Alfred Angelo Shutters Stores Across the Country—Here’s What to Do If You’re Affected
On Thursday, July 13, popular bridal retailer Alfred Angelo, based in Delray Beach, Florida, abruptly closed its U.S. stores (the company had more than 60 and over 1,000 wholesale locations) and filed for bankruptcy. This was very unwelcome news to so many couples depending on Alfred Angelo for their wedding dresses, tuxedos, bridesmaid dresses and more.
While some brides reportedly got lucky and were contacted to pick up their items ASAP, others didn’t fare as well. Some were completely unaware about the status of their current orders, while other people’s wedding-related items were locked inside closed stores. For those in need of help finding a new wedding dress and other formalwear items, here’s what you can do:
1. Check In With Local Retailers
Definitely check out bridal salons and shops in your area. Many local retailers are extending help to Alfred Angelo brides and bridesmaids impacted by the bankruptcy. See if you can buy anything off the rack, receive a discount due to the circumstances, or get a rush alterations done.
Coincidentally, the National Bridal Sale Event started on July 15, hours after the bankruptcy news broke. In response to the store closings, the NBSE decided that the weeklong event be extended through the end of July to help unfortunate brides. Hundreds of local stores are participating in the event, so check the full list to see what local bridal boutiques are offering.
Bridal retailer Alfred Angelo closed stores across the US and filed for bankruptcy on Thursday, July 13. Here’s how to handle the situation if you’re affected by the closings. (Photo credit: istock)
2. Check In With National Retailers
Retailers like David’s Bridal and BHLDN have offered special discounts for brides and bridesmaids impacted by the Alfred Angelo closures with some wedding dresses marked at 30 percent off and bridesmaid dresses discounted at 20 percent. Rush alterations fees and expedited shipping have, in some instances, also been waived among other deals.
Brideside, one of the largest retailers to carry Alfred Angelo, released a statement this weekend about the ongoing situation. The team has been working directly with other designers to arrange discounts and rush options (free of charge) for any brides and bridesmaids affected by Alfred Angelo’s closing. Brideside also maintains that customers have the option of receiving a refund or credit, but the company says it would like to help brides-in-need find new options. Click here for more.
Startups like Floravere and have even offered free sample gowns to Alfred Angelo brides. Bridesmaid rental service Vow To Be Chic is also giving impacted maids a 10 percent discount with its promo code (VOWTOHELP10).
3. Talk to The Knot
Your go-to wedding planning resource, The Knot, has opened a digital help line for those affected by Alfred Angelo’s failure. The email, dress911@theknot.com, is live and ready to service you.
Popular bridal dress company Alfred Angelo went bankrupt on July 14, and here’s how the bridal industry is currently responding and helping affected brides and bridesmaids. Read The Knot exclusive here. (Maria Valentino/ MCV Photo)
4. Connect on social media with other couples by using the hashtag #AlfredAngelo.
The to-be-wed and married community is extremely sympathetic and helpful with other to-be-weds who need help, and there’s a chance that someone can lend you their dress or other items you may need, like this Twitter user.
There’s also a Facebook group specifically focused on the current situation. Discuss with other brides and wedding parties for possible solutions.
In addition to the above options, there are additional retailers offering discounts on The Knot Facebook page, so click through for more options.
Alfred Angelo Spring 2017 Collection. (Maria Valentino/ MCV Photo)
5. Explore your legal rights.
Speak to a lawyer or legal expert about how small claims courts work in your area if you have a signed contract.
This story has been updated with the latest information.
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