The Backup Plan Limousine Service

Corporate Growth

Limousine companies and executive car services can range form the very small, with maybe only a handful of vehicles, to the internationally massive with a fleet numbering in the thousands.  What is the path to expansion and successful growth?  Many times we see companies that reach too far and overextend, ending up underfunded and soon out of business.  On the other hand we see companies that simply exist and continue on at the same pace never growing, never expanding, sometimes its because the owners are afraid of taking a chance, sometimes its due to the acceptance of mediocrity or complacence.  Regardless the reason, the goal in business is to build, to thrive, not simply to exist or to meander forward never reaching that next level.  What are the best ways to reach that next level?  How does a limousine company grow to achieve success?

One of the best ways to grow as a limousine company or an executive car service is to attack the corporate market.  The executive car service industry is frequent and continuous it is different then the celebratory limousine industry in that you get that guaranteed repetitive business.  CEO’s and executives always need to travel and that will never change.  The corporate side of the industry is not an easy one, not exactly as demanding as some weddings can be, but it requires not an ounce less professionalism.  Securing regular corporate cliental is key as these companies have a large budget for transportation.  In addition just like in the wedding industry your name will become known in the corporate circles, you will garner a reputation as a company who is able to offer that consistent level of premiere service.   In truth as a limousine service this is the best way to grow.

In the end there are multiple avenues to take in regards to company growth but perhaps the most efficient is to attain that corporate customer, the company that is going to use you every week and hopefully every day.  You will need to have a quality service if you hope to maintain such an account but if the quality is there then the most efficient course of action is the corporate solicitation.  You will become know as a company that is able to provide what these CEO’s and executives need.

All Star Limousine is a Long Island, New York based company with an extensive global reach; we provide expert Wedding, Special Event and Executive Travel services throughout the Tri-State area and the world. We have over 30 years of experience in the travel industry; our attention to detail, 2013 top-of-the-line vehicles and professional trained Chauffeurs set us apart from the rest!

by Jarrad Kulick 

The Journey (Part II)

John and Mary were then told about our incredible chauffeurs, who we brag about tirelessly because these ladies and gentlemen deserve the praise.  So many people think well all they do is drive a car, but in reality it is so much more.  These chauffeurs are logistics experts thoroughly familiar with the areas they service, they are more then just punctual, they will help facilitate the day coordinating with the florist, the church and the photographer to make sure things go smoothly and all the details are attended too, all the while dressed immaculately in a black tie tuxedo.

We explained to them our checks and balances system and how meticulous we are with the confirmations.  The organization and the dedication we approach any wedding day with so that nothing falls through the cracks and that everything is perfect.

They were shown our incredible fleet.  All Star Limousine has a brand new 150-car fleet of only the latest model vehicles.  We also have one of the most beautiful and stunning antique collections in the world, these antiques are certified mint condition vehicles with redone interiors, electrical systems and engines, so they not only look great but they run great too.  We took them on all the different types of buses we carry, giving them all the options for the hotel shuttles and the accommodations for their out of town guests.   Being an executive car service as well we even offered to arrange transportation to and from the airport for their honeymoon.

Needless to say John and Mary were so impressed they booked that night.  Excited and relived, knowing in full confidence they had made the right decision, the young couple approached the remaining months of the planning process with a new sense of ease and assurance.

The day of had finally arrived and the young couple and their families were overjoyed.  The weather was perfect, the dress and flowers gorgeous; everything was exactly how it should be.  20 minutes prior to the arranged pick up time the lead car had arrived a stunning 1962 Rolls Royce, the driver politely and professionally announced himself and the bride and groom could not have been more pleased.   Moments after the bride and her father departed an 18 passenger Escalade pulled up for the bridal party, an impressive and incredible vehicle.

Upon arrival at the church the driver helped the bride with her dress and laid down the white isle runner.  The driver of the Escalade had arrived previously with the bridal party and had spaced the procession perfectly, adjusting boutonnieres and pocket squares as requested.  The extended and passionate vows caused the ceremony to run slightly over but due to the coordination between the photographer and the chauffeurs everything ended up back on schedule prior to the arrival at the catering hall.

The night was amazing, John and Mary looked at one another with wonder and amazement at how truly perfect everything had gone.  Ending the evening with a ride home in a town car with less then 5,000 miles on it, it was quite and peaceful and got them back home with no issues or delays.

To Be Continued...

Gratuity (When, Who and How Much to Tip)

The term gratuity and the act of tipping has been around for at least 500 years, and some experts speculate that the custom has been in effect since the medieval era.   The word itself either stems from the Latin gratuitas, or "freely given", or the French gratuite, or "free gift".  In many countries especially in the United States, tipping is expected in most service industries; in other countries, like Japan it is an insult to offer a tip.  In the US sometimes the expected gratuity isn’t exactly clear, nor is the expected amount.  “Do I tip the guy who just pumped my gas? What should I give him?”  ”How much is a good tip for the pizza delivery guy?”  “20% of this bill is like $400, is that really what I have to give?”   If you or someone you know has ever asked these questions read on.

First of all it is important to understand that the basic premise of a tip or gratuity is to reward a job well done, or to express the appreciation of a good service provided.  If you are sincerely dissatisfied with the services performed, do not tip.  Some restaurants build a gratuity into there pricing, if you are very dissatisfied with the service or the food talk to the manager about the included gratuities (in this situation I would not demand the money back, but I would at least voice my dissatisfaction).  For the most part however many service providers expect a tip and many, such as waitresses and bartenders, make their living off of their gratuities.  It is poor etiquette not to tip, and it is horrible to fabricate some reason to be dissatisfied with the service just so that you can get out of an expected gratuity.

In general here are the individuals who should be tipped unless specified otherwise by the company they are employed by (as in the case of a restaurant already including a %20 gratuity in the bill).  Waiters and waitresses, bartenders, bellhops, drivers and chauffeurs, concierge, housekeeping or maid service, delivery people (especially for food), tour guides, hair stylists, masseuses and movers.   When tipping a percentage %10 indicates dissatisfaction with the service, %15-%20 indicates the service was good, and above %20 signifies outstanding service.  Certain professions such as a valet or doorman a tip of $3-$5 is customary although it may vary depending on the cost of your accommodations.

Then we have a bit of a grey area, these are professions or services where some people tip and others do not, resources remain very much divided on the etiquette involved in tipping these individuals.  For repairmen or contractors, such as plumbers or electricians, tipping is generally not expected, as the hourly wage they make, especially when in a union, is relatively high.  However is these individuals go above and beyond and provide services not specified at the time of hire it is not unheard of to offer a tip (if ever in serious doubt you can ask them).   Sanitation, workers, mailmen and people like the paperboy or milkmen often receive tips and gifts around the holidays but again some people do, some people do not.   Finally when your car is being serviced, or the gas attendant pumps your gas and washes your windshield, these ladies and gentlemen sometimes receive a small gratuity.  This varies significantly from state to state and company-to-company but tipping in the range of $1-$5 is not unusual; again it is ok to ask, especially if you frequent the establishment often.

Ultimately a gratuity is up to you but for some services it is expected and it is considered poor etiquette not to tip.  In the United States tipping is very much expected for many service providers and we hope our little guide helps you the next time a gratuity is in question.  When in doubt it is OK to ask.  No matter what though it is always important to thank those that service you and to show your appreciation by being polite and grateful.

All Star Limousine is a Long Island, New York based company with an extensive global reach; we provide expert Wedding, Special Event and Executive Travel services throughout the Tri-State area and the world. We have over 30 years of experience in the travel industry; our attention to detail, 2014 top-of-the-line vehicles and professional trained Chauffeurs set us apart from the rest!

Introducing the New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Extended Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Limousine.

Far more then just another Van the brand new 2013 Mercedes Sprinter combines the stylish luxury of the Mercedes brand name with the practicality of an economy cargo van.  When it comes to shuttling people the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Passenger Van is all about comfort and safety.  Featuring room for up to 12 adults, best-in-class one roof, side step-in heights and a wide entry there exists no other passenger van with such a comfortable and inviting interior.  Above all else the innovative Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van has its passengers safety as its highest priority.  A long list of cutting edge amenities and safety features highlight this versatile and Avant guard vehicle.

The Sprinter is the winner of three Vincentric best fleet value in America awards as well as best in class interior standing height.  The Mercedes-Benz legacy and brand has always been synonymous with innovative technology, safety, quality, comfort and reliability.  The new Mercedes Sprinters are well ahead of the curve and represent the next evolution of the standard passenger and cargo vans.

In addition to the standard Sprinter All Star Limousine offers the luxurious Mercedes-Benz party style Sprinter limousine.  All the incredible features and amenities offered by the standard Sprinter are also included in the super deluxe limousine version.  Boasting tinted windows, two 32 inch flat screen televisions, a Bose audio system with 8 speakers and true surround sound, DVD player, WiFi, supple leather wrap around seating for ten, lights and fluctuating fiber optics this vehicle is in a class all its own.   In fact this vehicle is a one of a kid and is found only at All Star Limousine!  In addition to the ultra luxury featured by the Sprinter Limousine one of its most attractive features is the ability to enter and exit while standing strait up!

These vehicles are the perfect choice for those small group outings and corporate events.  Stylish yet conservative, comfortable and practical but still with a luxurious and sleet aesthetic the sprinter is everything you could ever ask for in a Passenger Van class vehicle.  So whether it’s a trip to the airport with a large amount of luggage, a corporate outing, a celebratory event or a shuttle service for your upcoming wedding there is only one choice; the brand new and innovative Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Mercedes-Benz Deluxe Sprinter Limousine only at All Star Limousine!

All Star Limousine is a Long Island, New York based company with an extensive global reach; we provide expert Wedding, Special Event and Executive Travel services throughout the Tri-State area and the world. We have over 30 years of experience in the travel industry; our attention to detail, 2013 top-of-the-line vehicles and professional trained Chauffeurs set us apart from the rest!

by Jarrad Kulick

Macari Vineyards

Beautiful and harmonious, Macari Vineyards are located in Mattituck on Long Islands North Fork.  Operated by the Macari family the land has been owned by the Macari’s for over fifty years, however the vineyard was established relatively recently in 1995.  Boasting a wide range of wines the 200-acre Macari Vineyard is not only beautiful but veritable wildlife conservation. 

Joseph Macari Jr.  is considered a pioneer in natural farming.  One of the things that set Macari Vineyards apart from the competition is their emphasis on respecting the land and maintaining the integrity of the amazing eco-system that exists on Long Island’s North Fork.  Originally a potato farm the Macari Farmland has been transformed into a sprawling vineyard that produces a wind range of vintages including everything from crisp Savignon Blanc’s to luscious Merlot’s.  The farmland is also home to incredible variety of wild life including Texas Longhorns, Sicilian Donkeys, red tail hawks, and spotted blue herons.  Since their very first breaking of ground Jospeh Macari Jr. has practiced and adopted the latest and most tried methods of biodynamic principals allowing the vineyard to flourish all the while preserving the land and soil.

Macari Vineyards is more an extension of Long Island as opposed to a location within it.  A wide selection of wines and a passionate respect for the land on which they grow sets this vineyard apart from the rest.  As much a wildlife preservation as it is a vineyard Macari is a shining example of the natural beauty found on Long Islands North Fork.

All Star Limousine is a Long Island, New York based company with an extensive global reach; we provide expert Wedding, Special Event and Executive Travel services throughout the Tri-State area and the world. We have over 30 years of experience in the travel industry; our attention to detail, 2013 top-of-the-line vehicles and professional trained Chauffeurs set us apart from the rest!

by Jarrad Kulick