Consumer Tips Can Help Guide You

Happily Through Prom, Wedding Season

HARTFORD — Because thousands of Connecticut families are preparing for weddings, proms, graduations, and other special events this spring and summer, the Department of Consumer Protection offers these reminders and tips.

Before renting limousine service for a special occasion, consider the size and type of vehicle you want and decide how many hours you need. Visit websites of local limousine and livery companies to view their vehicles and packages. Prices may or may not be posted online, but always call to confirm prices and availability. Check with friends and family for names of reliable companies.

“You want to be sure you’re dealing with a reputable business, so make sure the company is licensed in Connecticut and fully insured,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell Jr said. “Ask for the company’s Connecticut permit number and then check with the Department of Transportation at 860-594-2868 to verify that the company is in good standing. If your limousine ride will take you out of state, the operator needs an interstate permit in addition to the Connecticut permit.”

Verify the year and make of the vehicle you’ll be getting, its condition, and any complimentary amenities. You might visit the company in person to choose the exact vehicle you want. Ask the company for references and call them.

When you reserve your vehicle, be sure that you and the company mutually agree and understand the ending time for the rental. Some companies calculate it as the time your last passenger gets dropped off, while others determine that it’s the time the driver pulls back into their parking lot. Also, confirm whether there is an extra charge to get dropped off at a different location than where you were picked up.

If possible, use a credit card for your deposit and payment. Paying by credit card may afford you some protection if unexpected problems arise.

As a parent of a teen attending a special social event in a shared limousine or party bus, you and the other parents may plan to meet at the home before the bus or limousine arrives, to take pictures. This is a great opportunity for you and the other parents to reinforce the rules with your kids in a group setting.

It is also provides an opportunity for one designated parent to meet and speak with the limousine or bus driver and emphasize the importance of the rules for the evening.

If, on the appointed day, the limousine sent doesn’t meet with your satisfaction, ask for a refund of your deposit. Some consumers have been taken advantage of by companies that promise one type of vehicle and show up with something different and totally unsuitable. 

When renting formal wear, shop early for the best fit and selection. Ask friends and relatives for the names of shops they have found reliable. If possible, rent from establishments that have items in-store; if you have any last-minute changes or needs, they will be better prepared to help you.

Have measurements taken at the store about four to eight weeks before the event. The sales associate should measure around your chest (including and excluding the width of your arms); your waist at belt height; your hips; your neck; and your sleeve length from the center of your back. Ask whether the rental price includes minor alterations.

Rentals cost between $120 to $180 plus tax for pants, jacket, shirt, tie, cummerbund, shirt buttons, cufflinks, socks and shoes; additional items will cost extra. When you leave a deposit, ask for a receipt that specifically details everything you’ve reserved and includes the date the items are due back at the store.

You should go in for a final fitting one week before the event for any slight adjustments or alterations.

When the party is at your house, don’t permit teens to drink alcohol at your home or on your property, don’t serve persons who are already inebriated, and have plenty of nonalcoholic beverages on hand.

“The minimum drinking age is 21 in Connecticut because we know it saves lives,” Mr Farrell said. “Families that ‘bend the rules’ are breaking the law and putting their loved ones and friends in harm’s way.”

The commissioner said his agency continues its ongoing collaboration with local police departments and the Governor’s Prevention Partnership to identify and take enforcement action against businesses that sell alcoholic liquor to minors.

“We intend to have a strong presence in local communities in the upcoming weeks and months,” Mr Farrell said. “Retailers can help in assuring that this year’s prom and wedding season will be filled with happy memories, not tragedy.”

The department works to ensure a fair and equitable marketplace, safe products and services for consumers in Connecticut. For more information, visit the Department of Consumer Protection’s website at www.ct.gov/dcp.