But not all transportation companies are created equally. In fact, sometimes,
chartering a limo from a poor quality company can ruin the entire night, which
is why the experts at the National Limousine Association have a few tips on
chartering professional and reliable chauffeured transportation:
1.
Talk to your friends early. The demand for transportation during the
spring season can be overwhelming when so many others are chartering
transportation for Prom, graduation, and even weddings! Talk to your friends
early and decide who will be in your limo group, so that you can book your
reservations and get the vehicle you want.
2. Show up in style. A
unique chauffeured car will definitely set you apart from the rest. There are
many styles available such as stretch limos with special interiors, sedans and
party buses. Depending on the number of people you will have in the car with
you, you may want a certain make or model. Choose something that suits your mood
and shows you off.
3.
Allow time to take lots of pictures. You’re definitely going want some
memories, so plan for everyone to meet up for pre-Prom at one location (make
sure the limo company and the chauffeur have address and directions). This will
eliminate wasting time that can be used for taking pictures and hanging with
friends. You can even ask the driver to position the chauffeured vehicle to be a
part of the shot.
4. Ask about the perks. Some companies provide
food, beverages, and tunes for the ride over to the party. Ask in advance about
the amenities that are available, such as sparkling cider to toast the night
away. Also ask about the type of music available – be prepared to take some mix
CD’s that will have enough music for the whole ride so that you have the coolest
music for the special night!
5. Extend the night. Don’t forget
that there is always a post-prom party. Remember to book your ride for a few
extra hours to ensure you have time to have a great time! Most importantly, sit
back, relax and enjoy the ride.
Prom Tips for Parents
Prom night is one of
the most anticipated nights on the teen calendar. From the moment your son or
daughter find their date, to the moment he or she shows up at the door, every
moment needs to count towards making the night both safe and special. Though you
may worry about your child staying out late on Prom night, hiring a chauffeured
car for the most important social event of the year can transform Prom night
into an extraordinarily memorable, safe and enchanting evening for your teenager
and offer the parent the peace of mind to make it through!
The National
Limousine Association provides these five tips when you hire a transportation
service for your teenager’s big night:
1. Ask the transportation
company for the Prom Promise. This is a document that teens sign in
agreement of not drinking or taking drugs on Prom night. Many limousine and
chauffeured transportation companies offer this contract as a way to give
parents an outlet to discuss the importance of safety on Prom with their
teens.
2. Give the transportation company a curfew. That’s right;
the chauffeur will abide by any rules you set forth, and will make sure to pick
up and drop off your kids at a designated hour. This is a great way ensure your
kids make it home on time, no excuses.
3. Check with industry
associations to make sure the company you choose is reputable. Companies who
belong to industry associations usually must abide by special insurance
regulations and service rules. Reputable associations such as the Florida
Limousine Association (FLA) are good
indications that your service provider does their due diligence. If you are
still stuck, consult http://www.floridalimousine.com/index.html. The Florida Limousine Association’s website lists licensed, properly insured
limousine professionals by community. Consumers can compare services, pricing,
vehicle availability and receive non-binding online price quotes.
4.
Set some ground rules. As the parent, you have the right to tell the
transportation company what will and will not be tolerated in the vehicle. For
example, you can ask that the chauffeur keep the privacy screen down for the
entire ride, so that he/she has a full grasp of what your kids are up to. If any
of your rules are broken, the chauffeur can turn the car around and bring your
kids home.
5. Remember to sit back and relax. A reputable company
hires drivers with proper training and licensing. Theses chauffeurs are used to
carting around excited passengers all day long, so they know how to keep things
under control.