Groom To-Dos: Swank Wedding Transportation

From your house to the ceremony and from the reception to the hotel or airport, wedding day transportation requires style, thoughtful planning, and the desire not to end up stranded on a deserted side street. And guess what, guys? This time it's your turn to take charge of the planning. Read on for a list of options.

Limo

This is by far the safest bet in the nuptial transportation department. A limo is classic, classy, and more comfortable than your uncle's Tersely. You'll probably rent -- rather than buy, borrow, or steal -- so keep these tips in mind:

• Ask newlywed friends for references.
• If all your friends eloped, call the National Limousine Association at (800) 652-7007 for a referral.
• Still no dice? Ask your caterer or reception-hall manager for a list of local limo companies.
• If all else fails, try the yellow pages -- look under "Limousine" -- or call the Better Business Bureau in your area.
• Shop around. Call multiple services and compare prices. The national average is about $50 per hour, plus a mandatory 15% tip.
• Reserve at least six months in advance. A last-minute limo search is more likely to net you something that says, "Take us to the mortuary!" than something long and white.
• Check out the car in person. Remember that one person's "luxury" is another's fuzzy dice and Mr. T-shaped air freshener. While you're there, confirm that the driver will wear an appropriate uniform. (For this event, "appropriate" means black jacket and tie, not "Bon Jovi" T-shirt and jogging shorts.)
• Sign a contract. You'll want the full terms in writing, including the deposit and cancellation policies, price, and confirmation of all dates, times, and locations.
• Haggle for extras. A TV is nice, but champagne is better. Turn on your charm and see what they'll throw in gratis.
• Consider other colors. If you're not a stickler for white, black, or silver, limos can cost 10% less.
• Make sure the driver knows where he's going. Enough said.

Sports Car

Traditionally, it's the best man's duty to drive you two lovebirds to your evening destination (hey, he's cheaper than a chauffeur!). You could settle for his Toyota Camry, but wouldn't a Jag be better? Rental companies across the U.S. and Canada rent exotic cars such as convertible Mercedes, BMWs, Lexus coupes, and Saab convertibles. Just make sure your best man doesn't drink before he slides behind the wheel to take you to paradise.

Carriage

Considering less conventional transportation? Can you say "horse-drawn carriage"? If you're not in the middle of an urban center (with the exception of New York City's Central Park) look into this blast from the past. Check the yellow pages under "Carriages" and "Wedding Services," and make sure the company/owner/driver carries liability insurance.

Adventurous Options

There's nothing like the sight of a fun-loving bride and groom travelling to their nuptials on matching mountain bikes, in-line skates, or horses. Likewise, if you'll wed in an exotic locale such as a desolate beach, a mountaintop, or a Venetian canal, nothing will top off the moment quite like a dramatic arrival via sailboat, snowmobile, or man-powered gondola. Whatever your choice, try to arrive in style -- and in one piece.

-- Robert Mortiz

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