WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) – Elegant Occasions, which has served Wausau area wedding parties and high school formal events, has announced it will be closing.

Store Owner Greta Wood told NewsChannel 7 they will be in the building until March of 2024 which will give them several months to continue serving the community, including offering brand new dresses.

She said her favorite part about owning and running the business has been creating life moments for so many people.

“Those life moments have been with thousands of brides in our area, but also with the 208 women that I’ve employed and worked side by side with for so long. There have been with hundreds of models that have walked fashion shows for me, and they’ve been with my family and friends that have stayed by my side through four buildings, and over 60 bridal and fashion shows. This journey has taught me so much and I will cherish the memories of so many who have joined me along the way,” Wood explained.

She said it wasn’t the plan to end the business right now, but decided to take the opportunity and ultimately retire rather than build another store. The owners of Era Pancake & Cafe have purchased the building.

“This will give me a chance to spend time with all of my children before they leave home, which is such a blessing!”

In a letter to customers, Wood shared in part:

“Looking back on these 23 amazing years, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for the incredible support and loyalty this community has shown us. Elegant Occasions wouldn’t have become the success it is without you, our cherished customers. You’ve been more than just patrons; you’ve been dear friends who’ve shared in our joys, milestones, and celebrations.

While we are closing our doors, I want to assure you that all customer orders will continue to be handled with the same care and dedication as always. Please note that we will have our building for several months and we can still take care of our customer orders throughout the remaining time.”

Wood also expressed that if anyone has an interest in carrying on the Elegant Occasions brand or purchasing any remaining inventory to create their own store, to contact her.

Any questions can be sent to [email protected] or by texting 715-390-4396.

correction: NewsChannel 7 erroneously reported Wood owned the building. She does not. It was also reported the building will be torn down. The intentions of the new owners have not been released. We regret these errors.

Copyright 2023 WSAW. All rights reserved.