Weddingbee boards

I am posting this mostly to warn other brides to be out there and also see if anyone can help me in my case.

My wedding date is supposed to be June 2nd 2012.  I say supposed to be because I don't know as of today if there even WILL be a wedding.

We booked a venue in Alameda, CA last May.  Gave a deposit to hold the venue and setup a tasting for September.  All was going well and nothing seemed odd.  Our tasting went well and the event coordinator, Maria, told us we had to put a 2nd deposit down to hold the caterer as well.  We did, signed a contract with her and again everything seemed good.

Then from October until December, I would have a hard time getting a hold of Maria.  Never returned my calls or emails with questions I had about my wedding plans.  I was getting worried and frustrated.

January comes and we decided to drive by the venue to check it out one weekend. Posted up are eviction signs, building is locked and empty.  The event coordinator had been evicted.  I contacted the building owner who told me, Maria had not paid rent and they are in a lawsuit.  I told the building owner about my wedding contract with Maria and the owner... who HAD NO CLUE ABOUT ME... was sympathtic and is currently trying to see if I can still have my wedding at the venue.

Now to make matters worse, I have to seek legal assistance to get my money back from Maria.  She took about half our budget and is not responding to any emails or calls.

Since we have, no money for a new venue.. I cannot as well afford legal fees.  

Do not let this happen to any future brides out there.  I believe she was a scam and now I am hoping to recover at least SOME of my money back.

Anyone else out there who can offer some help for me, I really appreciate it.

I still hope I can have my wedding, however it is not looking too bright for me :(

@abbie017: thanks.  unfortunately the amount we lost is greater than small claims limit.  At this point I am hoping to find a lawyer who would represent me on contingency and hope we are able to recover SOME money.