BRAKING THE MOULD
Does the thought of choosing your wedding car make your wheels spin? Jacqueline Maya explores the benefits of modern wedding cars and why they’re becoming so popular.
Many celebrity and everyday couples alike are choosing to arrive at their wedding in modern cars over their vintage counterparts, but how do you know which style is right for you? Western Australia Wedding & Bride Summer Expo provides a sneak peek of what’s under the hood.
ALL THE MOD CONS
While vintage cars have always been a crowd favourite, many of them are not equipped with all of the creature comforts. Modern cars can offer all of the conveniences that a vintage car may not necessarily have – from the air-conditioning to the electric windows, it’s the little things such as these that will make your wedding entrance and exit a breeze.
When choosing your wedding transport, it’s important to consider what kind of features or requirements you want your wedding car to have. For those who are severely affected by the heat in the summer months, opt for an air-conditioned vehicle.
SHIFTING THE GEARS
When it comes to choosing your wedding car, remember that just like every facet of your special day, it’s another opportunity to showcase your personality and individual tastes. There’s no doubt classic cars will be used for years to come, however in recent years, modern wedding cars have increased in popularity because they add a little extra character to any style of wedding. Muscle cars can provide a bit of pizzazz, which simply cannot be beat. You only need to look at films such as The Fast and The Furious, Gone in 60 Seconds, and Tarantino’s Death Proof to see the incredible allure of a muscle car.
While muscle cars deserve the spotlight in their own right, another reason for their rise to fame is the increase in themed weddings. Brides and grooms across the country are making their wedding entrances in the A-team’s van or the ‘General Lee’ Dodge Charger from The Dukes of Hazard, and leaving in a show-stopping vehicle such as the Batmobile or the Delorean from Back To The Future. With fun and exciting options such as these, it’s easy to see why couples want their wedding day to be something straight out of a movie.
No matter what your personal style, there are plenty of modern wedding cars to suit just about any wedding theme, many of which are readily available for hire. Here are some favourites that will have you racing down the aisle.
THE FANTASTIC FOUR
The Mustang
Dubbed the quintessential ‘movie car’, the Eleanor, formally known as the 1967 Shelby GT500 Mustang is what dreams are made of. Featuring iconic racing stripes, this car has star quality! While the Mustang is an effortlessly timeless car, many models can now be modified into a convertible, which includes an electric roof that can be opened or closed at a moment’s notice. Mustangs are also extremely versatile, as they can complement older and newer vehicles alike.
The Corvette
The first generation of the Corvette was introduced in 1953, and since then, it has become an icon of popular culture. Designed by General Motors’ styling chief Bill Mitchell, the 1961 model, which is most commonly known as the ‘Mako Shark’ will create a feeding frenzy among your guests. Featuring a streamlined, pointed front, the car’s detailing was greatly inspired by the sleek, fast-moving blue pointer of the sea.
The Hummer
Not for the faint-hearted, the stretch Hummer has always been the car of choice for avid party-goers. However, it’s an economical, yet sizeable vehicle that can also accommodate large wedding parties. Available in a variety of colours, the Hummer can match almost any wedding theme, from classic black to bright pink, and some car hire specialists even offer striking patterns such as zebra print. This well-equipped vehicle has all the mod cons, ranging from a stocked drink fridge, plasma TV and DVD player, to neon lights, mirrored ceilings and crystal chandeliers. The stretch Hummer is the ultimate choice for a glamorous and entertaining ride.
The Tesla
If you’re an energy-conscious couple looking for a sleek and modern design, you can’t go past the Tesla Model S. Designed from the ground up, the Tesla Model S is one of the safest, most exhilarating cars on the market. Its unparalleled performance is derived from Tesla’s unique, all-electric powertrain. The Model S also comes with autopilot functionality, which was designed to make your drive safer and stress-free.
ALL REVVED UP
Now that you’ve seen what’s under the hood, there are a few things you should know about styling a modern wedding car for your big day.
In terms of decorations, less is always more. White ribbons are a perfect traditional option that suit both modern and vintage cars, while wedding signs are also a favourite among engaged couples. For those wanting to incorporate a time-honoured custom into their wedding, adding a ‘Just Married’ sign to your wedding car is the perfect choice. Apart from using decorations, there are many other ways you can enhance your wedding entrance and exit. If your wedding party is wild at heart, a fleet of Harley Davidson motorcycles riding alongside your Mustang will ensure the celebrations accelerate to the next level.
If you’re after a mode of transport that’s reliable, stylish, and won’t send you into overdrive, a modern wedding car will really drive the celebrations home.
Image credit: Ross Wallace Photography