How to Hire a Wedding Limo

Finding the Yellow Page listings, or getting referrals from wedding planners and friends, is the easy part of hiring a wedding limousine for that most special of days. If you want to know how to hire a wedding limo for the best possible price, and have every "i" dotted and every "t" crossed, it takes a little more work. Read on and you will be able to hire a wedding limo with confidence.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. List all the firms that you learned about from the Yellow Pages, friends, the Internet and any other sources. Narrow the list by removing the smallest companies, or ones whose advertising suggest they offer only limited services (for example, a specialty airport service).
2. Choose several local companies with experience, and don't forget to ask for references from all that you contact. You will want to confirm that the firm has been in business for a number of years, reliably and successfully, and has a good reputation for service and safety.
3. Ask about insurance coverage. Companies should be willing to show proof of appropriate insurance, meaning a business policy that covers the owner, his property and driver and the client. Some limousine companies insure their autos under personal auto policies, but these do not always cover clients who hire the vehicles. If you plan to cross state lines, ask whether the limo legally can operate in any destination states.
4. Insist on a high-quality, long-time professional chauffeur. An experienced driver will be able to handle any contingency.
5. Know your rights as a consumer in your state and locality. Read and understand all sections of the contract you are signing. Review the portion concerning cancellation, and know all of your rights and responsibilities under the contract. You should know the owner's and driver's rights and responsibilities, as well.
6. Get everything in writing. After you understand your rights, responsibilities and the costs, then make your best deal. For special events like a wedding, you should have the contract include performance and schedule requirements so there is no misunderstanding.

Tips & Warnings

• Have a back-up plan. Whether it's a relative's station wagon or a rented car, be prepared with a second vehicle just in case something delays or incapacitates the limousine.