ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – The legal team representing the owner of Chez L’Amour said refunds are being offered to customers affected by the restaurant’s abrupt closing.
RELATED: Owner of St. Augustine wedding venue that abruptly closed working to give ‘full and timely refunds’
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It’s been a major setback for those trying to get their money back.
“It was stressful in the moment because you know we’re coming up on our wedding in November, and it’s getting closer and closer,” an anonymous bride said.
Attorney Richard Brooks of the St. Augustine Law Group, who is representing Chez L’Amour owner Jeanetta Cebollero, said refunds are being offered in batches, primarily through installment agreements.
Brooks’ office said the first offers were sent in early October to nine parties. One party has fully executed a settlement agreement and two others are in the process of formalizing settlements, the law group said. The remaining customers have pursued credit card chargebacks to recover money.
Annalisse Cologna, who paid $2,500 for the venue, confirmed by text that she received a refund through her credit card company. Another bride, who asked to remain anonymous, said she paid $3,000 and that she got her money back through American Express.
Both said the funds were returned by their credit card companies, not by the restaurant owner.
According to a letter from the St. Augustine Law Group, the restaurant closed after failing several critical building inspections, which led to an ongoing legal dispute with the landlord.
News4JAX has learned the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office is investigating complaints filed against the business.
Couples said many found out about the closure through social media and word of mouth rather than direct notice from the owner.