How to Have a Winter Wedding on a Budget

Whether you have thousands of dollars to spend - or hundreds of thousands of dollars, your dream wedding is within reach, as long as you budget wisely. Remember, the best budgets are there to keep you from losing control and guide you - not make you feel stressed or guilty. 

If you’re in the early phases of wedding planning and looking for some budgeting tips, we’ve got you covered:

Figure out who’s paying. Perhaps just you and your partner are splitting the fees, or maybe each family is looking to help finance as well. If that’s the case, discuss with your family and your partner’s family, separately, to see what they’re looking to contribute and help shape your budget from there.

Do your research. You’ll need to know what things cost in your area before setting a final budget. Meet with multiple vendors, get printed price lists, and understand the ballpark of what certain services cost. You don’t want to have your budget for photography set at $1,000 only to find out photographers in your area charge upwards of $5,000!

Make a priority list. Figure out which wedding elements are important to you and start prioritizing. Does saying yes to the dress trump your floral arrangement needs? Does photography matter more to you than booking the best band/DJ in town? Whatever it is that you value most, prioritize. Then aim to put 75 percent of your budget towards those things [in case you need to spend a little more here or there].

Uncover hidden costs. Be prepared to explore hidden costs like overtime charges, gratuities, not to mention all the little things like stamps for RSVPs or marriage license fees. Having a good handle on what the extras will cost will help you cover it all - especially where the above ’75 percent’ of budget is concerned.

Be smart. With all the above situated, now it’s time to put all your budgeting and money management tricks to use. Keep all wedding money in a separate account so you can easily track all withdrawals and additions without confusing them with your normal daily funds. If you have credit cards that offer perks [like miles, rewards, or cash back], pay off wedding expenses with your card and reap the benefits! Just don’t forget to pay off your bill each month!

Since 1988, Dynasty Limousine has been the ideal choice for families in and around the Long Island area. Our massive fleet of limousines, party buses and shuttles will make it easy for everyone to travel in style and comfort!

Click here to contact us and book your ride!

The Most Beautiful Spots for Long Island Engagement Photos

It’s 2017 and Long Island wedding traditions keep getting bigger and better. One of those traditions include elaborate engagement photo shoots — and we LOVE this idea. Not only will these photos provide great imagery for your save-the-dates, but you’ll cherish them forever, along with your wedding photos. But with so many great locations on Long Island, how do you choose the perfect setting?

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Raphael Winery

Peconic, New York

Transport yourself to the village of Tuscany by having your engagement shoot at the breathtaking Raphael Winery. Here you’ll find stunning details such as: beautiful lanterns, intricate chandeliers, and balconies that overlook the vines. It’s gorgeous Great Hall and Renaissance Room provide a rustic ambiance — not to mention the magnificent grounds. Pro Tip: End your shoot with a delicious glass of vino!

A post shared by Nicholas Sideris (@n.sideris) on May 13, 2017 at 12:14pm PDT

The Muttontown Preserve

East Norwich, New York

Head to the Gold Coast to commemorate your upcoming nuptials at the Muttontown Preserve. Here you’ll find 550-acres of gorgeous fields, woodlands, ponds, and old estate grounds to capture the essence of your love. You’ll also come across the striking ruins of King Zog of Albania’s mansion — which make for a unique but dazzling shoot site.

A post shared by Liz White Pear (@whitepearphoto) on Jul 14, 2017 at 3:51am PDT

Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park

Brookville, New York

Another Gold Coast Treasure, the Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, is nothing short of magical — plus it’s full of both nature AND history. Here you’ll find all sorts of backdrops to choose from. The Camelia Greenhouse and Main Greenhouse are home to gorgeous plants including: hibiscus, succulents, and cacti. Depending on the time of year, you’ll also find woodland paths strewn with wildflowers; finely-manicured landscapes; and even magnificent cherry blossoms and magnolias.

Why not make the day even more special? Dynasty Limousine is here to help — reserve one of our cars to get you to and from your destination and roll up like the King and Queen you and your boo are! Contact us today for more information and availability.

Wedding Proposals | What You Need To Know

Guys, you may not realize it, but the story of how you proposed will actually be told for the rest of your life. You better make it good! There are even companies dedicate to planning marriage proposals, like The Yes Girls Events. To take some of the heat off, we’re here with some romantic ways to propose that will make her sure to say, “YES!”

A post shared by HowHeAsked (@howheasked) on Apr 18, 2017 at 6:28pm PDT

Creative Marriage Proposals

Be creative. Your marriage proposal gives you the opportunity to add a personal touch. What do the two of you love? Is there something she’s always hinted at? If you’re going to do it go all out and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’re loved ones are sure to be willing to lend a helping hand.

A post shared by HowHeAsked (@howheasked) on Jan 25, 2017 at 2:24pm PST

At-Home Marriage Proposals

Do the two of you value your Netflix and Chill time? Do you frequently stay in more than you go out? Home is where the heart — so decorate your digs with gorgeous candles and flowers and propose in the place where your relationship has blossomed. Afterward, invite your friends and family and friends over to toast your love.

A post shared by HowHeAsked (@howheasked) on Apr 23, 2017 at 11:12am PDT

Destination Marriage Proposals

Want your proposal to be more intimate? Whisk her away to a surprise destination and use the beautiful, natural scenery to set the scene. Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the end of your trip. You’ll want to bask in the newly engaged bliss before heading back to reality.

A post shared by HowHeAsked (@howheasked) on May 12, 2017 at 11:24am PDT

Public Marriage Proposal

Today, truly public marriage proposals are going out of style. They are viewed as attention seeking and less than intimate. Rather than making a public spectacle, arrange to have both of your families go incognito somewhere nearby where they can view the proposal as it happens and make plans for a surprise engagement party to follow. Can you think of better way to share the news with your loved ones?

Once she’s said yes, let the planning begin! If you have any questions about renting the right transportation for your wedding party’s needs, contact us today at 631-587-8500.

Since 1988, Dynasty Limousine has been the ideal choice for brides and grooms in and around the Long Island area. Our massive fleet of limousines, party buses and shuttles will make it easy for everyone from the Bride and Groom to the wedding party and guests to travel in style and comfort!

Hacks to Pay for Your Wedding

You said YES — now it’s time to plan that big, fat, expensive Long Island wedding!

Inevitably the more planning you do, the more daunting your wedding price tag can become. That’s why we’ve taken the time to lay out these five hacks to make paying for your wedding a little bit easier.

Seek Out Vendors Who Offer Payment Plans

A common practice among wedding vendors is to require a deposit at the time of booking with the remaining balance due on the big day. However, many are willing to work out payment plans with you — just be sure to ask up front, as not all vendors will oblige.

Attend Wedding Expos

We highly recommend attending as many wedding expos as possible during the planning process. It may seem tedious — especially if you already know what you want, but many vendors offer special discounts during these events. Check out this list of upcoming bridal events on Long Island and in New York City, courtesy of LIWeddings.com. Make sure you keep any free gifts or discount codes you receive well organized so you don’t miss a beat.

Enter Contests

Is your favorite designer running a contest for a free wedding or bridesmaid dress? What have you got to lose? Many companies offer sweepstakes with chances to win money, dresses, honeymoons, and/or services. Pro Tip: You’ll frequently be entering your email address on websites while planning your dream wedding. Create a NEW email address for all of your wedding planning needs. This way you won’t have to weed through promotional wedding emails until the end of time after you’ve said: “I do.”

Use Credit Cards that Offer Points or Cash Back

While using credit to fund your wedding isn’t ideal if you have to do it make sure you’re using a card that gives you the most for your money. Open a new card that offers 0-percent interest for the first year and a low-interest rate after that. You’ll also want to make sure there’s some sort of cash back or points program. Imagine racking up enough frequent flier miles or hotel reward points to pay for part of your honeymoon?!

Look for a Venue that Offers Package Deals

Last but not least — there are beautiful venues on Long Island that offer all-inclusive wedding packages. One of our favorite deals is for The Cottage at East Wind. Book their special wedding package for 100 guests at just $9,995.  

Last but not least, don’t forget to build wedding day transportation into your budget! Dynasty Limousine is the ideal choice for engaged couples across Long Island. We combine an impressive fleet of immaculately kept luxury vehicles with professional and experienced drivers. If you have any questions about reserving a car, limousine, or party bus for your wedding day, contact us 24/7 at: 631-587-8500.

Free Long Island Events to Check Out this Memorial Day

It’s almost Memorial Day Weekend and you’ve got nothing planned for you and the kids to enjoy! Never fear, Dynasty Limousine is here! Attend one of our favorite family friendly Long Island events. — Did we mention they’re all free to attend?

9th Annual Memorial Day Weekend Show on the Green

Friday, May 26, 2017-Sunday, May 28, 2017

Montauk Green

745 Montauk Hwy.,

Montauk, NY 11954

Spend your weekend exploring art! The Montauk Artists’ Association hosts its 9th Annual Memorial Day Weekend Show on the Green. Montauk Village Green transforms into an outdoor gallery of exquisite original, handmade art. You can even commission a piece of art made just for you! Admission is free and open to the public.

Hours of Operation: Friday from Noon-6 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.   

Westbury Market Fair & Flea Market

Saturday, May 27, 2017

8 a.m.-4 p.m.

The NYCB Theater (Parking Lot)

960 Brush Hollow Rd.,

Westbury, NY 11590

The NYCB Theater is hosting The Westbury Market Fair & Flea Market in its parking lot this Memorial Day Weekend. Enjoy an authentic outdoor shopping experience with a little something for everyone. You'll find bargains on name brand merchandise, cosmetics, watches, clothing, shoes, antiques, art, jewelry, crafts, perfume, children's toys, bicycles, and much more!

21st Annual Community Mosaic Street Painting Festival

Sunday, May 28, 2017

Noon-5 p.m.

Riverhead, NY

The 21st Annual Community Mosaic Street Painting Festival welcomes artists, musicians, and art lovers of all ages. Hang out along the Peconic River for a day-long celebration of the arts. This event features the Italian street painting style of "I Madonnari", a street chalk art form dating back to the 16th century.

2017 Memorial Day Parade & Open House at the Raynham Hall Museum

Monday, May 29, 2017

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Raynham Hall Museum

20 West Main Street,

Oyster Bay, NY 11771

Attend the Raynham Hall Museum’s 2017 Memorial Day Parade and Open House. Following the festive and historical parade, kick back and enjoy music, old-fashioned games, and refreshments.

Don’t forget, Memorial Day isn’t just about enjoying that extra time away from the office — it celebrates those men and women who gave their lives serving our country. No matter how you choose to celebrate this weekend, Dynasty Limousine wants to make sure you stay safe. Reserve one of our cars to get you to your destination safely. Contact us for more information and availability.

5 Secrets to Crushing the Wedding Game

Of course, the most important part of your wedding is the ceremony itself, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t throw an out-of-this-world reception to celebrate your nuptials with friends and family. Never fear, we’re here with five secrets to crushing the wedding game!

1. Plan Surprise Entertainment: The best wedding receptions are the ones where you don’t know what’s coming next. Plan some unexpected entertainment during cocktail hour or dinner — like a professional dance performance (check out The Honey Taps) or aerial entertainment.

   A post shared by stanley green (@stanbymee) on Apr 28, 2017 at 4:16am PDT

2. Serve a Leisurely Dinner: Let’s be honest —  the best part of every wedding is cocktail hour? So why limit yourself to only ONE hour. Instead of a sit-down dinner, opt for something more leisurely. Make cocktail hour last all night long so guests can mingle, dance, and have their fill of yummy food whenever they get hungry.

   A post shared by VIP Caterers (@vipcaterers) on Jan 30, 2016 at 9:55pm PST

3. Add a Lounge: Sometimes, weddings are so much fun your guests need a little break! Designate an area of your reception, whether it’s outside or in the lobby area, for your guests to lounge for a few minutes after they’ve given it all they have on the dance floor!

   A post shared by danaegrace_events (@danaegrace_events) on Mar 22, 2017 at 6:29pm PDT

4. Keep Your Guests Informed: Don’t forget to keep your guests informed. Nothing is worse than planning an epic after party, only to have most of your guests go home because they didn’t know it was occurring. Chalkboard signs or a framed itinerary on each table are a cute way to get the word out.

5. Make Transportation Arrangements for Guests: Are you reserving a hotel block for friends and out-of-town guests? They’ll be thrilled to find out you’ve arranged to have a shuttle bus bring them to and from the venue. Again, be sure to let everyone know in advance so they can plan accordingly. This can easily be done by adding a note to the accommodations card in your invitation.  

   A post shared by Emilia Mocarski (@emocarski) on Aug 8, 2015 at 4:19pm PDT

Dynasty Limousine’s massive fleet of limousines, party buses, and shuttles will make it easy for everyone from the Bride and Groom, to the wedding party, and guests to travel in style and comfort. We’re one of the largest and most established limousine services on Long Island with a long history of wedding transportation. Contact us today to discuss your options 631-587-8500!

7 Wedding Transportation Tips

With warm weather, comes spring engagements! It’s easy to get sidetracked with all of the excitement. We’re here to remind you that it’s important not to neglect your wedding transportation plans. Get started today with these six simple wedding transportation tips:

1. Be Creative: Sure, a traditional white stretch limousine is nice, but you have the opportunity to get creative with your wedding transportation. Why not opt for our white Rolls Royce Phantom V on the big day?

2. Don’t Forget Your Friends: While you aren’t required to provide transportation for your bridal party, it’s certainly a nice gesture. It also minimizes the stress of worrying about whether or not everyone will be on time. Consider booking one of our Cadillac Escalade Limousines.

3. Book a Shuttle for Out of Town Guests: If you’re reserving a hotel block for friends and out-of-town guests, it’s wise to arrange for a shuttle bus to bring guests to and from the venue. That way no one will have to worry about choosing a designated driver or calling an uber. Choose a bus from our fleet to get your guests from point A to point B in style! (Pro Tip: If you’re planning a gathering at the hotel bar after the reception, a shuttle is a great way to ensure more of your guests attend the after-party — even if they’re not staying overnight.)

4. Pad Your Reservation Time: Unexpected delays can throw a wrench in the most expertly planned weddings. Be sure to pad some extra time for each trip you’ll be making. About 20 to 30 minutes should do the trick. (Pro Tip: Make sure you do research on any irregular events that may be taking place around town that could impact your trip. IE: Sporting events, festivals, street fairs, etc.)
5. Be Picky: It’s completely reasonable for you to be a bit picky on your big day. Feel free to make special requests, from the type of champagne you want to be stocked to the type of music connection you require (like an AUX cord for your iPhone.) You can also request a specific dress code for the drivers to adhere to. We’ll do our best to fulfill all of your needs.
6. Book in Advance: Finally, our last and most important piece of advice. Book your vehicles as early as possible. Once you have the date, ceremony, and reception sites set, you should start thinking about your transportation needs. If you’re planning a Long Island wedding, you already know things book up well in advance and transportation services are no exception.

Dynasty Limousine is one of the largest and most established limousine services on Long Island with a long history of wedding transportation. Our massive fleet of limousines, party buses, and shuttles will make it easy for everyone from the Bride and Groom, to the wedding party, and guests to travel in style and comfort. Contact us today to discuss your options 631-587-8500!

Spotlight on: Our Bridal Shops

Long Island's Premiere Limousine Service

P: (631) 587-8500

Calling all newly engaged couples - not only are we equipped to handle your wedding transportation, we truly can help with every stage of your wedding process. How? Glad you asked!

While Dynasty Limousine caters to customers seeking transportation in all five boroughs, both counties, out to The Hamptons - our sister companies are what help make us your one stop shop for your upcoming nuptials. Learn a bit more about each, below:

Village Bridal and Boutique

A photo posted by tiffani 💋 (@misstiff723) on Oct 30, 2015 at 4:57pm PDT

 
Our Village Bridal and Boutique, located adjacent to Dynasty Limo, carries all the attire a bride and groom (and rest of the bridal party) will need to look their best on their special day. This means gowns, dresses, tuxedos, plus accessories: veils, tiaras, jewelry, clutches, shoes, and just about anything else you can think of - all under one roof. 

With multiple experienced and professional seamstresses on premise - you’re sure to receive the perfect fit. When it comes to men, the TUX LOUNGE at Village Bridal carries top designers such as Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Perry Ellis, and Demetrios – just to name a few. For the highest level of service, we recommend making an appointment prior to visiting.

New York Bridal Outlet and Boutique

Sooo many beautiful wedding dresses to choose from 👰

A photo posted by Jamie Rojo Capito (@jemmajums) on Apr 4, 2015 at 2:49pm PDT

 
Located on Broad Hollow Road in Farmingdale, New York Bridal Outlet & Boutique helps brides and their bridal parties take advantage of the products and personal assistance that come with a high end boutique - but at outlet prices (up to 75 percent off retail!).

Our boutique carries designer wedding and evening gowns, off the rack options, plus a selection of NEW gowns that can be ordered in the size and color of your choice. But please note, if you see something you like - you may want to purchase. New arrivals come in daily and with the inventory always changing, there’s no guarantee it’ll be there on your next visit. Appointments are required and unlike other boutiques, photographs are always allowed!

Once you say yes to your dress, be sure to book your transportation with us! Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It should be filled with happiness, family, and friends, not stress or distractions. Dynasty limousines has been the ideal choice for brides & grooms in and around Long Island because we combine an impressive fleet of immaculately kept luxury vehicles with professional and experienced drivers.