Yes, you can decorate a limousine for an event! Most limo companies let you add decorations both inside and outside the vehicle. You just need to follow safety rules and get permission first. The decorations must be easy to remove and not damage the car.
This guide covers everything you need to know about decorating limos. We’ll talk about safety rules, decoration ideas, costs, and tips for different events like weddings and birthdays.
What Limo Companies Allow for Decorations
Getting Permission First
Before you start decorating, always ask the limo company. Most companies say yes to decorations, but they have rules. The key is that decorations must not be permanent and must be easy to take off.
Some limo services even help with decorations. They might offer:
- Custom decoration packages
- Professional setup services
- Theme-based decoration options
- Complimentary champagne and flowers
What’s Usually Allowed
Most limo companies allow these types of decorations:
Inside the Limo:
- Balloons and streamers
- Ribbons and bows
- Flowers (silk works best)
- Banners and signs
- Table decorations
- LED lights (battery-powered)
Outside the Limo:
- Magnetic signs
- Window clings
- Ribbon on door handles
- Flower arrangements on antennas
- Temporary vehicle wraps
Limo companies are happy to allow customers to decorate vehicles with temporary decorations as long as they leave no permanent marks, holes, or glue.
Safety Rules You Must Follow
New Safety Laws in 2025
Recent changes in safety laws affect limo decorations. According to the New York State Senate, New York requires limo operators to give passengers safety presentations before trips, covering emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and window break tools. While this is specific to New York, similar rules may apply elsewhere.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provides safety guidelines for limousine operators that include maintaining clear visibility and ensuring passenger safety during transport.
Important Safety Tips
- Don’t Block Vision: Never put decorations where the driver can’t see
- Secure Everything: Make sure decorations won’t fall off while driving
- Avoid Glass: Use plastic cups and decorations instead of glass
- Keep Exits Clear: Don’t block doors or emergency exits
- No Fire Hazards: Avoid decorations that could catch fire
What’s Not Allowed
These decorations usually aren’t permitted:
- Anything that blocks windows or mirrors
- Items with permanent glue or tape
- Decorations that could fly off at high speeds
- Fire hazards like real candles
- Items that damage the car’s paint or interior
Best Decoration Ideas by Event Type
Wedding Limo Decorations
Traditional floral and greenery wreaths or garlands are classy and elegant, and can also be rustic if you are more for a boho wedding.
Popular Wedding Decorations:
- “Just Married” signs
- White and pastel ribbons
- Fresh or silk flower arrangements
- Tulle and satin fabrics
- Window clings with wedding themes
- Champagne glasses (plastic)
Wedding Color Themes:
- Classic white and silver
- Blush pink and gold
- Rustic burlap and lace
- Modern black and white
Birthday Party Limo Decorations
Birthday limos are fun to decorate! Nothing says celebration like colorful balloons attached to door handles and antennas.
Birthday Decoration Ideas:
- Colorful balloons everywhere
- “Happy Birthday” banners
- Age number decorations
- Themed streamers
- Birthday hats and party favors
- Personalized signs
Sweet 16 Special Touches:
- Pink and gold themes
- Crown decorations
- Glitter and sparkles
- Photo props
- Custom playlists
Prom Limo Decorations
You can decorate the limo and also decorate the people in the limo with masquerade themes.
Prom Decoration Themes:
- School colors
- Masquerade ball theme
- Hollywood red carpet
- Neon and glow-in-the-dark
- Vintage or retro themes
Other Special Events
Quinceañera Decorations:
- Pink and white themes
- Tiara and crown decorations
- Flower arrangements
- Spanish-themed banners
Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties:
- Fun and playful themes
- Photo booth props
- Silly banners and signs
- Party favors and games
Decoration Costs and Budgeting
Professional Decoration Services
Many limo companies offer decoration packages. According to industry data from USA Wire, additional services and amenities like decorations, stocked bars, and mood lighting enhance the experience but also add to the cost. Here’s what you might expect to pay:
- Basic decoration package: $50-$100
- Premium decoration package: $100-$250
- Custom themed decorations: $150-$400
Research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that limousine safety features and performance standards are continuously being evaluated, which affects how decorations can be safely installed.
DIY Decoration Costs
If you decorate yourself, costs are much lower:
Budget Options ($20-$50):
- Balloons from party stores
- Ribbon from craft stores
- Paper decorations
- Window markers
Mid-Range Options ($50-$150):
- Silk flowers
- Custom banners
- Quality ribbons and bows
- LED battery lights
Premium DIY ($150-$300):
- Professional-grade decorations
- Custom signs and banners
- High-quality flowers
- Special lighting effects
Cost-Saving Tips
- Book Early: Get better rates during off-peak times
- DIY Simple Items: Make your own banners and signs
- Reuse Decorations: Save items for future events
- Group Orders: Split decoration costs with friends
- Seasonal Sales: Buy decorations when they’re on sale
Step-by-Step Decoration Process
Planning Phase (2-4 Weeks Before)
- Contact the limo company and ask about decoration policies
- Choose your theme based on the event type
- Make a decoration list of everything you need
- Set your budget for decorations and services
- Order or buy decorations with time to spare
Preparation Phase (1 Week Before)
- Test decorations to make sure they work
- Prepare installation tools (tape, ties, clips)
- Create a decoration timeline for setup day
- Confirm details with the limo company
- Gather helpers if you need extra hands
Installation Day
For Professional Services:
- Arrive early to supervise setup
- Check that everything matches your vision
- Take photos before the event starts
For DIY Installation:
- Start with big items like banners and large decorations
- Add medium decorations like flowers and ribbons
- Finish with small details like confetti and party favors
- Do a safety check to make sure nothing blocks the driver
- Take photos of your finished work
After the Event
- Remove all decorations carefully
- Clean up any mess to avoid extra charges
- Save reusable items for future events
- Thank the limo company if they helped with setup
Working with Chicago Limo Companies
Skyline Chicago Limo Decoration Services
Skyline Chicago Limo offers excellent decoration options for all events. They allow decorations inside the limo to match your theme and ask customers to let them know in advance.
Services They Offer:
- Wedding transportation with custom decorations
- Birthday party limos with fun themes
- Sweet 16 limo service with elegant touches
- Prom limo service with school colors
Other Chicago Limo Services
Several Chicago companies help with limo decorations:
Echo Limousine: Known for professional service and clean vehicles Windy City Limousine: Offers custom decoration packages Royal Limo Services: Provides themed decoration options
Booking Tips
- Call ahead: Ask about decoration policies when you book
- Be specific: Tell them exactly what decorations you want
- Get it in writing: Make sure decoration agreements are in your contract
- Ask about setup: Find out if they help with installation
- Confirm timing: Know when you can access the limo for decorating
Common Decoration Mistakes to Avoid
Safety Mistakes
- Blocking the driver’s view with decorations
- Using permanent adhesives that damage the car
- Forgetting to secure items that could fall during travel
- Ignoring weight limits for decorations
Planning Mistakes
- Not getting permission from the limo company first
- Waiting too long to plan decorations
- Forgetting about weather for outdoor decorations
- Not having backup plans if decorations don’t work
Budget Mistakes
- Underestimating costs for professional decoration services
- Not comparing prices between different options
- Forgetting cleanup fees that some companies charge
- Not accounting for damage deposits required by some companies
Legal and Insurance Considerations
Liability Issues
When you decorate a limo, you might be responsible for:
- Damage to the vehicle from decorations
- Cleanup costs after the event
- Safety issues caused by decorations
- Loss of decorations during travel
Insurance Coverage
Check with your insurance about:
- Coverage for decoration damage
- Liability for accidents caused by decorations
- Protection for expensive decoration items
- Coverage during transportation
Company Policies
Each limo company has different rules about:
- What decorations are allowed
- Who can install decorations
- Damage responsibility
- Cleanup requirements
Make sure you understand all policies before decorating.
Creative Decoration Themes and Ideas
Seasonal Themes
Spring/Summer Events:
- Fresh flower arrangements
- Bright, cheerful colors
- Outdoor-inspired decorations
- Light, flowing fabrics
Fall/Winter Events:
- Rich, warm colors
- Seasonal flowers and leaves
- Cozy lighting effects
- Holiday-themed decorations
Popular Color Combinations
Classic Combinations:
- Black and white for elegance
- Gold and silver for luxury
- Red and white for romance
- Pink and gold for celebrations
Modern Trendy Colors:
- Rose gold and blush pink
- Navy blue and copper
- Emerald green and gold
- Dusty blue and cream
Theme-Based Decorations
Hollywood Glamour:
- Red carpet runners
- Gold star decorations
- Movie-themed props
- Elegant lighting
Vintage Style:
- Lace and pearls
- Antique-style decorations
- Soft, muted colors
- Classic flower arrangements
Modern Minimalist:
- Clean, simple lines
- Single-color themes
- Geometric patterns
- LED lighting effects
Future Trends in Limo Decoration
Technology Integration
New decoration trends include:
- LED strip lighting that changes colors
- Bluetooth-controlled decorations you can manage from your phone
- Projection systems that display custom images
- Smart glass that can change from clear to decorated
The transportation industry continues to evolve with new safety and technology standards, as outlined by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, which affects how modern limousines can be customized and decorated.
Eco-Friendly Options
More people want environmentally friendly decorations:
- Biodegradable materials for outdoor events
- Reusable decorations that can be used multiple times
- Living plants instead of cut flowers
- Solar-powered lights for energy efficiency
Personalization Trends
Custom decorations are becoming more popular:
- 3D-printed decorations with personal touches
- Custom photo displays inside the limo
- Personalized lighting schemes that match individual preferences
- Interactive decoration elements that guests can change
Final Thoughts
Decorating a limousine for your event is not only possible but can make your special day even more memorable. Most limo companies welcome decorations as long as you follow safety rules and get permission first. Whether you choose professional decoration services or do it yourself, the key is planning ahead and communicating clearly with your limo company.
Remember to prioritize safety, respect the vehicle, and have fun with your creativity. From elegant wedding themes to fun birthday celebrations, the right decorations can transform your limo ride into an unforgettable experience.Ready to book your decorated limo? Contact Skyline Chicago Limo today to discuss your decoration needs and make your next event truly special. Their experienced team can help you plan the perfect decorated limo experience that matches your vision and budget.
