Whether you are having a large wedding, small wedding, or something in between, you’ll want to make sure you have a plan for the wedding day transportation.
Where do you start? It’s the 21st century, there are so many modes of transportation, the possibilities are endless. One of the first considerations that you’ll need to take into account is the type of transportation you want for the big day. Here are a few ideas:
- An Old Fashioned Trolley
- An SUV or Hummer Limosine
- A Limosine
- A Coach Bus
- A Rolls Royce or Antique Car
- A Horse & Buggy
These are just a few different ideas that you could use for your transportation. Once you have decided on the best method of transportation for you, you can start narrowing your list. Here are some excellent tips to help you ask the right questions and make sure you have a great experience selecting your transportation for the most important day of your life.
When should you book?
Eight months out is recommended for an antique car or a different mode of transportation other than a limosine. If you are in need of a limosine, about three months in advance is the norm.
Where is the best place to look for my wedding transportation?
Our website and web blog has several local vendors with links to their websites. The site includes everything from bus companies to trolley’s, antique cars, horse and buggy vendors, and limosines. Beyond that, I would ask any other wedding vendor if they have relationships with anyone, and they should be able to point you in the right direction.
Get everything in writing
Make sure that no matter who you are considering, be sure that they have a written contract or agreement that spells out everything they are providing with times, and any hidden fees, gratuities etc. You don’t want any surprises.
Whenever possible, Pay by Credit Card
When you pay by credit card, you have insurance, in the 0unlikely event of a dispute, it will be easier to get a partial or total refund. While most companies are reputable, paying with a credit card will be much easier later if there are any problems.
MAKE SURE YOU ASK PLENTY OF QUESTIONS AS YOU NARROW YOUR LIST:
Here are some great questions to ask, so be sure to take a pad and pen, and ask lots of questions.
How long have you been in business?
This is your wedding reception. You will want someone with plenty of experience. If they just started up, beware. My recommendation is someone with a least 5 years, ask them how much of their business is wedding receptions? How many cars are in your fleet?
How many people can your vehicles accommodate?
This is a crucial question. If you are looking to transport both of you and the bridal party of 26, then you will need a vehicle that can carry at least 28, and that may be difficult. Always ask this question, as you will need to cross them off your least if they can’t transport everyone. Another idea, if this is the case, is to rent two limosines, instead of one.
Is my deposit refundable?
Some couples like companies that refund deposits, but this could come back and bite you. While you can cancel at the last minute and get your money back, they could do the same to you if something better comes along, leaving you with no way to get to and from the event.
How far do you travel?
Most rates for transportation companies are based on mileage, or a flat rate within a certain radius. Make sure the company you hire, understands your plans, and where you intend to go. If your reception or ceremony is a substantial distance away, you will need to find out if the rate is included, you don’t need surprises later.
What is the total cost for the transportation?
Make sure it’s all spelled out. Does the total include tax? What about gratuities? Are there any additional charges for out of town usage, or overtime? Are there any pick up or drop off charges? The contract or agreement should spell out everything for you. Make sure you read everything over before signing and agreeing to the terms.
The best advice I can offer is to use common sense, ask a lot of questions, and get references from other vendors or couples that have used their transportation in the past. Most importantly, HAVE FUN! Planning your event can be just as much fun as the event itself. Enjoy it!
Filed under: Transportation Ideas Tagged: | antique car, buggy, choosing transportation, horse, Hummer, limosine, rolls royce, trolley, wedding, wedding transportation
