Wedding Party Transportation Tips

By Olivia Nicoletti, owner of Olive Fine Weddings

Before hiring a bus for your wedding party, consider the logistics of your wedding day.  If you both are getting ready outside of your ceremony location, a bus is essential to move groups of people around town efficiently. The bus ride can also be FUN! 

By Sally O’Donnell Photography

By Meg Adamik Creative

Most couples hire a vehicle to pick up their wedding party from their getting ready location to popular Chicago spots for photos, like the Lakefront, the Art Institute, or the Lyric Opera House.  Chicago bus drivers are pros at navigating these crowded spots! Some couples, especially those who decide not to have a first look, hire a bus to pick up the bride and ladies and bring them to the church, and then all of the wedding party loads up after the ceremony for a post-ceremony celebration and photo transportation.


There are two main types of vehicles for groups of 15-25 people in Chicago: party buses or trollies!  Both are appropriate for all kinds of weather because a typical trolley can close up the windows, balcony, and doors for a comfortable trip, even during the winter.  Both typically have music hookups and a variety of options for seating arrangements, like whether the seats all face forward or face each other. 


When booking a vehicle, consider how many guests you plan to transport.  Are the plus ones of a wedding party joining you?  What about family?  Groups of over 25 people usually need to go for a larger bus.  Trollies typically max out at 25-27 guests. 


A few important notes about hiring buses in Chicago

  • Most buses will offer a one-way option (will take you from point A to point B only once) or have an hourly minimum, usually 3 or 4 hours (will take you to a variety of spots within the time frame booked).  Usually, wedding parties fall in the latter category, so you can price shop across a few vendors for the best price point. 

  • If you plan to bring alcohol on board, a security guard is required to accompany your party on the bus.  They are an extra cost, but not significant.

  • Consider the bus company’s review (or ask your planner! ;)).  The most important characteristic of a bus is that it is reliable.  Some of my favorite vendors are Pontarelli Companies, Second City Trolley, M&M Limo, and 312 Limo.

  • Gratuity is a must for your bus driver.  But, before taking out extra cash, check the contract!  Some companies already include it in their cost. 

By Tim Tab Studios

Tips & Tricks, Transportation, Bus, Trolley, LimoNicole FaulsOlive Fine Weddings & Events