this will be the case is unclear.
So far, the only word from the representative has been a note to creditors -- including the brides -- stating that further instructions would be forthcoming. There is some evidence to suggest the store was in disrepair at the time it closed its doors, and that health concerns were presented by staff and clients. In the meantime, some brides have decided not to take any chances, and are seeking alternative arrangements for their respective big days.
While a Chapter 7 filing can be difficult to accept for a South Carolina business owner struggling to keep their business afloat, not all is lost in the case of bankruptcy. A Chapter 7 means clearing the slate with creditors and paving the way for a better future for a business owner. The dissolution of one business can very easily lead into the building of a new -- and better -- business tomorrow.
Source: The State, Columbia bridal boutique, bakery declare bankruptcy, Kristy Eppley Rupon, Aug. 30, 2013
