More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A soon-to-be-wed couple might be the unluckiest in Kent after a series of setbacks ahead of their big day.
Not only did their venue close and make-up artist pull out, but Gravesend couple Natasha Bailey and Russell Griggs' problems got worse when they received a message from their caterers.
Cater 2 contacted the pair on Facebook to tell them they were unable to provide food for the wedding on November 1 - despite having been paid the full £527.50.
The news was a bitter blow for Miss Bailey and Mr Griggs, who are trying to plan their big day on a £4,000 budget.
The pair, who are living with Miss Bailey's mother to save money, are now scrambling to arrange dinner for their 150 guests.
They have been told they can expect a refund of £300 on October 28 – just days before the event.
A relationship breakdown between the company's business partners was given as the reason for the no-show.
The firm explained problems began on September 18, but Miss Bailey and Mr Griggs had no idea their plans were in disarray until they contacted Cater 2 to ask how things were going.
Miss Bailey, 31, of Truro Road, said: "I feel distraught. We have nowhere to turn. We have no money and 150 guests to feed. It is so stressful. He has promised me £300 on October 28 and I'm counting on that money to buy all the food with.
"We have done it on such a small budget and to have more than £500 taken out of it is a massive chunk."
Mr Griggs, 29, said: "Just when we got to the point where we thought we could relax until the big day, we get hit by this bombshell."
Cater 2, based in Pembroke Parade, Erith, apologised to Miss Bailey and Mr Griggs for having to pull out.
The couple are the company's last booking before being wound up.
Business partner John Turner said: "I'm trying my best to help this couple and there is nothing else I can do.
"I'm so tired and stressed. We have had nothing but bad luck..." - Natasha Bailey
"I am giving them a £300 refund and I am going to help them with their own catering on the day.
"It is all I can do in the situation. I have been trying to contact my business partner about this booking, but to no avail."
The couple's scramble for new caterers is the latest in a series of problems.
Their reception was originally going to be held at Fleet Leisure in Northfleet, but the venue went into administration last month.
They will now hold the big day at the Elite Venue in Kings Farm. The original make-up artist also withdrew after a disagreement over the contract, with Miss Bailey now taking advice from Trading Standards.
She said: "I'm so tired and stressed. We have had nothing but bad luck."
