My Account
If you’re looking to make an entrance on your wedding day then it’s essential you get the right ride to arrive in.
RSVP Special Events owner Anne Holman says it’s all part of the special treatment for the bride on the day and is a must-have on most people’s lists.
“Getting out of the car is the first glimpse the guests get of the bride so it’s a special moment,” Anne says.
“For most couples, the car is a priority like the cake, but like the cake, there are always choices depending on the budget.”
The car isn’t just about the entrance though, but also the exit when the couple depart to a location for photos.
“People will often head off in the vehicle to get the pictures done with a picnic in the boot and often the car will feature in the photos.”
Anne says the likes of Rolls Royce, BMW and Audi are popular choices at the moment, as well as large American vehicles.
“I think large European cars are often favoured by couples, as there is plenty of room for the bride’s dress and her bridesmaids.
“I’ve seen everything from a fleet of vintage Chevrolets to a horse-drawn carriage, a convertible Ford Mustang and a 1956 Armstrong Siddeley.”
Because every occasion is different, Mahurangi Matters spoke to American Classic Car Club Auckland president Rob Milligan about what his pick of vehicle would be for a range of weddings.
Budget
For a wedding on a budget, the obvious way to go is to beg, steal and borrow whatever vehicle you can get from family or friends. Depending on what your relatives have hiding in the garage, you could end up with something that looks flash. If you’re doing it on a budget, though, you probably don’t have too much concern about looking the part, so even taking an Uber is a low-cost option in today’s world.
Expensive
If you’re splashing out the cash on the big day, you can’t go past a modern Rolls-Royce, Bentley or Jaguar. If you want something a bit different, Aston Martin and Porsche both offer four door options with the Rapide and Panamera, and they would really make a statement. Any of these vehicles are worth up to about $400,000 new.
Traditional
To be traditional, you probably want two or three vehicles, all the same model and colour, and preferably white. In New Zealand, a Holden Commodore or Ford Fairlane would be good options. If you would prefer to go down the European path, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have a number of spacious four-door options. None of these vehicles are expensive to hire.
Beach/outdoor
For the beach, any 1950s American woody two-door station-wagon would fit right in. You can always throw a couple of boards on the roof, too. The Volkswagen Beetle and Combi are classic options, and an exciting option would be some beach buggies that would give some great options at the photo shoot.
Classic
Jaguar brings plenty to the table if you want a classic ride with the Mark II, Mark X or early XJ6. Other English options would be early Rolls and Bentley or Bristol and Armstrong Siddeley. For those into American vehicles, you can’t look past a Cadillac de Ville, Eldorado or Chevrolet. These are huge and could just about hold the whole wedding party.
Modern
In keeping with the times, Tesla electric vehicles would be perfect for the modern wedding. If you were looking for a cheaper option, then a Toyota Camry or Prius are solid alternatives from the hybrid department.
Extravagant/unique
Any sort of stretch limo from the likes of Hummer or Lincoln will be guaranteed to turn heads on arrival. If you want unique though, NZ has some award-winning hot rods that look outstanding. The Brass Era cars from pre-1916 also stand out, although their speed will mean you are traditionally late to the wedding.
Long distance
Anything modern and luxurious should get you across the country in one piece if it’s a long drive to the venue. I would advise against anything old, particularly from the British motor industry. The last thing you want on the big day is to break down half way there.
