Your wedding transportation is one of the areas you want to deal with early on, six months to a year in fact, prior to your wedding day. On your checklist, it would happen after you've selected the venues for the service and the reception, and after you've confirmed the number of wedding attendants you will have. Why is planning the transportation so important? Well, the arrangement for the transportation has to do with the time it takes to move your wedding party from point A to point B and then to point C without leaving anyone behind as well as meeting the time schedule you have set.

First plan how the bridal party will be transported from where they will dress to the location for the wedding ceremony. Traditionally transportation is planned for all the women and girls in the wedding party as well as the parents of the bride. Arrangements must be made in advance with the service provider if multiple trips are necessary to transport a large bridal party. Usually the groom-to-be and his party arrange their own transportation to the ceremony and this is not something that typically is contracted out.

Arranging transportation for after the ceremony is much more flexible. Some couples choose to transport the entire wedding party to the reception, but it is quite all right to provide transportation for the bride and groom only or to include the best man and maid of honor with the bride and groom. If you'll be transporting the whole gang, again, several trips or multiple vehicles may be needed. Concerns about transportation end once the wedding party arrives at the reception.

Once the logistical information is worked out, it is time to start your transportation search. First, double-check the wedding budget worksheet to see how much money has been allocated for transportation. Your options can get pricey. There are several alternatives to look at besides choosing a limousine. The use of a stretch Hummer or SUV can provide a great entrance and can also transport a large wedding party. For a trendy option, consider being transported in classic or vintage cars. Other ideas include a party bus, a horse-drawn carriage, a boat, a snowmobile, motorcycle and side car, hot air balloon, or anything really that fits in well with the overall theme of the wedding. Of course a personal vehicle is always a fine option and is the least expensive.

While shopping around for the right transportation company, ask about any wedding package deals they may be offering such as free champagne or transportation at the end of the evening. And always carefully review the contract before you sign. The contract should document all agreements such as dates, times, cost, payments if applicable, details about the driver such as their name and expected attire. The contract should also specify the cancellation and refund policy.