Sept. 2, 2009

Hundreds of brides lined up in front of Madelynn's in Emporia to get wedding dresses.

The Kansas Revenue Department seized the assets Tuesday of the Emporia bridal shop.

The state says Madelynn's, 511 Commercial St., owes $97,149.88 in sales and withholding tax dating back to 2005.

The Lyon County Sheriff's Office assisted the state Tuesday morning in closing the business and seizing on-site cash, inventory and personal property. The assets will be sold at auction to pay toward delinquent tax.

Customers who had merchandise at the store will have a chance to pick up their items. State agents will be there starting at 10 am Wednesday to assist as many people as possible. Customers should bring their receipt or a copy of their receipt.

Customers may also call 785-296-6130 to make arrangements.

The state says continually works with delinquent taxpayers to voluntarily enter repayment agreements. They say they only take seizure action when multiple collection attempts fail.

Dozens of brides received their dresses Wednesday, others who paid in full left empty handed. The dresses they ordered haven't come in yet. State agents say they will continue to work with the customers hoping to get their gowns to them before their wedding day.