How Many Limos Do You Need for Your Wedding? Calculator & Guide
How many limos do you need for a wedding?
Most weddings need 2-4 vehicles: one stretch limo for the bride and bridesmaids (6-10 people), one SUV or sedan for the groom and groomsmen, one sedan for parents, and optionally a shuttle bus for guests. The formula is: count your bridal party, divide by vehicle capacity, and add one vehicle for parents and one for the couple's getaway.
"How many limos do I need?" is one of the most common questions couples ask when planning wedding transportation. The answer depends on your bridal party size, the number of locations in your day, and whether you need guest shuttles. This guide provides the exact formulas and vehicle capacity charts you need to calculate your requirements.
The Wedding Vehicle Calculator
Use this step-by-step formula to determine your exact vehicle needs:
Step 1: Count Your Bridal Party
Bride + bridesmaids + flower girl(s) = Group A
Groom + groomsmen + ring bearer = Group B
Step 2: Count Family Members Needing Rides
Parents of bride + parents of groom + grandparents = Group C
Usually 4-8 people who need dedicated transportation.
Step 3: Match Groups to Vehicles
Group A (1-6 people) = 1 SUV or sedan. Group A (7-10) = 1 stretch limo.
Group B (1-6 people) = 1 SUV. Group B (7-10) = 1 stretch limo or party bus.
Group C = 1 sedan or SUV for parents and grandparents.
| Wedding Size | Bridal Party | Vehicles Needed | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intimate (under 50 guests) | 2-4 attendants | 1-2 (sedan + SUV) | $600-1,200 |
| Medium (50-150 guests) | 6-10 attendants | 2-3 (limo + SUV + sedan) | $1,500-3,000 |
| Large (150-300 guests) | 10-16 attendants | 3-4 + guest shuttle | $3,000-5,500 |
| Grand (300+ guests) | 16+ attendants | 4-6 + 2 guest shuttles | $5,000-8,000+ |
Vehicle Capacity Quick Reference
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Executive Sedan | 2-3 passengers | Parents, couple getaway |
| SUV (Escalade/Navigator) | 5-6 passengers | Small bridal party, groomsmen |
| Stretch Limo | 8-10 passengers | Bride + bridesmaids, classic option |
| Party Bus (Small) | 14-20 passengers | Large bridal party, both groups combined |
| Sprinter Van | 10-14 passengers | Bridal party, VIP family group |
| Guest Shuttle Bus | 40-56 passengers | Guest transportation between venues |
When You Need Guest Shuttles
Guest shuttles are separate from bridal party vehicles. You need shuttles when:
- Ceremony and reception are at different locations: Guests without cars need transportation between venues.
- Parking is limited or expensive: Downtown Chicago venues often have valet-only or garage parking at $30-50 per car.
- Many out-of-town guests: Guests staying at hotel blocks need rides to venues, especially when locations are not walkable.
- Alcohol will be served: Providing safe transportation home demonstrates care for your guests' safety.
For detailed shuttle planning, see our Guest Shuttle Planning Guide.
Money-Saving Tips for Wedding Transportation
- Combine groups post-ceremony: After the ceremony, bride and groom can share one vehicle, reducing the total fleet needed for the photo tour and reception.
- Use one party bus instead of two limos: A party bus for 18-20 people often costs less than two separate stretch limos and keeps everyone together.
- Same-venue ceremony and reception: Eliminates the need for guest shuttles entirely, saving $800-1,500.
- Book all vehicles from one company: Package discounts of 10-15% are common when booking multiple vehicles together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many limos do I need for a wedding with 8 bridesmaids and 8 groomsmen?
For 8 bridesmaids plus the bride (9 people) and 8 groomsmen plus the groom (9 people), you need 2 vehicles minimum: one stretch limo for the bride's group and one for the groom's group. Add a third vehicle for parents and grandparents.
Do I need separate transportation for wedding guests?
Guest transportation is separate from bridal party vehicles. If your ceremony and reception are at different locations or parking is limited, guest shuttles are recommended. One shuttle bus holds 40-56 passengers.
How much does wedding transportation cost for the full bridal party?
Full bridal party transportation in Chicago typically costs $1,500-$4,000 depending on vehicle choices and hours. Budget 3-5% of your total wedding budget for transportation.
Can the bride and groom share one limo?
Many couples share a limo after the ceremony for the ride to photos and reception. Before the ceremony, they typically ride separately. Book one primary limo for the bridal party pre-ceremony, and the couple shares it post-ceremony.
Get a Custom Vehicle Count for Your Wedding
Tell us your bridal party size, venue locations, and guest count. We will recommend the exact vehicles and timeline for your day.