TIPS FOR RENTING WEDDING LIMOUSINES

What should I budget for my wedding transportation?This depends on the type and number of vehicles you are planning to rent. Please understand that most limousine services have a rental minimum of 3 hours. Most services do not offer "pick-up" and "drop-off" service as this only consumes 1 hour of time.

A typical wedding rental package runs from $300 - $500 for 3 hours of service depending on your vehicle preference. Exotic vehicle choices cost much higher. For example, a standard white 8-passenger stretch limousine would rent in the $250-$350 range while an exotic vehicle, such as a Stretch SUV Hummers and Excursions would rent in the $600 - $900 range - a big price difference!

When should I start shopping?A good time to begin your wedding limo shopping is 6 to 9 months before your wedding date. Delays in your shopping could result in not finding your vehicle of choice. Conversely, most companies do not handle inquiries for service which extend beyond 1 year. To be taken seriously by a limousine service, it is best to begin your shopping duties within a year of your wedding date.

Can my bridal party fit in the limo?Most stretch limousines simply are not big enough to accommodate 12-14 people. Exotic vehicles can accommodate larger parties but are more expensive and limited. When shopping, make sure you consider the number of passengers and their size. Although a limo might be designated as a "10 - passenger" limousine, it may be difficult to squeeze 10 adults dressed in formal attire in such limos. If you have several large members in a 8 to 10 person bridal party, you may want to go with a "14 – passenger" SUV for comfort.

Should I get a contract?Having a contract with your chosen limo company is a wise decision which will help avert any problems in the future should your hired service not perform to your expectations. Sadly, many firms do not put their services in writing - you should require it! Some companies use online contracts that specify their Terms & Conditions.

When is a good time to host my wedding?If you haven't yet planned a wedding date, we strongly advise picking a date which DOES NOT occur in the springtime. Why? During prom season (March - June) prices are exorbitantly high because the demand for limo service skyrockets. Prom attendees scoop up all available services and many bridal parties are left without limo service options.
In the spring, bridal parties may find themselves with limo options that require 8 hours minimum and rental rates 30% higher than normal. If your wedding date is in the spring, we suggest starting your limo search 1 year before your wedding date. You should also plan on making reservations 1 year in advance as well. For wedding dates during other seasons, 6 months is adequate.

However, to get around this problem, plan an early afternoon wedding, say 1pm or 2pm. This will give the limo company plenty of time to complete your wedding and prep the limo for a night prom! Then have a vintage wedding car pick you and the groom up after your reception. This is the most cost effective way to host a spring wedding.

Why do I pay while the limo is waiting?You still have to pay for the rental time during your wedding even if you aren't physically using the vehicle. Although the vehicle is not in use, it cannot be used elsewhere; even when there are 2 or 3 hours in between the drop-off and pickup. However, exceptions do exist when there are 6 to 8 hours between a pick-up and drop-off.

Can I rent a limo for one hour?No. Most companies require a minimum 3 hour booking to rent a limousine. During prom season, expect this minimum to increase; as much as 8 hours minimum. High demand vehicles such as Stretch Excursions will often rent at full price with an 8 hour minimum. Unfortunately, you are more likely to get struck by lightning than getting a limousine rental for 1 or 2 hours during prom season. Limo prices explode during prom season, incuding weddings!

Can I get a discount for my wedding?Depends on the day and length of time rented. However, limousine services do not offer discounts during prom time. Why? The demand for limousines during the spring exceeds the supply. This shortage causes an increase in prices and hourly minimums. Some companies may offer a discount for a rental which exceeds 8 hours.