TRANSPORTATION
Limo services. They can make a special event extraordinary, but not all limousine services are created equal. If you want to make sure that your next special event goes off smoothly, be sure to get all of the details in advance. When you are ready to make the final decision on which company you are going to hire for your special occassion, the biggest mistake people make is hiring the company that offers the best bargain. The best bargain could be the worst nightmare.
• Most experts will tell you to begin thinking about your transporation options six to nine months before your wedding date. Cutting it any closer could severely limit your selection of vehicles and rental companies.
• Ask about the types of cars or Limousines that the company offers. There are six, eight and ten+ passenger Limos. Ask how many passengers will the car hold comfortably? SUV Limos can handle 12-14 people. If you have over 15 people in your wedding party, you should be ordering a Limo Bus.
• Companies who belong to industry associations usually must abide by special insurance regulations and service rules. Reputable associations such as the National Limousine Association (NLA) are good indications that your service provider does their due diligence. The Better Business Bureau also is a good research source.
• Ask specifically which car you will have on your wedding day. You may think you're getting a great price - until a 6 passenger Limo shows up to take you and your 8 bridesmaids to the church.
• Going for the cheapest rate may leave you with: • The limousine not arriving on time. • An old beat up vehicle arriving at your door. • Missing hub-caps on the wheels and a discolored carpet. • Poor customer service and bad language. • A chance of the vehicle breaking down. • Lousy driving by the chauffeur.
• Ask about the color and all colors - don't just assume that your Limousine will be white! Limousines come in white, gray, navy, black and more.
• Questions to ask the limosine service.
How long have you been in business?
How many vehicles do you have?
Where are you based?
How old are you vehicles?
Is your limousine going to smell like smoke?
Where can I view your limousines?
Are there any minimum charges or hire durations?
Are you a full-time limousine operator?
What does the price include (VAT, Drinks, Gratuities etc)?
What contingencies do you have if the limousine breaks down?
What guarantee do I have that I will receive the limousine I have chosen?
Do you have the appropriate private hire insurance, can I view it?
Will I receive a written confirmation of the price?
Do you provide a booking confirmation with the itinerary and price included?
What payment methods do you accept?
What is the deposit and when is the balance due?
• Chauffeurs - Ask the company about its chauffeurs. Choose a company that places a high value and emphasis on the quality and professionalism of their chauffeurs. How will the chauffeur will be dressed? Will he/she be in business attire?
• Ask how they base their charges. Is it based on a time limit (2-3 hours)? Is it based on distance? If it is based on time… what happens if the allotted time goes over - is there an extra charge? What is the charge?
• Tipping - Ask about tipping. Is it already included in the price? If not, what is an acceptable tip. Usually 15% is customary and 20% is given for great service.
• Helpful limousine tips to know befor renting a limousine. • Look for references and/or contacts of the company you are dealing with. • Do yourself a favor and ask for a signed contract. • Ask about the history of the chauffeurs. • Ask for insurance. • Inquire about permits. • Ask about deposits and hidden fees.
• Confirm your reservation the week before the wedding and make sure they have all of the directions.
• Check out the vehicle you plan on renting. Some companies utilize older limo fleets. You don't want to be surprised on your wedding day when a 1988 limousine shows up at the church when you were expecting a 2007 model!
• Get everything in writing, the quotation and the itinerary.
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