What Should You Budget For Your Wedding Limo?
This depends on the type and number of vehicles and the amount of time you are planning to rent. Most limousine services have a rental minimum of 3 hours. Some do not offer "pick-up" and "drop-off" service because it requires additional time.
Typical Rental Costs
A typical wedding rental package runs from $200 - $400 for 3 hours of service depending on your vehicle preference. Exotic vehicle choices cost much more. 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 Excursion would rent in the $500-$1,000 range.
The Risks of Low Limo Prices
Sometimes people choose based on price alone. Here's what can happen with some of the so-called budget limousines companies:
- Your limousine does not show up. Your parents drive you instead.
- Your limousine is late. You're 45 minutes late to your ceremony.
- A 1989 Lincoln limousine rusting at the seams arrives at your door when you were expecting at a 2006 model. Instead of being lavished in luxury, you are embarrassed amongst family and friends.
- Your limousine chauffeur exercises poor customer service with your future husband and ruins your special day.
- Your limousine breaks down on the freeway during transport to the reception party.. You and 6 of your bridesmaids are 2 hours late to the reception. Yet, you saved $35.00!
- Your limousine service gets into an accident and does not have proper insurance to cover the damages involved in your injuries.
- Your limousine shows up late for your wedding. The groom doesn't get
to the church until 1 hour later amongst bewildered and disgruntled guests.
Yet, you saved $50.
Is it worth it to you to save a few dollars? Most would agree that the wedding day is already stressful enough without adding these worries to the list.
When to Begin Your Limo Search Process
Plan on beginning your search 6 to 9 months before your wedding date. Waiting could result settling for a vehicle that doesn't perfectly suite your needs. For the best choice book your limo 1 year prior to the wedding date.
What to Consider Before Booking Your Limo
Limos to Fit The Wedding Party
Most 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 specify the number of passengers
you want traveling. 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.
Limo Contracts
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.
The Best Wedding Time
If you haven't yet planned a wedding date, avoid planning a springtime
wedding. From prom season (March - June) through wedding season prices
are higher because the demand for limo service skyrockets.
Prom attendees often book all available services and many bridal
parties are left without limo service options or minimum rental time
of 8 hours as well as higher rates.
If your wedding date is in the spring, start your limo search and make
reservations 1 year before your wedding date. For wedding dates during
other times of the year, 6 months is adequate.
Limo Industry Associations
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) and the local livery association
are good indications that your service provider does their due diligence.
The Better Business Bureau also is a good research source- complaints about limousine services are not far behind auto mechanics complaints.
Accidents, Lost Reservations and Other Nightmares
Do your research and cover yourself by getting a signed
contract. Price alone is risky.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do We Pay For The Limo While We Attend Our
Wedding?
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 1 Hour For My Wedding?
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.
Are There Any Discounts for my Wedding?
Discounts depend on the day and length of time rented. However, limousine
services do not offer discounts during the busiest times of the year
due to excessive demand. Some companies may offer
a discount for a rental which exceeds 8 hours however. Remember to
ask this question when you call companies for pricing.