Get ready to roll
Nancy M. Schuessler
Getting hitched is the road trip of a lifetime. So why not hit the road in one of these babies: Elegant and Traditional Getting to the church on time isn’t always a smooth ride. So why not hire a chauffeured limousine to provide a worry-free trip? Limos are available in a variety of sizes, makes, and colors to suit any personality — Lincolns, Mercedes, Jaguars, Cadillacs. An average limousine holds six to ten people comfortably. Amenities can vary, but most have plush seating, mirrors, wood or plexi-glass bars, sunroofs, fiber-optic mood lighting, sound systems, TV, VCR, DVD, and CD players. Most companies will provide soda, water, and juice. Some even offer complimentary champagne. According to Tom Mazza, executive director of National Limousine Association and author of Stretching It: The Story of the Limousine, (published by the Society of Automotive Engineers Press). “Bring along your own favorite bottle of champagne, and any reputable chauffeur will put it on ice and open it for you.” The Big Boys When is a traditional chauffeured limousine not quite the right way to go? When your wedding party is super-large — as in 20 people — or when economy and convenience is paramount. Then a super-stretch limo or stretch S.U.V. is the baby for you. These big boys can hold up to 20 people or more comfortably. It makes an ideal choice for getting the entire wedding party to the church together and on time. Another advantage? Experts say you might save anywhere from $100 to $200 by having the bridesmaids and groomsmen all travel together in one car. Ask the photographer to join the ride and imagine the great paparazzi shots you’ll get to and from the ceremony! Antique and Classic An antique or classic car can add a touch of nostalgia to your day. Imagine being chauffeured to the church in a flapper-era 1929 Rolls Royce, or a classic 1940’s Packard limousine (a.k.a. The Godfather). For the retro-bride, what could be more fun than an Elvis-style 1955 Cadillac convertible with red velour interior? Whether you’re matching your car to a special wedding day theme, or using it simply to create a little Hollywood glamour, you’ll want the car you select to be dependable, well-maintained, and in show-car condition. How do you go about selecting a reliable antique? “Rather than simply seeing a photograph, a bride should physically check out the car and sit inside it,” says Mr. Mazza. “Ask yourself if it’s truly practical, given the physical size of each individual in your party as well as weather conditions,” he adds. When it comes to antique cars, rent from someone who truly enjoys the cars, someone for whom his business is more than just a business. For a fun extra, ask if a driver can wear a chauffeur’s hat or pinstriped suit to fit the theme or part. Don’t forget to ask whether the car has air conditioning or heat. Fantasy Add charm to your wedding with a horse-drawn carriage or sleigh. No doubt either one of these can fulfill a childhood fantasy. In addition there’s noting as romantic as the way any one of these makes a stunning entrance. Choose one of two basic types of carriages: (1) A Victorian-style called a vis-à-vis which seats four people in two seats facing each other, or (2) a Cinderella-style which is white and pumpkin-shaped, typically drawn by two white horses. For added effect, carriages can be decorated with flowers and bows, and most companies will provide drivers that are appropriately dressed - in top hat and tails for the Victorian-style carriage, or renaissance clothing for the Cinderella-style. Before you reserve your mode of transportation, choose the color of the carriage and horses (white, black, or brown) and decide whether you want one horse or two. You may also want to consider having a footman as well as a driver. Ask if the company has a limousine in reserve in case of a nightmare rainstorm or blizzard on your wedding day. Here’s another consideration: Since a five-mile carriage ride can take up to one hour, consider arranging an arbitrary spot closer to the ceremony where you’ll be picked up and taken to the church. This way you can avoid a long carriage ride on your wedding day but still make a grand entrance. Wild and Eye-Appealing Want outright thrills on your wedding day? Opt for a trolley, minibus, van, or luxury motorcoach. Each can provide a sleek, stylish alternative to the traditional limo. Amenities can vary but a limousine-class motorcoach or bus might include plush leather seating, a fully-stocked bar, mood lighting, DVD player, TV, VCR, bathroom, professional make-up station, kitchen — and a hostess or bartender to serve drinks and food. You and your bridesmaids may even have makeup and hair done on board. Another reason to book a bus? You can shuttle guests from the hotel to the reception and back without worrying about people drinking and driving. WAY TO GO Book your transportation eight to twelve months in advance, then be ready to be spoiled, pampered, and charmed. According to Mazza, “A chauffeur is more than a mere driver. He typically receives professional training and delivers a unique, attentive, personalized service tailored specifically for brides.”