London looks set to lose another landmark business after the historic Idlewyld Inn closed, taking with it 20 jobs and leaving some with planned events in the lurch.
Jennifer Witchell and Kevin Teal's wedding is 19 days away, and they say they were overwhelmed with emotions when they first heard that their venue may be closing.
"Lots of panic, and then kind of, okay this can't be true and how do I find out...Just kind of a roller coaster I didn't know whether to laugh about it or cry or throw up," Witchell says.
That panic soon became a reality after receiving a confirmation email that the unique three-story Victorian mansion is closed.
"I was really looking forward to it," Teal says.
Witchell adds "Yeah, it was a beautiful spot and it really is unfortunate that we're losing it."
The venue has been under newer ownership for almost two years, and although owner Marcel Butchey is sad to see it go he also said it was simply time to move on...
"It just came a time after two years in business, that it became a business and personal decision to move on."
He is uncertain about the future of the establishment but has high hopes that it won't be on the market for too long.
"We gave it a good run and it was a great run and I thank everyone who supported us for the last two years and it wouldn't have been here without the staff and the support of the people."
As far as the soon-to-be-newlyweds go, they're trying to remain positive that the last minute change won't ruin their special day.
Witchell says "We're just trying to pick up the pieces and move on to the next plan and hopefully the day will happen."
