Ex-Employee Alleges Wage Theft as Hat Bridal Shop Liquidation Auction Looms

Karla Clute - From her Instagram

The controversy surrounding Magic Moments Bridal owner Karla Clute has deepened, with a former employee now coming forward with allegations of unpaid wages—adding to the growing list of financial grievances against the embattled business owner.

A former employee of Clute’s bridal shop claims they and other staff members were not paid in full for their work. The ex-employee, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation, told Owl News that paychecks were late, incomplete, or missing entirely, with Clute allegedly giving excuses or ignoring requests for payment.

"It wasn’t just customers who got ripped off—workers did too," the ex-staffer said. "Some of us quit because we couldn’t afford to keep working for promises instead of paychecks."

The wage theft allegations mirror complaints from customers who prepaid for graduation dresses that were never ordered or delivered. Despite Clute’s website directing refund requests to MMBInquiry@gmail.com many say their emails have gone unanswered for months.

Now, with an auction scheduled for September 20 at Magic Moments Bridal (3295 Dunmore Road SE), fears are mounting that Clute is liquidating assets while leaving employees, customers, and suppliers unpaid.

Scribner Auction, the company handling the sale, will auction off bridal inventory, store fixtures, and gowns.

"If she’s selling everything, where does that leave the people she still owes?" asked one frustrated parent.

Allegedly Defrauded customers say they are filing complaints with Consumer Protection Alberta.

Clute has not responded to requests for comment on the wage theft allegations or the upcoming auction. Or anything anyone’s asking… just try!