Hints on choosing your Wedding Cars

Whether you want a stretch limousine or a vintage open tourer choosing the right car is most important and needs the same care and attention that you will put into selecting the ceremony and reception venues as well as your choice of dresses, suits, flowers and all the other wedding accessories and services.

You are going to make every effort to look your best; make sure the cars are up to the same high standard!

A Recommendation from a friend or a professional, such as a photographer, is a great start to your search for a good car company. Newly-weds often write to those who have given an extra special service at their wedding so another tip is to ask to see any 'Thank You' letters from especially satisfied customers.

Modern or vintage, open tourer or saloon?
Everyone hopes for a warm, dry day but a roof and heater are very welcome on those cold, wet days we often experience, even in mid-summer. You must sit in every open tourer with the roof up and windows fitted to check seating, headroom and visibility!

Think very carefully about the colour of your cars. When photographed, a Bride's traditional white or ivory gown may blend into a white car or the different shades may clash. Photographs of the Bride are likely to be so much crisper and clearer with the car in a contrasting colour.

Inspect each car carefully. Is it elegant, clean, highly polished and looking well cared for? Sit in and try the seats. Does it smell nice and fresh inside? Will you feel pleased to be seen in it?

Insist on a test drive. The car should sound good, ride well and be driven smoothly. Do you feel relaxed and comfortable?

Ask about the chauffeurs. Will they be driving you in smart, professional-looking uniforms, with matching caps and gloves, or will they just turn out in assorted blazers and slacks?

How long will your cars be available for your wedding? You may be surprised how long you need to take photographs, drive to the ceremony, take photographs, drive to a local park, take photographs, drive to the reception and take even more photographs before the cars can leave. 3 to 4 hours is normal!

Ask about multiple bookings. Will your car be freshly valeted or arrive grubby, at the last minute, from an earlier wedding? Will it wait until your photographer has finished? Exclusive use of a car is preferable but may influence the price you pay.

Get a firm quotation! Make sure that it includes all possible surcharges such as extra mileage, photography time and VAT.

Bookings & Reservations are usually confirmed by payment of a deposit.Get a receipt with clear confirmation of your wedding date, ceremony time, all journey details, photography time, total cost including VAT and the date you must pay the balance.

Remember this is your day, you are paying and should expect, within reason, to get the arrangements you want. Try asking if you need something a little different!

Reproduced by kind permission of Wedinfoserve (Car 6/02)