07/22/2024
Gown and Tux Rental was founded and run by Ronald and Marie Schoen. About 30 years ago, Mrs. Marie hired me to work for her at Gown and Tux Rental. When she decided to sell the store in January of 2001, she asked if I wanted to buy it. She wanted someone who would care for the store as much as she did. After discussing with my family and praying, we decided that buying the business would suit us well. In June 2001, I officially took over the store and renamed it Gown & Tux. The business expanded from offering wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and tuxedos to adding prom gowns and tuxedos and other accessories.
I have enjoyed my job through all the years, both the good and the bad. I tried to treat the people who came through the door as family. What most people don't know is that in 2018 I lost my son to su***de. That was the night that hurricane Florence struck, and we had to delay his funeral because of the flooding. I kept working that week because I had events scheduled. Nine months later I lost my daddy, one year later my sister and then in October of last year my mom. I only took time off for the days of the funerals. Nothing is worse than losing your child. But losing so many in my family in such a short time was very hard. The store was my refuge for the last five years, because it helped me avoid the pain. I could experience joy through other people's happiness. I can't get back the time I missed with my family, but I can make time for those who are still here.
So, I'm very sad and heavy-hearted to announce that I will be closing Gown & Tux. Our last day will be on Monday, September 30, 2024. I want to thank everyone who let me make their event special. I will miss the friendships I have made along the way, and I will miss seeing you all. I am grateful to have worked with such a wonderful community. I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds my hand and I will follow His lead.
If you are looking for a way to show your appreciation and support for Gown & Tux, we would love to hear from you. You can send us a card or stop by the store to say goodbye. We would also appreciate it if you could spread the word about our clearance sale and help us find new homes for our beautiful dresses and furniture. We will be having a huge clearance sale on all our inventory as everything will need to go. Don't miss this opportunity to save big and look fabulous. Special dresses and Tuxedoes for events can still be ordered or rented until September 14th. We want to make our final days memorable and enjoyable for everyone. Thank you for being part of our journey and for letting us be part of yours.
