Bridal store closure causing stress for brides

PHOENIX (KSAZ) -- Getting married is supposed to be one of the most important moments in a person's life, but for a Valley woman, planning her wedding has turned into a nightmare.

Maddi DiSabatino's wedding date was set, but she has no wedding dress after the store she bought it from suddenly shut down. DiSabatino said she shopped at Bridal Boutiques of Arizona in April to pick out her dress. She spent over $3,000 at this shop, which was located at 7th Street in Phoenix. She was originally told her dress would be ready by now, but at some point, Bridal Boutiques of Arizona closed its doors. and DiSabatino was shocked to find out about the closure, when she called to check on her dress on Monday.

"My wedding is in five months, and there's no way to order the dress that I want," said DiSabatino.

When FOX 10 crews showed up to the business on Tuesday, a note was seen posted on the front door, telling customers to call a number for help in tracking down their dress. When our crews called the number, however, the former business partner told us he had cut ties with the owner months ago, and cannot help these women get their dress or recoup their money.

"We can't afford another dress, so not really sure what to do yet. Still kind of in shock I guess," said DiSabatino, who has since filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and the Arizona Attorney General's Office.

"Obviously, there are other brides who have paid money here, and probably don't know that they're closed," said DiSabatino.

Officials with the Attorney General's Office are asking any other potential victims of this business to come forward and file a complaint with them. Officials also said brides should do their homework, and check online reviews. They also say people should pay with their credit card, which has more legal recourse. If a bride has bought a dress and the shop doesn't give it to them, they can contact their credit card company, and ask for a chargeback.

Experts say one big, red flag is a store asking customers to pay, in full, before delivering a dress.

Arizona Attorney General's Office - Consumer Complaints
https://www.azag.gov/complaints/consumer