YOUR PROM night is one of the most special occasions you are likely to organise in the coming years – so it is important
you choose the right limousine to get you there.
There is a range of exciting and dramatic vehicles on offer these days all geared-up to make you look like the dogs-danglies when you turn-up at on your prom night.
The most popular limousine is the Hummer. The masculine looks of the Hummer H2 and H3 have both been winners since it was first stretched in 2003 and since then a range of different lengths and colours have been introduced. The Chrysler 300C limo is another favourite with its pimp type grille and slim window line making it the perfect vehicle to impress your friends.
Other stretched limousines on the market now include Lincoln Towncars, Cadillac's, Ford GMC, Ford Excursions, limo busses and even a Ferrari Limousine (see below). All the advertisers on this page will be happy to provide these vehicles. Pink limousines and fire engine limos have also proved to be an overwelming success for proms.
Here are some important tips when choosing a limousine.The fine detailsThe company you phone will want to know fine details about your journey – so it is important to talk to all your friends who will be in the limo to find out where they live and if they want to be picked-up and dropped-off back home. This is normally an additional cost so try and all meet in one place if possible.
Book early – as much as six months in advance!
The school prom season is the busiest in limousine business calendar so it is vital you phone the local companies as soon as you are given your prom dates.
How many people?Tell the operator how many people will be travelling in the limousine and ask them to give you a per-head cost. It will then be easy to talk to your friends and let them know the precise cost – it normally sounds cheaper this way as well.
Nominate a friend
It is important that only one or two people look after the limousine booking. Otherwise when it gets to the stages of payment and finalising the details it can become very a messy process. But make sure a second person knows all the details in case you cannot make the prom for any reason.
A legal limousineUnfortunately there are some illegal limousine operators out there. Their prices maybe cheap, but this is because they probably do not have insurance or the appropriate licenses.
This may not bother you when you hear the price, but be warned – if the limousine is involved in an accident you will not be insured!
Also, if there are not legal, then the chances that they will NOT turn-up on your prom night is slim. Imagine the heartache when you are your friends are left at the side of the road?
If you want to book with a company, contact the National Limousine and Chauffeur Association who will let you know what to look for in a legal limousine company. Or contact your local councils licensing department who will also advise you. These simple phone calls will ensure your plans are secure.
Choosing the carWhen you are sure what limousine you and your friends want for your prom, ask the limousine company if you can go and see the car. All genuine and legal operators will be happy to do this – if they don’t let you see the limousine, then there is something seriously wrong – cancel your booking if you have one!
When you go, ask to see a copy of their insurance, public liability and MoT certificate for the vehicle – this will also make sure the vehicle is legal. Again, any excuses – walk away!
Before the day
So, you’ve booked your car – and the limousine company has taken a deposit and you are just a few days away from your big prom.
About seven days before, give the company a call and confirm the booking. Make sure they have the correct date and time and they plan to send the same vehicle you have booked.
Finally, the day before, make another call – Do not feel you are being a pain – you are the customer. Check all the details with the company again and confirm the venue and payment details.
Contacting the driver
If all has gone well, you’ve just been picked-up by a stunning limousine and taken to you prom. Emotions will be flowing and you’ll be excited – but it is very important you take the drivers mobile number so you can find him when you need him if you have a returned journey booked. Try and do this before you arrive at the venue.
Playing safeRemember, these limousines are very expensive and are difficult to fix if they are damaged.
If you do not respect the vehicle or follow the driver’s rules – he is likely to stop the car and make you walk. So please respect the limousine and make sure you do not spoil your event.
BBC Top Gear also proved how popular stretched limousines are becoming on a recent episode. Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond all set upon making their own limousines out of ordinary cars - with disasterous results.
Sure - a stretched limousine is an amazing way to arrive at your school prom and you will be noticed when it pulls-up in front of your stunned friends.
Firstly, if you are working to a tight budget, try and think of someone you know, a friend or a member of the family with a car which stands-out from the crowd. If they own a flashy sports car or a luxury saloon then ask them if they will take you and maybe a couple of friends to your prom - offering them a small reward and fuel money may make it tempting offer.
