I have the uniquely fortunate position of managing both The Veranda @ The Whitcomb and Sunset Coast Trolley Company. It’s easy to see how the two compliment each other so very nicely. And because I often get questions about transportation needs in my role at The Veranda I thought I would share some of my insights into the fun of trolley-ing!
First of all – here she is! Our pride and joy – the Marna-Nonna! Isn’t she just so charming?
What I love about the trolley:
It’s different. It isn’t the typical limo or charter bus so it adds some unique flair to your wedding.
It’s open air or weather protected – so be it nice and sunny or cold and snowy – the trolley will keep you comfy.
It seats a whole mess of people – 34 to be exact.
Coolers are welcome! Mix up some white wedding punch and throw it in a cooler with the infamous red solo cup and voila! – party on wheels.
And of course there are so many more reasons – but we’ll stop tooting our own horn now (ok, really bad pun….)
The Million Dollar Question: Do I Need Transportation?
I can’t tell you how many times couples go back and forth over this question – especially if most of the wedding’s activities are relatively close together. Every decision is going to involve different factors but here are a few things to consider:
Where are you taking pictures? – If you are having photos done at a location other than the ceremony or reception sites you will need to get there somehow. From past experience – this is much easier if you all travel together and have your photographer with you throughout. No getting lost, no running late, no “who’s riding with who”, etc….just so much easier.
Are many of your guests from out of town? – If yes, chances are they will not be familiar with the area and take it from a directionally challenged individual – nothing is more stressful than getting lost in new territory so if I can hop on a trolley and forget about where I’m going I already think this wedding is fantastic!
Is Parking Available? – If there aren’t easily accessible or free parking spaces around your ceremony or reception sites you may want to consider transportation from either hotels or a “car pool” spot so guests don’t have to contend with this issue. Another consideration – if you are doing a beach here in St. Joseph – there may be a need to pay for admission/parking – and again you don’t want guests to fork over cash to share in your wedding!
And last, but certainly not least – Are you Planning on Enjoying Some Adult Beverages? – Many guests see weddings as a time to celebrate to the fullest so keep them safe! Our trolley offers a “Celebrate Safe” Package that is designed just to get guests safely to their final destination whether it’s home or a continued party locale. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve attended a wedding (or driven our shuttle!) and heard “SO GLAD we aren’t driving!”. It’s a great plus for your guests.
So if the question is still up in the air, or you want more details on what our trolley can offer, please let me know – I’ve plenty more to share!
-kristin ♥