COMMERCE, Calif. (KABC) — A Southern California party venue business that once hosted weddings, quincea\u00f1eras and sweet 16 celebrations has shut down both of its locations, leaving families scrambling and demanding refunds as investigators pursue criminal charges against one of its operators.<\/p>\n
The Rustic and Chic Company, which ran event halls in Commerce and South El Monte, closed abruptly last month. Customers say they were left without venues sometimes just days before major events — and without refunds for thousands of dollars in payments.<\/p>\n
Angelica Velasco booked the company’s Commerce hall for her daughter Bella’s sweet 16. She spoke to Eyewitness News in an interview outside the venue that’s now closed for good.<\/p>\n
“It’s heartbreaking, it’s heartbreaking,” she said.<\/p>\n
Bella’s party was scheduled for Aug. 7. Velasco said she had already paid more than $10,000 when she received an email five days before the event stating that “due to unforeseen circumstances, we are unable to accommodate your event.”<\/p>\n
“We acknowledge your right to seek legal recourse if necessary,” the email added.<\/p>\n
“I was angry. I felt depressed,” said Velasco. “I felt accomplished that I was able to do this for my daughter, you know, provide her something I never had.” Velasco said the company did not offer her a refund.<\/p>\n
Two days later, Rustic and Chic sent another email announcing it, “can no longer continue operations.” The message claimed the business “has experienced significant operational and financial challenges following extensive public attention…including media coverage by ABC Channel 7.”<\/p>\n
Maria Bonilla, another customer, dismissed that explanation.<\/p>\n
Families who were planning Quincea\u00f1eras, Sweet 16s and weddings said an South El Monte party venue abruptly shut down before their events, leaving them scrambling to salvage milestone celebrations.<\/p>\n
“Pretty much they’re just finding an excuse,” she said.<\/p>\n