Your East Midlands Wedding - Feb/Mar 2019 (Issue 30)

64 “Your loved ones want to enjoy seeing you get married so let them! That bit of time with your nearest and dearest before and after you tie the knot is private time that the pros will take to the grave,” adds Anna. Do your research. Read supplier reviews, check out their websites and images. This should all tell you whether they’re experienced or novices. – Mike DÉCOR DO’S AND DON’TS Check what décor is already provided with your supplier. “We decorate each vehicle with bows and a V-shaped ribbon at the front in a hue to match your colour scheme. Some might only provide white or cream bows so it’s worth checking as it can make a big difference to your photos,” says Mike. “If you want decorations that can’t be re-used such as real flowers on a luggage shelf expect to pay extra,” Tom adds. “Don’t hesitate to ask for what you want. It’s your day and a good pro will work with you to make it special.” Less is often more, but not always, as Anna explains, “Betsy had a clear, white dash for ages. Then, I dressed her with pink gerberas and white gypsophila and she gets a lot more smiles. It suits her and brings out her personality.” Check that your décor matches the paint scheme of your transport. The last thing you want is a colour clash. – Ben Vallance of Vallance Coaches THINK OF YOUR GUESTS “If your reception is in the middle of the countryside and unable to offer overnight accommodation guest transport may be needed. However, most don’t expect it so if your budget’s stretched don’t worry about it,” says Tom. If you do choose to provide something, coaches are the perfect way to take your guests from A to B. “It saves them having to plan where to park, how to find the venue and helps keep to time too. Some of our vehicles have speakers and CD players for entertainment along the way so they can get into the party mood on the journey,” says Ben. “Having two vehicles can also help to transport the groom and bridal party and when positioned well they also look amazing on your pics,” says Mike. As long as people have clear directions and timings they’re happy. If you do throw on guest transport it’s a bonus. I wouldn’t ask guests for money towards it. If you want them there, you get them there. – Anna THE WEATHER An open-top vintage car can be very special – if the weathers on your side! “It’s worth remembering that when the soft top is on it reduces space so it can be difficult to get in and out of. Also, these vehicles don’t always look as attractive with the roof in place and can be quite draughty too in cooler months,” advises Mike. “Many also require two people to put the roof up and some don’t have one at all,” adds Tom. “Good hire companies will carry umbrellas on board but make sure your bridesmaids are on standby for a two-minute tidy up of your beehive when you arrive. If it chucks it down, you may look like a drowned rat but it’ll be good fun!” says Anna. Opt for a car with a large sunroof known as a sliding head. One person can quickly open them, they protect you from the wind and rain when closed but still let plenty of light in for photos. – Tom RIGHT TYPE OF TRANSPORT When booking be sure to check the access route with your venue – especially when considering larger vehicles such as a coach, as Ben explains, “You want to be confident that it’ll be able to drop your guests off at the entrance rather than at the end of a long driveway!” Classic cars are very popular but there are things to consider. “They’ll cope with the journey if it’s not too long but they’ll be slower and they’ll lack air conditioning,” says Mike. Don’t assume vintagecamperhire.co.uk vallancescoachesltd.com