APOPKA, Fla. — An historic home on the lake seems like the perfect place to get married. As of Wednesday, Highland Manor shut down, leaving dozens of brides to be with no place to get married and no deposit returned.
The couples said they found out through an email from vendors that the venue shut down with no explanation and more than 200 events scheduled, including 60 weddings.
"It certainly does look like they jumped ship. There's no phone call. You can't leave a message," said Kathleen Gossman, a mother of a bride to be.
Gossman had no problem paying the $1,500 deposit to secure her daughter's wedding at Highland Manor. Gossman said the home is nestled on secluded grounds along main street in Apopka. The owner said he promises an unforgettable experience for weddings or corporate events.
"You're talking a minimum of $1,500 just to book here," said Gossman.
The city of Apopka owns the property but leased the space to businessman Richard Wilhelm last year after two previous owners also suddenly shut down.
Officials said Wilhelm is being evicted because he hasn't paid rent in months and owes more than $100,000.
WFTV asked Apopka officials why the city let the owner go so long without paying, knowing they were still booking and hosting events.
"It's not our business. We're just a landlord, if you will. We have nothing to do with the running of the business," said Richard Anderson, a Chief Administrative Officer in Apopka.
The wedding planner and chef of Highland Manor said they had no idea the owner was behind in rent until two weeks ago when they stopped getting paid.
Gossman has already filed a complaint with the city and plans to sue in civil court, but she said Apopka taxpayers should be furious, too.
"If they are into the city for that much money and the city is not making money, I would be mighty upset," said Gossman.
City officials said they have some offers from potential tenants, but there is no guarantee they will honor any deposits given to the previous owner.
WFTV
