Before the invention of the automobile, horse drawn vehicles were the major form of transportation in the United States. After automobiles became available to the average person, the use of horses and carriages greatly diminished. In recent years, carriage driving has become popular both as a sport, show competitions, as well as an elegant way to celebrate special occasions.
Horse drawn carriages today have become a very popular mode of transportation for the bride and groom to go to and from their wedding. What could be more romantic than arriving/departing your wedding in a beautiful Cinderella carriage?
If you do choose to have a horse drawn carriage at your wedding, here are some questions you might want to ask a carriage service before deciding on a particular company.
1. What color is the carriage and horse, and what decorations can be done?
2. Most carriage companies charge by the hour, so does the hourly rate start at the wedding or from the time the service leave their home location?
3. What is their refund policy in case of inclement weather and the carriage is cancelled?
4. Is the service flexible for the wedding photographer to take pictures?
5. Is a “JUST MARRIED” sign available for the carriage?
6. How street/people safe is the horse, is it accustomed to performing at weddings? Loud music, applause, children coming up to pet the horse, can be unnerving for some horses if they’re not experienced street carriage horses.
7. Ask to see pictures of previous weddings the service has performed. Is the carriage well maintained, does the horse look well groomed and in good condition?
8. What permits are needed for the location of your wedding and does the carriage company handle the paper work for the permit?
9. Ask that a route and time of arrival for the carriage be established in the contract.
10.Ask the carriage company if the driver can dress to fit the attire of your wedding, i.e., western, formal, victorian.
Having a horse drawn carriage at your wedding can help you have the wedding of your dreams and a day you’ll remember forever! Return to Colorado Springs Weddings and Receptions