Think strategically about a getaway car. If you have a limited budget, this may be something you can cut so you don’t have to sacrifice another aspect of your wedding. Really, getaway cars serve limited purposes— nice background for a few photos, some place to duck into after the bride and groom run through bubbles, rice, etc. (this usually consists of a 90 second drive around the block back to the ceremony location to get pictures) and transportation to the reception site, and, in some cases, from the bride’s home to the ceremony site. So maybe you can stick with your car and skip that picture. Still, we totally get it if that antique truck is central to your entire 1940s vintage feel, so here are some tips to get the getaway car for less…

1.     First- Do you really need a limo?  Sure, it’s fun to have a glass of champagne in the limo with your bridal party on the way to the ceremony, but is it worth several hundred dollars to you? Limos are certainly pricey—one may cut you a deal if your wedding is at a non-busy time, but you will most likely have to spend a few hundred dollars.

2.     Set on a Limo? Do some research to see if any limo companies in your area do not have an hourly minimum. If you can find one, rent for the hour that is most important to you. Don’t want to miss out on riding up to the church in a limo? Rent for the hour before you have to arrive at your ceremony site. Can’t wait for the bridal party toast after the ceremony? Rent for the hour following the ceremony, for just enough time to get to the reception.

3.     If a limo isn’t a must-have, consider these cheaper alternatives, where you can still have some stylish wheels without that big price tag.

• Use your own car for the getaway car…You can either drive around the block in your own car, or walk around to the back door of the church/building after bubbles, and then just take your car to the reception. The plus side? Your car can be decorated during the reception, and somehow, there is nothing like driving to the airport or your honeymoon destination with JUST MARRIED splayed across your back window.

• Ask to borrow a family member’s nice car for the day of the wedding. Does Uncle Dan or Aunt Joan have a black Mercedes, red convertible, or generally cool looking car? Ask them if you could borrow it for the day, or even that they play chauffeur if they would rather drive your car

• Check out local antique car rental possibilities. See if there is a local antique car club that could hook you up with the owners of some antique cars. Some are willing to rent their cars if they drive them, so you score a fabulous ride and a chauffeur for less than a limo!

• Is there a town trolley, cool-looking bus or other option? Check into these non-traditional transportation options to see about their costs. The price could end up surprising you!

• Use a rental car. If you have relatives that are coming from out of town- are they planning on renting a car? If so, see if there is a good upgrade available for your perfect getaway car, offer to pay the difference, and then see if they can switch cars for you on your big day.