ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — The Sheriff’s Office in St. Johns County confirmed an investigation is underway into complaints against the individual managing a St. Augustine wedding venue, which unexpectedly shut down, causing financial losses for many couples.

Several brides say they are still waiting for refunds after Chez L’Amour, a venue operated by Jeanetta Cebollero, suddenly shut its doors last month.

“I’m not really holding my breath, but it would be nice,” commented bride Amy Mabe, who had spent thousands only to find out the venue had closed. “I kind of felt duped.”

The closure has led to a disagreement between Cebollero and her landlord. According to Cebollero, the venue closed because of maintenance issues, but the landlord has alleged she was behind on rent payments by a year.

During a phone interview, Cebollero explained she is planning to issue refunds to her clients, though she currently lacks the funds. She claims the money was used to address urgent repair needs at the venue.

“Unfortunately, keeping it open for day-to-day operations and needing to do those repairs, that’s where that went,” she said.

Cebollero also promised to donate event supplies to help brides offset costs and said she hopes to resolve any remaining agreements.

The complaints go beyond weddings. Danielle Moran, who purchased VIP tickets for the “As If 90’s Fest” promoted by Cebollero, stated she never received a refund after the event was canceled.

“This year we actually upgraded to VIP,” Moran said. “It was a little over $100, which was a lot for me, but I was excited about it.”

Cebollero insisted all refund requests for the festival were processed by June 14 and advised anyone who still has not received money to file a chargeback through their bank.

Her attorney, Richard Brooks with the St. Augustine Law Group, said customers awaiting refunds should contact his office directly.

Cebollero said she plans to reach out early next week to brides still waiting on refunds. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office confirmed its investigation is in the early stages.