References when my manager was laid off too after 8 years as a retail manager

The company closed and I am not sure how to reach former colleagues. There are 8 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. A colleague offered to vouch for me. Is a client acceptable?

I kept a note of my results so my references could be specific. They appreciated it.

Ask former colleagues and supervisors in a short message and give them a summary of the job you are applying for.