The Bridal Book

Wedding Planner

Celebrations

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UNLESS YOU PLAN TO GET THERE ON FOOT, YOU'RE GOING TO NEED SOME QUALITY TRANSPORTATION. ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL LIMOUSINE ASSOCIATION, THERE ARE SOME KEY THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU BOOK. HERE ARE TIPS FOR A SMOOTH RIDE:

1. Find the right professional: Take a look at the NLA Website (www.limo.org) to find a limousine professional. All member companies are duly licensed in the city they are headquartered in, and the NLA verifies that they are properly insured.

2. Do not book the limo to its maximum capacity: Limousine companies typically quote the number of permitted passengers in their vehicles based on guidelines from the manufacturer. Typically, the manufacturer quotes a gross weight on the vehicle (FMVSS requirements) and a number of passengers based on 150 pounds per passenger. Unless you have extremely thin men in your party, booking the maximum number of people in the limousine will be extremely uncomfortable.

For example, a six-passenger limousine is normally stretched between 65 and 70 inches. The vehicle is cut in half, stretched 65 to 70 inches then finished by the manufacturer. It comfortably fits four adults. If you need to seat more people, rent a larger limousine or rent more than one limousine.

Some limousine companies also have stretched SUV's or 28-passenger mini-coaches. Never underestimate how warm and uncomfortable formal clothing is -- and how much worse the discomfort is exacerbated by close quarters.

3. Who's in Charge: Many limousine operators use their colleagues to handle multi-vehicle charters. Ask your contact if another company will be working with them on your wedding day. Do your same due diligence on the other company. If you are not satisfied, go to an operator who can cover the whole wedding charter.

4. Make Sure the Timing is Right: Weddings do not normally go off with military precision. Rent the limousine for at least an extra hour beyond your schedule. Have the limousine come 15 to 30 minutes early to allow extra time for pictures. Receiving lines take 25 minutes per 100 people, and photographers take much more time than you'd think. It is extremely stressful on everyone if you have left inadequate time for your charter.

5. One a Day: Limousine operators will often do more than one wedding in a day. Do not assume you can add time on your wedding day. Spend a few dollars more so your limousine is guaranteed on time and is not racing away at the conclusion of your trip.

6. Visit the limousine operator you are renting from: Ask for references. Insist on a written contract within one week of leaving your deposit. Consider using a major credit card if you are unfamiliar with the company you have chosen.

7. No alcohol: As much as possible, keep alcohol out of the limousine. Amateur drinkers, plus excitement, and formal clothing is a recipe for disaster.

8. Designated driver: Consider hiring a van or a full-sized sedan to stay at the reception as a "designated driver."

9. Tipping: A chauffeur should be tipped between 15 and 20 percent of the total charge. ALL chauffeurs prefer a cash gratuity. If the chauffeur has treated you well, tip him/her handsomely, and be sure to call the owner. If the chauffeur has not delivered good service, inform the owner.

10. Breakdown: Limousines are machines.

Unfortunately, they get flat tires and hoses and seals rip like any other vehicle.

Unless you rent a "backup vehicle," most companies will have to scramble to transport you should there be a problem.

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