A Bridgerton-inspired ball held in Detroit over the weekend has left fans of the popular Netflix series frustrated and demanding refunds. The unofficial event, organized by Uncle & Me LLC, promised attendees “an evening of sophistication, grace, and historical charm” but fell far short of expectations.

Guests, who paid between $150 and $250 for tickets, arrived at the Harmonie Club to find a sparsely decorated venue with what some described as “dollar store” backdrops. 

The promised entertainment, which was supposed to include ballroom dancing and a full orchestra, consisted of a single violinist and, surprisingly—and also maybe not-so-appropriately?— a pole dancer.

Attendees took to social media to express their disappointment, sharing photos and videos of the supposedly magical evening. People couldn’t help but compare the fiasco to infamous failures like the Fyre Festival and the recent Willy Wonka experience in Glasgow.

VIP ticket holders reported the absence of the promised valet service, forcing them to pay for parking. The food, when available, was criticized as undercooked or cold, with some guests claiming it ran out early. The advertised “Diamond of the Season” moment and prize giveaways reportedly also didn’t happen.

Uncle & Me LLC has since apologized for the ball’s shortcomings. In a statement to local media, the company said, “We understand that not everyone had the experience they hoped for… We take full responsibility and accountability for these shortcomings.” They promised to review resolution options for disappointed guests.

“Your understanding and loyalty mean the world to us, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to make this right.”

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