Wedding Transportation Etiquette
A modern wedding will require a variety of transportation arrangements for the bride and groom, their families, the bridal party and sometimes even the guests. As with all aspects of a wedding, there are etiquette rules to observe when planning and organizing the transportation for your big day.
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Bridal Party
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Technically, the bride and groom are not obligated to provide limousines or any other specific type of transportation for themselves or the members of their bridal party. However, it is a nice touch to select transportation for the bridal party to accompany the bride and groom. Choose something within your budget. If chauffer-driven limos are too expensive, consider classic cars or a bus. Remember that your arrival to your wedding should be in keeping with the theme and tone of the day. You may also wish to include transportation for parents of the bride and groom in your booking.
From Ceremony to Reception Location
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According to Connie Werner Reichert, if your wedding ceremony is in a different location from the reception venue, you should provide vehicles to transport guests who do not have access to their own transportation. It is appropriate to ask your guests ahead of time whether they will require this transport and to arrange services for the group that needs them.
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Cost of Transportation
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Traditionally, the bride's family pays for all transportation costs, with the exception of transportation for the groom and his best man to the ceremony. The bridal party and any ushers are responsible for their own transportation costs; however, in many instances, the bridesmaids will ride with the bride to the ceremony. For those not tied to tradition, anyone can pay for wedding transportation.
Tipping
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If you do use the services of a chauffeur, the standard tip is 15 to 20 percent. Examine the agreement you have with the limousine company because tips are generally included in your bill. If it is not included, be sure to tip your driver.
Destination Weddings and Out-of-Town Guests
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If you are having a destination wedding, in which you get married in a location such as a resort or other place where you and your guests don't live, you are not expected to pay for your guests' flights. However, it is appropriate to negotiate group discounts with an airline or other transportation provider to reduce costs for your guests. If your guests are traveling from another city to attend your wedding, you should organize a bus or shuttle from their hotel to the ceremony and reception.
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References
- Photo Credit horse and carriage image by Stephen VanHorn from Fotolia.com
