Renting a limo can be one of those tasks many brides put off until the last minute, which can end up being a big mistake. If you are planning a spring ceremony, you will be requesting a car during the busiest time of the year for car services. Proms are in full swing and many other brides are reserving cars during this season. Get your reservations in early to have the best selection of vehicles and times. Be aware that prices are at a premium and minimum rental times are at their highest for a spring time rental. Some careful planning will save the day and the same planning advice applies for a ceremony of any season.
First, decide how many cars you will need. Different vehicles have different capacities, but take into account everyone's formal wear. Your entire wedding party will probably not fit into one car, especially if you are wearing a full gown with a cathedral train. Those crinolines don't really fold up. Six people piled into a car, stepping on each other and jabbing everyone in the ribs, is probably not your dream ride. Consider having the bride and groom in a single car, which will give the newlyweds a chance for a private chat before the reception. Other limos can take the wedding party or special family members.
If at all possible, see the car you are reserving. This will give you an idea on the space restrictions and some other important information. Are the cars the same as those that were advertised? Are they clean and well kept? No bride and groom want to see a dented, dusty clunker pull up to carry them away. Check references and call former clients. If there was a problem, you can be sure a bride left standing on the curb will let you know.
If you live in the more rural parts of Missouri, your choices might be more limited. Many companies in smaller towns offer wider ranges of coverage. Still, check those references. A smaller company that offers the only service in an area will usually have a good reputation, but don't cut corners because they are your only option. Making other arrangements, such as using your uncle's Model T, is preferable to being left standing on the street or enduring a rude driver.
Once you have chosen your limo vendor, it is time to sign the contract. Here is where things can get a little tricky. You must be very clear on what you are hiring and what you want from the car service. If you wish to be taken with your attendants to the ceremony site in a white stretch and then whisked to the reception as a couple, tell the company and get those details in writing. You will pay for the time the car is parked at the wedding venue, but you will be certain it is waiting as the rice is thrown. Listen to your limo company and honor their policies. If you requested a car for four people, you can't ask them to change things at the last minute and allow eight people to pile in. All of these details need to be written into the contract.
Before you select a limo company, take a look at websites such as A Perfect Touch in St. Louis. They rent limos as well as luxury coaches that can handle up to 18 people. If your heart is set on having all your family and friends ride with you to the reception or you are having a large wedding and want your attendants by your side as you arrive at the ceremony venue, this is a great option.
Do your homework when renting a limo or using a car service for your wedding. Hiring a limousine and driver can be a luxurious treat for a couple as they start their new life. Take the planning of this part of your ceremony seriously and get your reservations in early. Then sit back and enjoy the ride.
