Convertible wedding car hire

Why a convertible is such a popular wedding car

A convertible gets you noticed. With the roof down, the bride and groom are visible to guests and passers-by, which adds a festive feel to your arrival and departure. For the photographer it is a gift: you sit in the light, with no roof or pillars in the frame. On a summer's day it is also simply wonderful to drive through the countryside with the wind in your hair.

The word cabriolet comes from a light, open carriage and stands for a car with a roof that can open completely, whether made of fabric or metal. A roadster is a sporty open two-seater, while a convertible often has a back seat too. Some cars have a fabric roll-back roof, like the Citroën 2CV, which does not open fully but still gives you the feeling of an open car.

Classic and modern convertibles as wedding cars

Open cars come in all shapes and sizes: small and cheerful, sporty and low, or large with a back seat for four. Broadly speaking, you can divide them into classic convertibles with character and modern open sports cars with more comfort.

Classic convertibles with character

The Porsche 356 is one of the most sought-after classic convertibles: low, rounded and timeless. The Volkswagen Beetle as a convertible is more cheerful and a little more modest, with room for four. The classic Ford Mustang convertible from the sixties brings American flair. You will also find Italian and English open classics, such as an Alfa Romeo Spider, a Fiat 500 with a roll-back roof or a Mini.

Modern open sports cars

If you want comfort and peace of mind, choose a modern convertible. Think of a Porsche Boxster or 718, an Audi R8 Spyder, a Maserati GranCabrio or a modern Mustang. These have air conditioning, heating and a roof that closes within moments, handy if a shower catches you by surprise.

Also think about the order of the day. Many couples travel to the ceremony with the roof up, so that hair and veil stay intact, and only open the roof afterwards for the drive to the photo location or the party. That way you get the best of both.

Practical tips for a convertible on your wedding day

A convertible calls for a plan for the weather. In the Netherlands it can rain in any month, so agree with the rental company when the roof will go down and how quickly it can be closed. With a classic car this is often done by hand and can take a while; with a modern convertible it usually takes just the press of a button.

• Hair and veil: open-top driving means wind. Ask your hairdresser for a style that can take a bit of a knock, and take off the veil while driving.
• Sun: in full sun the bride can burn quickly. Apply sun cream beforehand and choose a route with some shade.
• Cold: in spring and autumn a shawl or jacket is far from a luxury.
• Dress: many convertibles are two-doors. A full dress will fit, but getting into the back is awkward. Let the bride sit in the front.

Choose your route carefully: a quiet country road, a dyke or a tree-lined avenue shows off a convertible best. Long stretches of motorway with the roof down are mostly just noisy. Compare the convertibles above and request a quote free of charge.