'GET ME TO THE CHURCH ON TIME' is the way the song goes but it may not be fully appreciated how important a role your Bridal car and Chauffeur play on your special day.

Before you approach a car hire company, decide if one car can take your bridesmaids and mother to the church and on to the reception, or if a separate car is needed. (If you use one car for both bride and bridesmaids on a 15 minute journey to the church, the bridesmaids will need to be at the church 30 minutes before the bride.)

Local advertising may give you the telephone numbers of many so-called 'wedding car specialists' but it is not advisable to send a deposit (sometimes half the total charge) on the strength of a telephone conversation. Look for a well established full-time professional company which is still likely to be in business when your wedding day comes round.

Choose a firm who knows the area well. Knowledge of churches, reception venues and traffic conditions can be vital on the day. Viewing the car(s) and personal discussion of your requirements is recommended.

A wide variety of the unusual and rare cars are available today and it is no longer obligatory to have a white car, a colour to contrast with the dress is a serious consideration.

As well as traditional vintage, classic and modern Rolls Royces, lovingly restored British and American saloon and convertibles are available. You will also have the choice of an American Lincoln or Cadillac stretched limousine, but perhaps a seven-seat Daimler or Mercedes Limousine would be a better choice for your requirements.

Don't take it for granted that a car with a famous name automatically guarantees perfect condition! Maintaining and operating classic and vintage vehicles needs professional expertise.

Use a company that can offer several vehicles, and is able to provide backup should problems occur.