Make Your Wedding Day Special with a Horse Drawn Carriage

Before the cars and automobiles were invented, the horse drawn carriages ruled the streets. People used horse drawn carriages for every type of transportation and they used the carriages for every purpose. Traders loaded goods on them, people rode those to go to places, couples took those for a leisurely evening and even they arrive for the marriage on a horse drawn cart and went off to honeymoon on these carriages as well.

Now we use cars for every purpose and people have started to miss the elegance and liveliness of the horse drawn carriages. While using these carriages for daily commotion is not possible in this time and age, we have kept the tradition of horse drawn carriages alive for certain special days. Wedding day is still one such day where the bride would surely love to arrive on a horse drawn carriage.

In the fairy tales, which give ideas to girls for their wedding day, the princess always arrived on a carriage, drawn by a pure white horse. On her wedding day, every woman is a princess, for herself, her parents and her friends. Of course, she is the princess for the groom as well and she would love to arrive at the spot like a princess. Thankfully, there are some special agencies who still offer a Victorian Landau, a specially designed coach for wedding purposes, on rent, along with white horses and manned by a trained, skilled and experienced coachman in a befitting attire.

People tend to think that these coaches and packages are expensively priced because they are not common service. However, this is far from truth. Because the agencies depend on occasional hiring, they can't keep the prices so high that the potential client cancels the idea of hiring the horse and carriage. Moreover, these agencies have trained their horses for long journeys and busy city roads so hiring them is still a good idea if you are in London or your venue is not near. The experienced coachman also knows how to handle his horses.

While people think of limousines and expensive cars as transport during wedding, you can really stand out from the crowd by hiring a horse and carriage for wedding. Not only you get the attention of the attendees, this becomes a day to remember for years. That is what every woman would want, the wedding day which she can vividly remember, even after decades.

Plan a Funeral: A Family Exercise

When the time comes to plan a funeral, you may feel helpless at the multitude of decisions you make. We question what we want to leave and bring to life around us and we hope that our choices will provide the support we need. Some decisions incur additional costs like a funeral carriage; others involve provisions that may create discomfort, even opposition. To talk about it will deepen your reflection, will shed light on the reasons for your choices and will reveal the essential thing to do. Since there is no second chance in this kind of event, it is advisable to take the time to look at the family which best corresponds to the needs expressed.

The hearse and vehicle for the family

For those who wish to go from the funeral parlour to the church and from the church to the cemetery, a hearse is to be expected for the deceased. Moreover, some families prefer to be together in the same vehicle to make this journey and will opt for a car for this purpose. The procession is a ritual that illustrates the last physical passage of the deceased surrounded by his relatives in the public square. In certain circumstances, it is possible to request that the procession pass before the residence of the deceased or any other significant place. And if you want to give the deceased a royal and dignified farewell, a funeral carriage also might be considered.

Burial

The burial of the body remains the choice of several. Having an opportunity to gather on the grave of the loved one is an important aspect for some. Choosing the gravestone and engraving an epitaph there are also gestures that allow one to express his attachment to the deceased and to testify of his passage on earth. Although this stage is demanding, it offers the possibility of accompanying the loved one to his last home.

Asian Weddings: The Breakdown of the Ceremony!

Marriage is part of one of the rites of passage in Asian customs. This is the most important of all and it is in this capacity that it is most often celebrated with great pomp. Young girls are married between the ages of 19 and 26 and men are married on average at the age of 26 as well. 

The wedding day

The wedding day is also punctuated by many rites that must be respected at the risk of compromising the longevity of the marriage. The latter begins by the arrival of the groom, on horseback or elephant or in a luxury car (for Asian weddings in UK, they usually go on carriage or even horseback). He waits for the bride to pass a garland of flowers around her neck. The priest then performs the rituals or "mandap" in the presence of the spouses and their parents. The latter take place in the following manner:

•    A prayer is first dedicated to Ganesh, the god of luck and wisdom.
•    The hands of the spouses are united but the latter are separated by a sheet and cannot yet see themselves.
•    A paste made of sugar of cane and cumin with positive virtues is placed on their heads before the cloth is dropped.
•    The groom will tie a rope made in herbs and braided around the size of the bride to support her in her new responsibilities.
•    He then passes two gold necklaces around his neck, symbols of commitment, protection and security he offers to the bride.
•    The scarves of the two married are knotted together to symbolize the longevity of their union.
•    The spouses each send the rice and then 7 times around the sacred fire to conclude the ceremony.

After the ceremony, both the bride and groom leave the venue in a horse driven carriage (for most cases of Asian weddings in UK) or luxurious car.

Make Your Wedding Day Special With Horse Drawn Carriages

Most of us get to play the bride or the groom only once in life and we would surely have the deep desire to make this day count. We want this day to be special enough to be etched into our memories forever. We would go that extra mile to make things just like we want them. And, that effort, exactly, leads us to horse drawn wedding carriages.

Horse drawn carriages for wedding is not a new thing, we can go back a thousand years and we will still find kings and rich people using these carts on their weddings days. While we have now what they didn't, cars and limousines, the nostalgic appeal of these carts are undeniable. Moreover, the girls always feel that they are a special princess on that day and wouldn't the fairy princess arrive for her wedding in a horse drawn carriage, just like we imagine it to be, in those fairy tales?

Making it easier for the couples and wedding planners, many professional agencies offer horse and carriage hire for wedding. They have black or white horses, in pair, which are trained for the crowded city roads and are kept in prime conditions. Then there is the liveried coachman who will drive the carriage, just like in the fairy tales. They will take you to the venue, wait outside for you to take the vow and then you can pose with them, for your special wedding photo.

Use Horse Drawn Funeral Coaches For Your Loved Ones

We all will go through that sad and painful experience of losing a dear one forever. Death is inevitable and no man or woman can escape this fate.

Making funeral arrangements is stressful and because we are already emotionally perturbed, our decision making skills are not at its peak. We tend to make wrong decisions during this period. We also miss important decisions like arranging for a funeral car or hearse.

A funeral carriage is important and often essential to travel to the burial place. Horse drawn wagons were the first thing which were used. While there are some modern options available now, the tradition lived on and thus, horse drawn carriages are still a popular choice for funeral cars or hearses.

We have started to call hearse different names now. Often you will hear a funeral coach or car being used instead. These modern terms seem a little less scary.

The horse and carriage funeral cost is not as much as it is perceived to be. People think that, because it is traditional, it might be costly now. That is completely against the ground reality. Horse drawn funeral coaches are easily available and they are available for affordable rents as well. They are accompanied by properly attired coachmen who will handle the horse to the funeral ground.

There are a few agencies who specialise in horse drawn funeral coaches and they have some antique but well-kept funeral cars to choose from as well.

Horses Can Be Your Ideal Transport

Every survival plan depends on transportation, to a large extent. Leaving your immediate location can often be the difference between life and death. There are times when your sophisticated vehicles don't do the trick. The roads are in horrible conditions, at time, due to adverse weather or it is too crowded because everyone else is trying to access it. In any case, you should have an alternate plan for transportation so that you can get out of that area and save your life.

I don't claim to be an expert of horses, in fact, I know very little of animal and their handling and care. However, I still realise one thing, there is no better way to get from point A to point B, than horses when every other means fail. Not always you need to be an experienced and expert horse rider. In fact, if you can attach a small and durable cart to your horse, you can carry your emergency sup-plies and your equipments with you while you go on foot. Or, you can ride the cart if you wish so. Horse drawn buggy comes to mind, for an apt example. One thing you should mind though, you should probably use a smaller breed of horse because that would be easy to handle and maintain because bigger horses often tend to be wilder.

In fact, if you choose a smaller breed, you can save considerably, comparing against larger animals. They need less food and less maintenance while they have almost the equal stamina. They are strong enough to pull a small cart so your purpose is served as well. You should not ride them for a 30 miles trip because that will be tiring for them. You should take breaks or walk on foot for some distance, allowing the animal the scope to breathe. If their hoofs are not properly taken care of, the stony roads can make it difficult for them.

An important factor to consider here would be the horse shoes. Wild horses travel for long distances without any shoes and they have no problem. Thus, the barefoot horses should face no problem, especially because they are domesticated and will travel much less, compared to their wilder counterparts. Barefoot trimming is rather popular practice these days and they keep the hoofs in great shape. However, if you must, they get to a good stable who will put horseshoes on, for your horse.

Horse Drawn Carriage For Alternative Funerals

Funeral is the last time we can show how much we loved the past one. This is the last journey which we will take along with the deceased. This is the last chance to tell everyone what he was, how he was, what he loved and what he preferred. This is such a special moment that we cannot make it a banal affair. We must make it elegant, different and unique so that people remember the last journey of a very special one.

While there are a few ideas of alternative funerals floating around, nothing is probably more elegant than the horse drawn cart. There are many agencies who are offering this service in London. The horse drawn carts can be availed locally and they have multiple beneficial features.

First of all, these horses are trained for the crowded city roads so they can arrive for your occasion even if you live in the posh city. Secondly, these horses can draw the cart for almost 8 miles which is enough for anyone to reach the church or the local graveyard. With special arrangements, some agencies will take it further. The horses and the cart are accompanied by cart drivers in matching attire. So, your theme of the Victorian era aristocratic funeral reaches new height.

Talking about the arrangement, the horses are available in pair of black or white so you can plan the theme accordingly. Secondly, you can ask for a single pair of horses or multiple pairs, depending on how much grand you want the final procession to look. Coming to the cart, the cart is mostly a Victorian era Landau which offer the best match. These are elegant carts which go well with this whole theme of alternative funeral.

We might think that these arrangements re not possible for common men because they are costly affairs. However, contrary to the popular belief, horse and carriage funeral cost is bearable for almost everyone. While it might not be as cheap as the mainstream funeral options, paying this little extra will allow you to make the funeral really different. Moreover, when we are arranging such an emotional occasion, budget can take a back-seat.

However, you should not hire the first agency you run into or the agency who quotes the lowest rate. Instead, check their experience, their licence, their horses and carts and then make your choice.

Give You Loved Ones A Theme Funeral!

A funeral is not necessarily solely for mourning. In the contrary, it should be an opportunity to celebrate the life of the one the funeral is for. Like award ceremonies where lifetime achievement awards are being handed, a funeral can also be a time where you recognize and value the contribution of your loved ones in your and everyone else’s life. For recognition and for a final goodbye, theme funerals are in great demand. The most popular theme funeral is the vintage funeral where you get funeral carriage drawn by horses which is really dignified.

If you want to go for the vintage theme funeral, one thing which will be striking is the replacement of the black hearse with 1950s car model. Indeed, a very classic and elegant way to give a final farewell to your loved ones. If would be even more striking if the deceased had a passion for vintage car or any classic car. This is the perfect way to show how much the deceased was esteemed while still among us. A themed funeral can also lighten the mood of the moment, since all funeral brings a lot of emotions, a theme funeral will help in directing people’s thoughts to better times. There are also garden funerals and other themes which would suit the deceased more.

Use Paper Lanterns and Fans in Asian Themed Wedding

Asian themed wedding are becoming popular among the white section of the society as well. Asian decoration has its own appeal and during wedding celebration, it simply looks stunning, sophisticated, soothing and simple. Asian decor has the exotic flavour which creates an extraordinary atmosphere for the wedding. You can use Asian theme and decor for your own wedding as well. In fact, there are specialised decorators who arrange Asian weddings in UK.

You are free to choose the time of your wedding, during day or evening. Evening is better because then you can use the famous paper lanterns. You can choose mini lanterns in good numbers or you can choose large paper lanterns. While the first has mostly decorative purposes, the latter can easily be the primary source of lighting during your wedding. No matter what the theme of your reception might be, you should not miss the ubiquitous red lanterns. Red is the colour from Chinese culture, something which you want to reflect in your reception.

One should not miss the fans either, in an Asian themed wedding reception. You can have either the sandalwood fans or the decorative silk fans and they would add a lot of Asian flavour in the decoration.  You can keep those on the tables as table decorations, in the centrepiece or can lie around the guest book. You can even print the wedding plans on these fans. Else, you can fold the napkins in the fan shape and complement the decor.

Vintage Themed Funerals Make The Last Journey Special

Funeral shouldn’t be all about mourning of the loss but it should also be the time to remember how the deceased lived his life. This can be the last opportunity to send off the departed in a style which is befitting to his or her way of life or philosophy of life. This is why themed funerals are becoming excessively popular and vintage theme is the most popular among all choices because they provide the personalisation that everyone can remember the last journey of the departed soul. Using the classic and elegant elements of the glorious past and mixing it with the sobriety of the occasion, it brings forth a lasting impression for everyone who has gathered to remember the departed soul on his last day.

What are the major elements of a vintage themed funeral? You can start by replacing the black hearse with a traditional hearse. The traditional hearse can be a remodelled car from the past, 1950s or older. Those cars bring a dash of aristocracy as well as a distinct nostalgia with it, reminding everyone of the youthful, joyous days of the departed one. They can also lessen the sad atmosphere and remind people of some of the best moments which the deceased has spent on earth. If this isn’t appealing, then you can also go for a horse drawn carriage. Contrary to popular belief, horse and carriage funeral cost is well within the reach of common man. This is a regal arrangement and adds some dramatic elements as the funeral procession proceeds among appreciative glances. 

A vintage theme can also be used on the funeral service itself and it helps to highlight the personality type of the deceased. A funeral card, designed in vintage style, is an effective way of creating an affectionate atmosphere and showing the world that you really cared about the deceased person and his likings.

About the reception, vintage elements can again add some class to the occasion. Specialist catering service can serve tea in authentic china cups and saucers, offer a range of distinguished buffets and allow you theme the event to the fullest extent while increasing the dignity of the departed soul and the occasion. These catering services also do floral arrangements according to the classical English taste and add some life to the occasion. Moreover, if you leave the arrangement of the materials to them as well, they will do it efficiently so that you are not distracted during a moment of great stress.

Points To Consider For A Perfect Funeral

When someone passes away, the funeral is the last journey he would ever make. Thus, every close relative and friends would want that to be a memorable journey. There are several considerations here which can make it a great funeral journey.

When choosing the most appropriate mode of transport for funeral, you need to pay attention to the following issues.

Style and type of hearse: You need to decide whether you prefer a traditional and standard hearse, horse drawn hearse or motor cycle hearse, limousine hearse or some other more personalised hearse?

Size of the funeral cortege: How many principal mourners need transport to and from the funeral? Please consider that a standard funeral limousine would carry six passengers, comfortably.  You need to also consider who is to travel in those cars in cortege.

Wheelchair access: Does any of the principal mourners in the cortege need wheelchair accessible vehicle? This would be an important consideration while choosing the transportation for hire.

The route of funeral procession:  you need to be very specific about the route the funeral procession would take. You also need to mention whether you need the transportation to carry you to another place after the funeral. Finally, you need to tell the cortege about the route to follow.

Funeral Transport Options

Horse drawn carriage: A Victorian horse drawn hearse is a fine option for a sober yet classy funeral. Drawn by two or four black or white horses, they would be perfect for a very special funeral. Contrary to the popular belief, funeral horse and carriage cost is not much either.

Horse and Carriage Funeral Procession for a Graceful Farewell

While making arrangement for the last journey of any near and dear one, you would obviously want to make the funeral as memorable as possible. At the same time, you would also need to consider your budget.  But apart from budget, you also need to consider a few other things.

Firstly, what type of funeral carriage do you want?  You can choose from limousine, motor cycle and even the classy horse and carriage funeral carriages.

Secondly, you need to also consider the distance the funeral procession need to travel and the route for this. This is important because whatever carriage you finalise, they would require to know this beforehand.

If you choose a horse and carriage funeral after all, you will be surprised to see the funeral house and carriage prices. They are well within your budget and the class and glamour they add to the funeral would simply be too much for the money you pay for them.

These carriages are drawn by either one pair or two pairs of white or black horse. They are handled by an experienced coachman in perfectly befitting attire. These horses are well trained to manoeuvre well on busy roads and intersections.  These horses are well kept so they look great and the Victorian era Landau is kept in prime condition to go along the horses.  These horses can run for over 8 miles at one go so even if the funeral procession needs to travel far, there are simply no problems.

Different Choices We Have For Wedding Carriage

Many people would gather for your wedding. The near and dear ones would come to bless the newly-wed couple and to attend the happiest day of their life. They expect to be well treated by the hosts. However, people are getting busier every passing day. The hassles for transport is becoming a nagging issue for almost everyone. Attending a wedding is becoming more of a troublesome duty than the fun it used to be.

It would be great if the guests get a ride to the wedding venue, comfortably and do not get lost in an unknown locality which they might be travelling to, for the first time. Wedding venues are generally in remote locations or are in extremely crowded locations.

If wedding transport is arranged for, they would pick the guests up from their home, office or shops, hotels and other predetermined meeting points and drop them at the wedding venue. After the wedding is done, the guests would be dropped back to their hotel, home or whatever spot they were picked up from.  They can also be dropped to their preferred location, if it is not too far.

Here are some carriage ideas which might help you to judge what type of carriage for wedding is needed.

Cars can be luxurious and private and extremely expensive choice for carriage for wedding. If you are planning for a budget wedding, cars would not be an ideal choice. However, if the budget is not an issue, cars are the best choice when it comes to wedding carriage, simply for the comfort they provide. But remember, even if you are not hiring classy cars, they would still be an expensive choice.

They would charge you the base fare, hourly charge, fuel cost, mileage cost, driver charges and other costs, taking the cost to a great height. If you hire them during peak demand time, the charges would soar even further. You can still hire cars but only for the VIP guests.

If most of the guests are residing in a hotel and your wedding venue is nearby, you can use the hotel shuttle service to transfer them to the venue. However, hotel shuttle services wouldn't go far. This is a very convenient option and you need to pay for the number of shuttles the hotel driver is doing. 

Finally, even if it is a bit unusual, you can think of the romantic and nostalgic horse drawn carriage for wedding. Keep this reserved for the couple alone.