Claremont wine lovers are preparing to say goodbye to their beloved Village wine bar.

The Village West’s WineStyles is closing its doors in Claremont after more than 4 years serving up vino to its patrons, but not without a party.

Owners Elie and Sharla Joseph are hosting a “going away” celebration this Friday, April 13, to thank customers for their support. The party will run from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.  

“We have been part of many lives and this is what I will miss most: a gathering place where people felt at home,” Mr. Joseph expressed in a letter to customers Monday morning. “We feel we have made great friends and been a part of many wonderful celebrations. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your loyalty and patronage.”

All items in the store, wine and furniture included, will be offered at a discounted price as the Josephs prepare to close shop. WineStyles’ last day is tentatively set for this Friday, or until inventory is gone, according to Mr. Joseph.

It is unfortunately another tale of economic woe as local mom and pop shops are forced to fold because of the uneasy financial climate.

“We have tried, over the past year and a half, to do everything we could to minimize the impact of decreased consumer spending and control our expenses, but have not been able to bring our sales volume back to where it needs to be to keep the store open,” Mr. Joseph wrote.

Friday’s celebration is bittersweet for the couple, who grew up in Claremont and attended local schools.

We grew up here and we just felt like we wanted to say thank you to the community for supporting us,” Mr. Joseph said, maintaining a positive mindset. “One chapter is closing, but another is opening.”

—Beth Hartnett