It was predicted that when Civil Ceremonies, with the ceremony and reception held in the same place, became popular, it would herald an end to many wedding car companies.
This has not been the case, and the tradition of a Bride taking that last journey as a single woman in a chauffeur-driven limousine with her father is as strong as ever.
So as not to make the groom feel left out, couples are now opting for a limousine to take them from the reception at the end of the evening, instead of taking them from the church to the reception venue.
In addition to the bridal car you will need a car for bridesmaids, unless the distance is short enough for the bridal car to comfortably do two trips, in which case remember to arrange transport to take the bridesmaids from the church to the reception.
Beyond that, it’s very much a question of personal preference and budget. Ideally, the Groom’s family should also be provided with a car, so they don’t have to worry about parking, or drinking and driving later on.
If your budget will stretch to it, it is a lovely idea to arrange for a chauffeur-driven car, perhaps from a meaningful decade, to pick up elderly relatives to take to the ceremony.
Don’t forget, if your venues are close together, the hired cars should be prepared to do more than one trip backwards and forwards.
It is also well worth considering how you intend to leave the reception. Driving away in your own ‘just married’ car is a no-no after several hours of drinking champagne, and after all the careful planning for a stylish day, do you really want to disappear in a mini-cab? A stretch-limo will keep you on that celebrity high, or you may want to luxuriate in the leather-clad luxury of a Rolls Royce or Bentley.
Most car companies are happy for you to have a test ride in your chosen car, ideally when it has already been tuned up and polished, ready for another wedding.
Apart from setting your mind at rest about the quality of the car itself, it is also a good way to validate the company's credentials; in the past, we have heard tales of bogus car companies taking bookings and deposits for cars that they don’t actually own!
Once you’ve worked out exactly what transport you need, be sure to get a written quote and confirmation of all times and collection points.