| Limousines
If
you want to get really confused, just look up "Limousines"
in the yellow pages of any city. There are scads of people
who buy a limo and set themselves up in business. Some of
the smaller companies are fine and are willing to provide
good service. Others are not in business for very long because
they’re not able to compete with the larger services. And
some larger services don’t take into account what you actually
order.
Your
best bet, for starters, is referrals from friends or relatives.
If you don’t know anyone who’s used a limo service recently,
you’ll have to pick a few at random and then try to narrow
it down to the one of your choice.
You
should carefully look over the limos the company has and
choose the one you specifically want. Be particularly aware
of any wear in carpets, rust starting to show up (such as
under the door when the door is open), ripped or stained
upholstery or odors. Ask if this car is used strictly for
weddings or for stag parties, football games, etc. A good
company will save the newest ones for weddings and use the
older ones for events that may cause more wear. They usually
don’t allow smoking in any but the older models but you
should ask to make certain that this is the case.
Are
drivers checked for their past driving records? How are
they dressed? Are they discreet or do they act like "one
of the gang"? Do they stay at each site or leave and
come back? You don’t want someone leaving the church to
grab a sandwich and not getting back to pick you up.
You
should make sure that, if the wrong limo is sent or there
is a problem with the driver, you have some recourse.
Make
sure that the limo company has specific directions to each
place you wish them to go.
Be
very specific about the times they are needed. Find out
the minimum number of hours they can be used and also if
there is any surcharge for extra hours.
Don’t
hesitate to ask for references and to follow up with them.
A reputable company will have good references that they
are glad to have you check.
Don’t
forget that the gratuity for the driver is not included
in the base cost. A good driver should be tipped $50-$75
or more depending on the services they provide. Please,
if a driver helps make your day special, don’t fail to reward
him accordingly. Conversely, if a driver does not do a good
job, do not be intimidated into giving him a good tip. But
don’t neglect to give them anything. That way, they can
assume you forgot. Your tip should say, "You did a
good job", "You did a great job" or "You
did a lousy job."
|
