Transportation: Arriving in style
You will put a lot of thought into your wedding.
Your dress will be chosen with the utmost attention to detail, you will pore over endless menu options, flowers every shade of color imaginable, and most importantly, where one of the biggest events of your life will take place.
But once you choose a venue, how will you get there? Will you take the beat-up old sedan you drive every day, or will you arrive in style?
There are so many options now when it comes to hiring a vehicle that you need to take a moment and figure out exactly what you want.
Questions to answer are:
— How many people are going to ride in the vehicle with you? From four to more than 30, there are vehicles that can accommodate even the largest wedding parties.
— Do you want a stretch limo, classic car, party bus or something unique such as a trolley to ferry you around before and after the ceremony?
— How much are you willing to spend on transportation? Some companies require a two-hour minimum, but many don’t. There are options to fit every budget.
Most importantly before you commit to any company, Laurie Knierim from Above the Bay Limousine advises people to take the time to inspect the vehicles for themselves. Knierim said it’s also vital to research the company and make sure they are licensed by the state and properly insured.
“MDOT (Michigan Department of Transportation) has a website with a list of licensed operators and they update it every day,” said Knierim.
It’s also important to consider the type of wedding you’re having. Buses tend to get the party started and are perfect for longer trips or bachelor and bachelorette parties.
Bill Cote runs the Boyne Bus out of Boyne City and said they can fit almost 30 people on the bus. With a bathroom, kitchenette, bar (and bartender) and karaoke machine, there’s a definite party atmosphere onboard.
Renting a trolley to cruise around in is something that is sure to turn heads.
“A trolley adds character to the party and can easily accommodate a lot of people,”said Enzo Lieghio from the Mackinac Old Time Trolley Company in Mackinaw City.
You may also want to consider hiring a bus or vehicle to ferry out-of-town guests from their hotels to the reception site. For example, Cote said there is a two-hour minimum for reserving the Boyne Bus, but those two hours don’t have to be consecutive. Maybe you want guests to be taken from one place to another and then back again with a minimal amount of fuss. It’s another option to consider and ask about when researching companies.
Whether you choose a limousine, bus or trolley to chauffeur you about on your special day is up to you, but no matter what, remember to ask about state certifications, licenses and insurances. Your wedding day is yours to enjoy without any added stress.
Up North Bride Home » Spring 2011 Edition » Transportation: Arriving in style