The right limousine can turn a special evening into a spectacular one.

Few vehicles convey style, class and luxury like a limousine, which is what makes these cars favorite choices for once-in-a-lifetime events like proms and weddings. But limos are also perfect for turning other types of special evenings into magical nights out, and can be just the ticket for impressing or dazzling someone important to you. So how do you make sure you'll get the limousine you want at a decent price?

Entrepreneur Cecil Coleman got his start in the transportation industry ten years ago as a chauffer. Eight years later he started his own company, Classic Limousine Service, and has been going strong ever since. Here he offers insider tips for getting a good deal on a great limousine:

• Follow your taste. Not all limousines are created equal, and there are vehicles to suit all tastes and purposes. From sleek, understated town cars to eye-popping stretch limos and newer "stretch SUVs," you'll have your choice of many combinations of exterior and interior styles. Some companies offer photos of their vehicles on their brochures, advertisements or websites, and this can be a great help in choosing the right limousine for your needs.

• Get the specifics. When you contact a company, be sure that they answer all of your questions. Ask how old the vehicles are, what extras are included in the price, specific rules regarding conduct in the vehicles, and questions about the driver. In some cases, you may be able to visit the company and check out the vehicle in advance.

• "Morning of" discount. Many of us are used to planning special events far in advance, but Coleman states that waiting until the last minute can have its advantages. If you call a limousine company in the morning to rent a vehicle for that evening, they will often offer discounts in order to secure your business. After all, a limo left in the garage is a limo that isn't earning them income. Of course, this strategy can be a mistake at certain times of the year, like weekends during the peak prom and wedding seasons.

• Rates and tips. Limousines are typically rented at an hourly rate, and drivers are usually tipped about 20 percent of the total bill.

• Make it a spectacular night. When Coleman has someone special that he really wants to treat to an amazing night on the town, he always includes a limousine as part of the evening. It's like taking things up a notch on the class scale, and it rarely fails to impress.

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