PHANTOM HIRE'S BLOG

Your choice of wedding car plays an important part in your big day, whether you are dreaming of a vintage classic or something sleeker and more modern. Your wedding car sets the tone for the journey to and from the ceremony’s destination, as well as that all-important grand entrance.

As you step into the car on the way to your ceremony, it’s not just the journey that begins, but a new chapter of your life. The wedding car plays a significant role in making that moment unforgettable — from the first look at your ideal wedding car to the opulence you’ll feel as you journey to your venue in complete elegance and comfort.

This unforgettable moment is not one that comes easily. We know that wedding planning can feel stressful and overwhelming. One decision that may seem small initially, like choosing a wedding car, is just as important as any other. Your wedding car not only provides the perfect ride but will also play a key part in your experience and in the photos that will last forever. Our team of consultants and trained chauffeurs are here to simplify the process, from your first enquiry to being driven home as a newly married couple.

From the elegance of vintage wedding cars to the luxury of modern vehicles, our wedding car hire service offers something to match any theme and tone. With one of the largest fleets of wedding cars in the UK and options to personalise and add a special touch to your big day, our wedding car hire service is truly unique and bespoke. But how do you choose? Is it the timeless beauty of a vintage car or the sleek sophistication of a modern ride? In this guide, we will help you explore the key factors that will hopefully make your decision a little easier.

Why Choosing the Right Wedding Car Matters

More than just transportation, your wedding car is an extension of the theme and tone of your wedding day, an expression of your style. The right choice of car adds to the occasion, elevating the sense of grandeur, and also provides a stunning backdrop for photoshoots. One of the more common questions we are asked is about the opportunity for a photoshoot. Of course, we are completely at your behest, so we can position the wedding car wherever you need. Choosing the best options, as well as the right wedding car decorations, is crucial to creating the perfect addition to your wedding album.

The car symbolises your journey that day, marking the transition into married life. With this in mind, it is incredibly important to choose a wedding car that matches your personality and theme. After all, it is your big day, and you want a wedding car that is an extension of both you and your venue. A modern wedding car like the Rolls-Royce Spectre might look out of place at a historic venue like the Birmingham Town Hall, whereas a car like the Rolls-Royce Phantom 8 is an option that effortlessly blends heritage and modernity.

Choosing a wedding car that matches the theme and vibe of your wedding day is the perfect way to make a lasting impression on your guests, enhancing the overall atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Naturally, all eyes will be on you, but when you turn up in a vintage wedding car or a show-stopping modern wedding car, you’ll be making a head-turning entrance that is sure to be the talk of the event.

A well-chosen wedding car adds that extra layer of luxury, comfort, and convenience. It’s not all about making a lasting impression or ensuring people remember your entrance; you also need to be comfortable and relaxed on your journey. All of our wedding cars, no matter the vintage, are designed with comfort in mind. They all feature knowledgeable chauffeurs who will get you to your destination stress-free and on time, with added touches like refreshments of your choice, a custom playlist, and luxurious seating for a smooth ride.

The Allure of Vintage Wedding Cars

There is something unquestionably charming and impressive about vintage wedding cars. Think of the classic elegance of a Rolls-Royce or the timeless appeal of a Beauford wedding car. Vintage wedding car hire exudes the sophistication and romanticism you want for your wedding day, giving a sense of history and nostalgia for a bygone era. Most people who hire vintage wedding cars do so to embrace the classic style and opulence that are ideal for more traditional wedding venues or vintage-themed events. So, if you’re looking for a wedding from the “golden era,” one of our vintage wedding cars may be the perfect choice for you.

Rolls-Royce Phantom – A timeless classic, there is a reason this British craftsmanship masterpiece has stood the test of time. A true work of art on wheels, it epitomises luxury and refined majesty that will enhance any wedding day, from pick-up to the all-important pictures. With a spacious rear cabin offering exceptional legroom and maximum comfort, as well as rear privacy curtains, you can enjoy the journey with an added layer of exclusivity. The bespoke audio system and massage seats, which can be both heated and cooled, ensure you travel in maximum comfort no matter the time of year.

Beauford – This vintage wedding car combines old-world charm with modern comfort, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking to make a statement entrance on their wedding day. The Beauford’s impressive 1930s design is characterised by graceful, sweeping lines and a glistening outer shell that draws eyes wherever it goes. The open-top configuration offers a wonderfully majestic experience, while the vintage interior ensures a graceful and comfortable ride.

Inside, there is luxurious leather seating, handcrafted wood accents, and detailing that reflect the incredible craftsmanship of the era. The spacious rear cabin offers ample space for the bride and her attendants, ensuring an arrival dripping with style, while also guaranteeing punctuality. It is not just transportation; it is a statement of luxury, romance, and timeless beauty that will enhance any wedding day.

Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit – The epitome of refinement and prestige, renowned for its regal presence and elegant design, with sleek lines and a silhouette that commands attention. Its impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail make it a true symbol of sophistication, ensuring you arrive at your wedding in complete style.

Inside the Silver Spirit, there is exceptional comfort, with leather-bound seats, rich wood veneers, and incredibly soft wool carpeting. The cabin exudes opulence, creating an inviting atmosphere where you can relax in complete serenity. With a large rear cabin spacious enough for the whole party, you can enjoy the day without having to worry about the logistics.

The Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit is the ideal choice for couples who wish to make a grand entrance in timeless elegance, offering a majestic ride that will ensure your wedding day is one to remember.

Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow – The absolute icon of classic style and sophistication, known for its unmatched elegance, this exquisite wedding car offers the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern luxury. It is the perfect choice for couples who desire a memorable experience.

The interior is nothing short of spectacular, featuring plush leather seating, rich wood panelling, and incredible attention to detail that creates an atmosphere of pure luxury. The spacious cabin offers ample room for the bride in her finery and the party in attendance. Every detail is designed to create an unforgettable ride, where comfort and style meet seamlessly.

A truly regal experience that will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. Make your wedding day superb with the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, a vehicle that embodies both grandeur and elegance.

The Appeal of Modern Wedding Cars

In contrast to the vintage cars we offer, our fleet of modern wedding cars provides a completely different vibe: sleek, stylish, and packed with modern amenities that will enhance any wedding day. With options including the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Audi Q7, Baby Bentley, Rolls-Royce Spectre, and a selection of striking sports cars, modern wedding cars are often chosen by those seeking a bolder wedding car for hire. Cutting-edge technology, spacious interiors, and sleek designs make for a comfortable, stylish journey as well as an eye-catching entrance.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Limo – If you’re looking for a spacious six-seater limo with a generous rear cabin and an unparalleled entertainment system, all while maintaining the charm of timeless Rolls-Royce style, this vehicle is perfect. Combining the sleekness of a modern limousine with classic luxury, it is a true, timelessly elegant ride that elevates every journey into an art form.

Ferrari F1 Limo – Modern doesn’t always have to mean subtlety. Experience this adrenaline-fuelled icon, which merges the power of a state-of-the-art sports car with the class of a limousine. With seven spacious seats, each featuring its own 10-inch screen and an incredible surround sound system, this is a true masterpiece for anyone who demands both speed and sophistication.

Range Rover Sport Limo – When you think about iconic British heritage and craftsmanship, few brands come to mind before Range Rover. This modern take on a British classic is the perfect blend of rugged power and refined opulence you expect from luxury wedding car hire. It boasts six LCD screens and a built-in bar, allowing you to travel in style and comfort in an all-terrain vehicle that is ideal for destination weddings.

Audi Q7 Limo – A true modern masterpiece on wheels, for those who want all the mod cons and latest tech without compromising on style, this innovative and luxurious modern wedding car features eight seats, four video screens, and a champagne lounge. Its ultra-modern interior with changing ambient neon lighting is sure to turn a few heads on your big day.

Baby Bentley Limo – Combining Bentley’s spirit of elegance with the opulence of a limousine experience, this show-stopping modern wedding car is perfect for those looking to make a grand entrance. With eight seats, luxuriously spacious rear seating, and ambient floor and ceiling lighting, it offers a wonderful experience, adding a party element to your big day in this glorious statement piece.

Rolls-Royce Phantom 8 – A stately chariot that blends everything you expect from a modern wedding car with the timeless elegance of Rolls-Royce. Effortlessly combining heritage and modernity, this masterpiece on wheels creates a serene ambiance on your big day. The twinkling fibre optic lights in the spacious rear cabin, exceptional legroom, and rear privacy curtains enhance the exclusivity of the experience. Designed for those with the most discerning tastes, it features a bespoke audio system with studio-quality sound and massage seats with both heating and cooling systems, ensuring you arrive in comfort and style.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan – The pinnacle of luxury SUV hire for weddings, commanding attention wherever it goes. With elevated seating offering incredible views for the party in the back, an unparalleled entertainment system, and a panoramic glass roof that fills the cabin with natural light, this vehicle is ideal for those seeking rugged capability without sacrificing Rolls-Royce sophistication. The luxury lounge seats, with heating and cooling options, make it perfect for those travelling to a destination wedding in complete comfort and style.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series 2 – Experience the latest expression of spacious luxury on the road in the Ghost Series 2. Its extended wheelbase enhances rear legroom, offering unparalleled space. Dynamic ambient lighting gives a bespoke feel to any occasion, and ultra-soft lambswool floor mats create a cocoon of serenity. This modern wedding car has been crafted with true attention to detail.

Rolls-Royce Spectre – The ideal choice for environmentally conscious wedding parties who don’t want to sacrifice elegance and sophistication. A true statement of modernity, silent, powerful, and breathtakingly advanced. You’ll enjoy whisper-quiet rides, rear digital displays that give you complete control of the climate and media, and a starlight roof that will make your wedding day unforgettable. Glide over any terrain with exceptional comfort and arrive in style with the illuminated grille, giving a unique glow that will enhance your entrance.

How to Choose Between Vintage and Modern

Choosing between a vintage wedding car and a modern wedding car can be tough, so it’s important to consider several factors. Firstly, think about the style and theme of your wedding. A vintage car like the Beauford would pair perfectly with a rustic or traditional theme, such as the Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel in the West Midlands. On the other hand, more modern cars like the Rolls-Royce Spectre would suit a contemporary venue, like Searcys at The Gherkin in central London. The difference in the vibe between the two sets of cars cannot be understated. Both have their advantages, and neither compromises on comfort. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and how the wedding car hire will impact your day, as well as how it will complement your venue.

Another crucial factor to consider is, of course, the budget. With classic wedding car hire, availability can often be limited, especially during peak wedding season, as there are fewer of these cars available. It’s a bespoke option, so during peak times, the prices can inflate. However, in the off-peak season, the costs can be more affordable and often more budget-friendly than modern wedding cars for hire. Modern wedding cars are the latest in technology, sleek style, and elegance, which are always popular and often quite scarce. This can push their costs up, keeping the price at a premium.

Then, there are the practical considerations that are often overlooked when choosing to hire a wedding car. The number of passengers in your party is vital. Classic wedding cars often have fewer seats available, making them more popular with brides who want to travel with the person giving them away. However, modern wedding cars, and in particular limousines, can hold many more people, making them ideal for larger parties or even the following bridal party.

You may also want to take into consideration the length of your journey. Venues like Hothorpe, which offers a woodland wedding in Leicestershire, can be quite out of the way, so the journey may be lengthy. With this in mind, you might prefer the more modern wedding cars, like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan or the Range Rover limo, which can traverse various landscapes with ease. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a shorter trip that exudes sophistication and classic style, then a Beauford or Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow would be ideal.

Ultimately, one of the biggest considerations when choosing between a vintage or modern wedding car is the photography opportunities. You’ll want to think about how the car will look in your wedding photos. A vintage wedding car evokes nostalgia, charm, and heritage, whereas a modern car may offer a sleeker, minimalist aesthetic. It may not sound like the most important factor, but those pictures will last forever, so picking the right car for your style and the theme of your wedding is imperative.

Wedding Car Ribbons and Decorations

The journey on your wedding day wouldn’t be complete without a little customisation. Wedding car decoration may seem like a fun novelty, but it can make a big difference, creating a festive and romantic ambiance. Whether you’re taking a trip in a sleek modern wedding car or travelling through time in one of our vintage wedding cars, our range of customisation options can make the day your own.

Wedding ribbons for cars are just the start. These come in your choice of colour, so no matter which car you choose, it can match your wedding’s colour scheme. We will attach them to the vehicle in any way you like, ensuring the styling and placement are completely unique to your wedding day. The wedding car ribbon enhances the aesthetic appeal of your big day.

Next, bows on wedding cars are an increasingly popular customisation choice. Whether it’s a simple bow on the car’s grille or a large bow on the hood, you can really make your wedding day glamorous and turn a few heads when making your grand entrance.

We also offer real flowers for your car. We will match them to your wedding day’s theme and colour scheme so that you can feel like a VIP without compromising the aesthetic elegance of your big day. While they may not be as eye-catching as some of the other customisation options, just imagine your Rolls-Royce Phantom 8 arriving at your door adorned with pure white roses. This will make your journey special and add elegance to your day from the moment you enter your wedding car.

The final option included in your wedding car hire is the number plate. We offer a customisable number plate that allows you to add the name or initials of you and your partner. If you have something else in mind, we can cater to any request. Previously, we have had the name of a favourite football team or the date of the wedding. This can be the cherry on top of the cake on your big day, adding another layer to our bespoke service.

Are There Any Vintage Wedding Cars We Wouldn’t Recommend?

We often rave about the appeal of luxury wedding cars and the style that comes with a vintage wedding car. But are there any we wouldn’t recommend? While most are beautiful and would be a fantastic addition to any wedding day, there are some that are less practical. Some are more prone to breakdowns, less comfortable on long journeys, or harder to find.

It can often seem overwhelming when looking at vintage car rental for weddings, and the last thing you need is for something to go wrong. So, considering the length of your journey and the landscape surrounding it is sensible. Cars like the 1920s Model T Ford, while iconic, may not offer the luxury and comfort needed from a vintage wedding car. See some of the other cars we suggest avoiding

That’s not to say vintage cars for weddings aren’t preferable; there are just a few details to consider before choosing the right one. Look at factors like condition, comfort, and availability to ensure your day goes off without a hitch, and your ride is smooth and effortless.

Alternatives to the Beauford Wedding Car

The Beauford wedding car has become synonymous with luxury and vintage wedding car hire, making it an incredibly popular choice for many couples. Its classic design, smooth ride, and old-world charm give it an elegant and timeless look. It’s a great choice for those seeking a retro appeal. Designed to resemble cars from the 1930s, the Beauford has a vintage vibe that offers a stunning backdrop for wedding photography, especially if your wedding destination has a regal or classic aesthetic.

As the Beauford is so popular, we receive a lot of requests for alternative vintage wedding cars that offer a similar vibe and aesthetic. Some couples want more variety, and we understand that. The short answer is yes—people want a different wedding car for hire for a variety of reasons. Some want more room for larger parties, while others are looking for more amenities within the car. We offer vintage wedding cars to cater to every request. If you would like to check out more alternatives, click here.

For those looking for more space, perhaps because you’re traveling with a larger party or simply want more room to stretch out and enjoy the journey, vintage wedding cars like the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow are ideal. It offers that classic wedding car style while providing a roomier rear cabin, making for a more comfortable journey.

Of course, many couples may not want a vintage wedding car at all and are naturally looking for alternatives to the Beauford. If this is the case, consider the Rolls-Royce Phantom 8, a modern wedding car that comes with every modern amenity, spacious rear seating that can be heated or cooled as needed, while still offering the timeless elegance we’ve come to expect from the Rolls-Royce range.

A major consideration with the Beauford wedding car is availability. Due to its popularity, you may struggle to secure one, especially during peak wedding season. While we pride ourselves on having the largest fleet of wedding cars on the market, it’s often a case of first-come, first-served with vehicles like this. So, if it’s peak wedding season, you may find it difficult to book a Beauford. In this case, alternatives like the Jaguar or Rolls-Royce make for fantastic options. These cars are classic statements of British heritage and craftsmanship in their own right. They also prioritize comfort as well as style, allowing you to make an attention-grabbing entrance no matter which wedding car you choose.

Other Considerations When Hiring Wedding Cars

Whether you’re choosing vintage car hire or modern car hire, there are plenty of factors to consider when hiring a wedding car. We’ve already touched on a few, but it’s vital to think about every minor detail to ensure your day goes off without a hitch. This includes things that may seem obvious, like checking the car’s availability, the number of cars you need, and any additional details not included in the packages offered.

It may sound obvious, but confirming the car’s availability well in advance is incredibly important. We’ve had many cases where couples have called just a week or so before their wedding day. While we do cater to last-minute bookings, it depends on what we have available at that time. The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have to choose from.

Another important consideration is the peak wedding and prom seasons. These times are incredibly busy for both vintage and modern wedding car hires, meaning availability can be limited. Booking well in advance is highly recommended during these times to secure the car you want. Additionally, booking early often means you’ll get a better deal, with more options and better prices when you book a few months ahead.

The number of cars you need is another key factor. The size of your wedding party plays a crucial role. Many people hire a wedding car just for the bride and her father, which is ideal when hiring something like a Beauford, as the space is limited. However, you may need additional cars for the rest of the wedding party, so it’s important to plan accordingly and consider how many cars will be required on the day.

We pride ourselves on being completely transparent about our prices and any costs that go beyond the basic car booking. If it’s just a matter of hiring a luxury wedding car to take you to your destination, the price will be straightforward. However, additional fees can apply depending on factors such as the length of the journey and any multiple stops along the way. This is because the car and chauffeur will be required for a longer period. Most people hire the car by the hour, so it’s essential to factor in how long the journey will take. However, if you’re hiring the car for the day, this won’t affect the price of your trip.

While we offer a few bespoke services that are included in the price, we understand that some couples may have additional requests. We do our best to accommodate all requests, but more elaborate ones may come with a small price increase. To ensure there are no surprises, it’s best to discuss any special requests with the consultant during the initial phone call, so they can be upfront about any additional costs.

Some companies may offer self-drive wedding car hire, and occasionally people will ask about this option at Phantom Hire. However, all our luxury wedding cars are chauffeur-driven. This ensures a smooth, stress-free journey for the bride and groom, as well as the entire party. It also allows us to maintain a level of service that self-driven wedding car companies simply can’t match.

How to Guide – Vintage Wedding Car Hire or Modern Wedding Car Hire

You’ll be relieved to know that the process of hiring a vintage wedding car and a modern wedding car is essentially the same. From booking to your big day, our consultants and chauffeurs are here to make the entire process as easy and stress-free as possible.

Step 1 – Enquire:
When you first visit the Phantom Hire website, you’ll find enquiry forms designed to streamline your booking process. After filling out the form, our team of consultants will get back to you as quickly as possible—typically within an hour or even sooner. The form includes mandatory fields such as your name and phone number, along with optional fields if you’d like to provide additional information about your wedding day before the call. If you prefer to leave those fields blank, no worries—our team can go over the specifics with you over the phone.

If you’d rather speak directly to someone, feel free to give us a call. One of our agents will answer every time—no waiting in queues or leaving messages—just a seamless way to get the information you need, quickly and easily.

Step 2 – Pick Your Car:
Once you’ve submitted your initial enquiry and are on the phone with our team, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting your wedding car. We’ll explain the advantages of each type, from the timeless elegance of vintage wedding cars to the sleek luxury of modern options.

Choosing between these two options can feel like a challenge, but our team is here to help. If you’re after a wedding day filled with nostalgic charm, a vintage car like the iconic Rolls-Royce or the elegant Beauford may be the perfect fit for your big day, adding timeless beauty to a traditional wedding.

If you prefer a sleek, modern look, our range of luxury cars—such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom, Bentley, or one of our glamorous limousines—offers comfort and style combined. You’ll enjoy the latest luxury features without sacrificing elegance.

Step 3 – A Personal Touch:
Now that you’ve chosen your perfect wedding cars, it’s time to add a personal touch. We offer a variety of customisation options, including ribbons in the colour of your choice, bows that match your theme, and flowers to make your day extra special. We also provide refreshments as standard, including luxury chocolates and your choice of soft drinks or champagne.

For an extra special touch, we offer custom number plates for your wedding car, featuring your name, initials, or something meaningful or fun to make your day even more unique.

Step 4 – Finalise the Details:
Once you’ve selected your car and personal touches, it’s time to finalise the logistics. This includes confirming pick-up and drop-off times, selecting your journey preferences, routes, and destinations to ensure a smooth and seamless wedding day experience.

Step 5 – Get Your Quote:
After finalising the details, we’ll provide you with an industry-leading, completely transparent quote. We’ll ask for a deposit to secure your booking, and the remainder of the payment can be made at your convenience.

Step 6 – Confirmation:
A few days before your wedding, our team will give you a quick call to confirm all details and check if there are any last-minute changes. Whether you’ve chosen a vintage or modern wedding car, we’ll ensure everything is set for your big day.

Step 7 – Enjoy the Journey:
On the big day, you’ll want to focus on what truly matters. That’s why our drivers will arrive on time and have a good knowledge of the local area, ensuring you arrive in style and comfort. Whether you’re stepping into a vintage Rolls-Royce or a modern Bentley, our team will take care of the details so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Choosing between vintage or modern wedding car rental is an exciting decision when planning your wedding, but it can also feel a bit daunting. We hope this guide has been helpful in making your decision easier. Rest assured, no matter which option you choose, both modern and vintage wedding cars offer elegance, luxury, and will make an incredible addition to your special day.

By considering factors such as style, budget, and practicality, you can find the wedding car that best fits your needs. So, if you’re ready to book your dream wedding car, reach out to us today and let us help you find the perfect car for your big day.