Rolling with Industry Association Changes

Posted On: 03/29/2020

For 35 years, the private transportation industry has been well served by a partnership between the National Limousine Association (NLA) and LCT (Luxury Coach and Transportation) magazine. Last March, shockwaves hit our industry when they announced the end of their relationship.

The split was unthinkable. The two entities had been an unstoppable alliance depended on by everyone in the industry.

Since then, NLA has partnered with another publication (Chauffeur Driven) and launched a competing trade show in Las Vegas just days after the LCT Show Las Vegas 2020. You’ll note both limousine tradeshows are in the same location.

Impact on WSL

As a provider of private car service in Chicago, WSL has been a member of the NLA for a long time. We also count on LCT to keep us up to date on industry developments.

We know that LCT is the better of the two industry publications, but it is no longer associated with the national trade organization to which we belong. We were suddenly faced with the prospect of two national industry show in Vegas, just two weeks apart.

WSL attended the first annual International LCT Trade Show to get a sense of what direction they may be headed. Since it was the first time the show was offered, they have some work to do. It was a much smaller show than we were accustomed to. 

In one sense, it's nice to have one voice with all the power players consolidated under one tent. On the other hand, competition is really what drives business. Maybe there is a need for two limousine tradeshows, albeit not timed so closely together.

WSL is curious to see how this all plays out moving forward because we truly rely on the information and support of the national organizations. We are going to continue supporting both groups for now and see what happens.

Hopefully, the competition will push the efforts at the national level to new heights, and WSL and our clients will be the beneficiaries.

Asked to Be a Maid-of Honor? Time to Prepare the Wedding Emergency Kit

Posted On: 03/24/2020

Your best friend just asked you to be her maid-of-honor. Now what? You already know you need to help select the bridal party dresses, plan the bachelorette party and prepare a toast for the reception. You may have even done the research on Chicago wedding limos to make sure everyone rides in style to the wedding.

But, if you really want to be there for your pal, consider putting together a wedding emergency kit so no matter what happens on the big day, you’re prepared to fix it.

You can give the kit as a gift at one of the many bridal showers that will soon fill your calendar. Or, just bring it along on the day of the wedding and pull it out when needed.

Wedding Emergency Kit Checklist:

Blotting Papers: Steal a tip from makeup artists and bring along a pack of blotting papers to remove oil and shine from the bride’s face throughout the day.

Cold Hard Cash – Stash at least $50 in small bills and change in the bag for tips or a sudden need for a Snickers bar from a vending machine.

Earring Backs: It’s possible your friend could lose the back of an earring when removing her veil, fixing her hair or on the dance floor. Make sure she remains fully accessorized by backing a few replacement earring backs.

Lip Balm – Lips can feel dry during the long day. Bring a few tubes of lip balm along to hand out to the bride, groom or other members of the wedding party.

Medicine/First Aid Kit: Bring along some pain reliever, allergy and indigestion remedies to fight last-minute ailments. It’s also a good idea to have band-aids at the ready for blistered feet or small cuts.

Mini Sewing Kit: Finally, a use for the mini sewing kits you’ve stockpiled from hotel visits.

Portable Phone Chargers – Bring at least two charged portable phone chargers and cables to give mobile phones a boost during the day so no one misses an important text or photo opportunity.

Safety Pins – Make sure to pack a few safety pins in a variety of sizes to manage wardrobe and jewelry emergencies.

Snacks – Hangry brides are unhappy brides. Pack some granola bars or other finger foods that don’t cause a mess to help keep blood sugar levels even.

Tissues – Weddings are an emotional time. Have tissues on hand to dab happy tears or for small spills.

Ready for the Big Day!

If an emergency arises, you’ll be the hero who planned ahead.

Be sure to check out tips for the best wedding venues for photographs to help your friend pick a reception site that will shine in photos. And for the best limo service in Chicago, be sure to contact WSL. We’re thrilled to be a part of one of the most important days in peoples’ lives.

To get all the details on our various wedding packages - Stretch Limousines, SUVs, Party Bus, etc. - please contact our Special Events coordinator, Sheryl, at 630-668-9600 x246. Sheryl is available Monday through Thursday, 8:00am to 2:00pm.

Are You Ready For Some Baseball!

Posted On: 03/16/2020

Spring training is already well underway. That means the official kickoff of the 2020 baseball season is almost here. Opening day is Thursday, March 26, the earliest starting date ever when not factoring in international games. For the third consecutive season all 30 clubs will open on the same day.

The Chicago Cubs are scheduled head north to open the 2020 season against the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park. The home opener at Wrigley is March 30 against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Chicago White Sox open the season at home at Guaranteed Rate Field versus division-rival Kansas City Royals as part of a three-game series (off day on March 27).

This season follows on the heels of revelations of a sign stealing scandal involving the Houston Astros. Members of the Astros organization cheated by using a video camera to steal signs of opposing teams during the 2017 (the year they won the World Series) and 2018 seasons.

Cubs fans are probably more concerned about trade rumors swirling around beloved third baseman Kris Bryant. The infielder recently lost his service time manipulation grievance and will become a free agent after the 2021 season. This outcome makes him an attractive trade.

On the bright side, David “Grandpa Rossy” Ross from the 2016 World Series champion team will be back in the Cubs’ dugout to replace fired Joe Maddon as the team’s manager.

One thing never changes when it comes to Major League Baseball games…driving to and from the games is a hassle and parking is very expensive. That’s why WSL recommends booking car service in Chicago. That way all your transportation needs are taken care of from pick-up, drop-off and safe transport back home.

We can accommodate big groups in our luxury Sprinter van. Or book a stretch and enjoy all the limousine amenities while you sit back and let one of our professional drivers handle the road. No matter what option you choose, you’ll arrive in style. WSL only uses late-model, luxury vehicles. Just tell us how many people are in your party, and we’ll pick the car, SUV, limo or bus that ensures your group is comfortable.

As soon as you get your tickets for the 2020 baseball season, give WSL a call or book online to reserve a vehicle and driver.

Dealing with the Coronavirus Risk When Traveling

Posted On: 03/09/2020

News about the worldwide spread of the coronavirus has people making preparations for possible disruptions to their lives. At WSL, we’re monitoring the situation very closely and will make adjustments as needed.

Our current operating procedures are already in line with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We take great pride in providing our clients well-maintained, clean luxury vehicles for their private transportation needs. After every ride, drivers wipe down inside of the vehicle in preparation for the next client. We also ask our drivers to continue to be vigilant about washing their hands and not work if they feel ill.

Health Guidelines from the CDC

People are continuing to travel both for business and personal reasons. Here are some commonsense tips from the CDC to keep in mind when you’re on the road.

• Monitor travel restrictions – the CDC maintains a website with risk assessment levels for travelers. Current countries that the CDC recommends people avoid for nonessential travel include China, Iran, South Korea and Italy. The organization also suggests older adults or those who have chronic medical conditions should postpone travel to Japan.
• Clean your hands often – throughout the day, you should carefully wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60-95% alcohol.
• Don’t touch your face – keep your hands away from your face to avoid introducing germs to your mouth, nose and eyes.
• Limit touching surface in public areas – this step is difficult but try to limit the number of surfaces you touch when moving through public areas. Keep a supply of tissues handy to use as a barrier between your hands and surfaces you must touch, such as elevator buttons and handrails.
• Learn about your employer’s emergency operations plan – get up-to-speed on your employer’s guidelines for what to do if you become sick while traveling or are delayed in returning home because of government restrictions.
• Ditch the facemasks – the CDC does not recommend using a facemask to prevent yourself from respiratory diseases, including the coronavirus.
• Don’t travel if you don’t feel well – stay home if you are sick to avoid spreading germs to other travelers.

It’s important to prepare for the impact of the coronavirus not only because we might feel at risk personally, but also so we can lessen the risk for others.

Snow and Cold? Nothing Stands in the Way of Chicago Winter Fun!

Posted On: 03/01/2020

Winter in Chicagoland can be unpredictable. One day it seems like Spring has arrived, only to be followed the next day by blustery winds and freezing temperatures. But you can always count on venues throughout the area to deliver a fun line-up of entertainment options.

Here’s a few of our favorites:

An Orchestral Rendition of Dr. Dre: 2001 – March 7

This is no ordinary orchestral event. Expect performances from various DJ’s, lyricists and singers as well as a full orchestral rendition of Dr. Dre’s: 2001 album, followed by other west coast classics from Dre. Get the full rap star experience by booking limo services in the Chicago suburbs.

St. Patrick's Day activities – Multiple Days

Check out our round-up of family-friendly event and activities to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Friends: The TV Show You Continue to Love

Are you a fan of the popular TV show Friends? Check out Friends trivia night on March 10 at Pinstripes in Barrington from 7 to 9 pm. Up for a road trip? Head to Twin Lakes, WI (just over the Wisconsin/Illinois border) to get your caffeine fix at Cup O’Joe, the Friends’-themed coffee house that just opened in February. Take some selfies on the Central Perk couch, in front of Monica’s and Rachel’s apartment door, and enjoy some Friends’ inspired drinks and treats.  

Chicago Flower & Garden Show – March 18

Enjoy the magnificent selection of more than 700 plant varieties, including a new exclusive Wave Petunia, unveiled at and only available for purchase at the show held at Navy Pier in Chicago.

Blake Shelton at Allstate Arena – March 19

The Blake Shelton: Friends and Heroes concert features The Bellamy Brothers, John Anderson and Trace Adkins, with very special guest Lauren Alaina. Check out our concert tips to get the most out of the evening.

Chicago Tattoo Arts Convention – March 20 to 22

Head over the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont to see more than 400 of the world’s best tattoo artists, tattooing live! Witness sideshow acts, live human suspension, burlesque and more.

Uncorked: Chicago Wine Festival – March 21

Enjoy over 200 wines and champagnes from across the globe, gourmet food vendors, virtual reality flight simulators and more amongst the exhibits of the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. Worried about drinking too many samples? Book a limo so everyone in your party can enjoy the fun and get home safe.

DuPage County Food Truck Festival – March 21

Get a taste of all your favorites at this indoor food truck experience featuring eight of the area’s best. Enjoy the DJ, beer garden and local vendor village. This is a family-friendly event with free parking at the DuPage County Fairgrounds in Wheaton. Check out all the fun things to do in Wheaton after you’ve filled your tummy.

Festival of Laughs 2020 – March 28

Get ready to laugh at the Arie Crown Theatre at McCormick Place in Chicago at this comedy festival featuring Sommore, Gary Owens, Tony Rock, Tommy Davidson and Tony Soo. Book private transportation service for easy in and out at the venue.

Donut Fest Town – March 29

Donuts + beer = the sweetest festival in town. Donut Fest curates a variety of favorite donuts that guest can sample along with beer, coffee and more at this fun-filled tasty event at the Church Street Brewing Company in Itasca.

Tips for a Family-Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Posted On: 02/25/2020

COMING SOON

Posted On: 02/18/2020

5 Reasons Why Parking at the Airport is a Bad Idea

Posted On: 02/13/2020

Learning How to Innovate

Posted On: 02/10/2020

WSL has offered quality transportation services to the Chicagoland area for more than 50 years. A big part of our success is staying in touch with what is happening in the professional car service industry. Our goal is to learn what’s up and coming, how it will benefit clients and what it will take to implement.

A few of us from WSL are headed to Las Vegas for the 2020 International LCT Show. It is the premier trade show for the luxury private transportation industry.

We’re excited for the show to get a chance to look at new technology and talk to vendors about products that can boost our business and improve the client experience.

We also plan to talk to industry folks about the future of sedans in the black car industry. The show offers several informal networking events where we plan to connect with old friends and make new connections.

We want to ask others what they think about the discontinuation of the Lincoln MKT, one of the most popular vehicles in our fleet. We are evaluating what replacement vehicles we want to purchase and have some strong opinions about what direction we’re headed. It will be great to get input from others in the industry and from the vehicle vendors who are exhibiting.

Vegas also gives us an opportunity to talk to other owner-managers from across the country to see what opportunities and challenges they face and how they overcome them.

One of the biggest benefits of getting away from the office is to escape our own little echo chamber. Although we've been around 53 years, we are still a small family-owned business, spending time with other industry folks is also a great way to recharge our batteries and get excited about new ideas and opportunities.

It's also fun to talk to newer operators who are experiencing challenges we may have dealt with 20 or 30 years ago when we were really starting to grow. It's fun to encourage folks and offer little bits of advice. So, while we’re learning, it's also rewarding to give back and spread some positive energy.

Stay tuned for insights on what we learn!

Lincoln vs. Cadillac: WSL’s Buzzworthy Competition

Posted On: 02/03/2020

When the 92^nd Academy Awards ceremony airs on ABC at 7 pm CT on Sunday, February 9, we’re rooting for Ford vs. Ferrari to win the Best Picture category. As a leader in the luxury transportation in the Chicagoland area, the movie is an inspired and heart-breaking look at the development of high-performance vehicles.

At WSL, we are in the midst of an evaluation that honors the spirit of the movie. Our spin-off could be titled: Lincoln vs. Cadillac: Private Car Service Showdown.

When most people think about private car pick-up service, Lincoln town cars come to mind. That model has been the gold standard of the black car industry for decades. Lincoln is changing its approach to the transportation industry and will no longer manufacture the Lincoln MKT.

The Future

Looking forward, as we update our fleet, WSL needs to decide what models to purchase. Will it be Lincoln Aviator Crossovers or some other Lincoln model or Cadillac Escalades?

Lincoln and Cadillac are both solid companies with excellent track records. In the past, WSL has favored Lincolns for a number of reasons:

• Superior engineering means better durability and fewer mechanical issues.
• Lower price points for both sedans and SUVs.

WSL has both Lincolns and Cadillacs in our fleet. In terms of appearance, both are beautiful and comfortable vehicles. What vehicle you prefer comes down to a matter of personal preference.

Cadillac Escalades and Lincoln Navigators are similar vehicles, but we have found that brand recognition seems to appeal to different demographics. The Cadillac Escalades trigger a more positive response with younger clients while the Lincoln Navigators are more popular with more seasoned travelers.

Spoiler Alert

While both Lincolns and Cadillacs are both great vehicles, WSL is leaning towards Lincoln because of the superior engineering. Bottom line, we expect Cadillacs to be in the shop more often and be more expensive to repair. Lincolns deliver the comfort, luxury and reliability we need to provide the best service for our clients. We still have some evaluations to do, but we’re close to figuring out the end of this story.

Spotlight on Wheaton

Posted On: 01/28/2020

When’s the last time you spent some time in Wheaton?  There are so many fun things to do in Wheaton. The town with more than 50,000 residents is about 25 miles west of Chicago. It is home to Wheaton College, a private liberal arts college known for its education programs informed by Evangelical Christianity. The school is sometimes referred to as “The Harvard of Evangelical schools.”

Wheaton is listing among the “Top 25 Highest Earning Towns” in a CNNMoney report. The tony incomes support a vibrant downtown with several unique mom-and-pop and high-end restaurants near the intersection of Hale and Main Streets.

WSL provides Chicago suburbs limo service to a number of Wheaton residents. Our professional chauffeurs love to pass by the Danada Forest Preserve and the Illinois Prairie Path that runs through town on the way to pick up passengers.

Wheaton is a quick trip from other towns in the Western suburbs like Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn and Carol Stream.  In addition to exploring its restaurants and shops, check out this list of fun things to do in Wheaton:

• Cantigny Park – The former estates of Robert R. McCormick, the original owner of the Chicago Tribune, is now a popular park that hosts two museums and a championship 18-hole public golf course on its campus.
• Cosley Zoo – This family-friendly zoo is built on the site of a 5-acre historic train station and is open year-round. It hosts about 200 farm animals and native Illinois wildlife that represent more than 70 species.
• Wheaton French Market – Starting in April, on Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm, the French-styled open-air market features local vendors offering produce, bread, cheese, meat, flowers, artwork, jewelry and clothing.
• Blackwell Forest Preserve – Enjoy the outdoors during every season on the trails at this well-maintained forest preserve. Walk, jog, bike, cross-country ski or even ride horseback. Fishing is a popular activity as well. The combined Silver Lake, White Pine Pons and Sand Pond are home to bluegill, catfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, rainbow trout and walleye.
• Billy Graham Center Museum – Wheaton College – The center houses a library, museum and the archives of the American Evangelical revivalists. Its namesake is the famous Southern Baptist preacher who became well-known across the globe in the 1940s.
• Keep an eye on the progress of the restoration project at the Wheaton Grand Theater. The goal is to transform the former movie house – that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – into a performing arts venue.

The Benefits of Actually Using the Best Travel Apps

Posted On: 01/20/2020

How many times have you read a “top 10 best apps you absolutely must use” list with the goal of upping your game, downloaded a couple of the recommendations, then never put them to use? Good intentions only yield positive results if you take action!

For example, we recently recommended 13 of the best travel apps. It’s a nice mix of apps to take the hassle out of traveling, whether you’re staying local or jetting across the country or around the globe.

Here are a few good reasons to take another look at that list, plus a few more suggestions for apps that will have you thinking about what your next destination will be.

Know Where You’re Going

Use your smartphone to guide you when driving or just walking around. Apps such as Google Maps and Waze will give you a sense of how long it takes to get from point to point, traffic conditions and alternate route suggestions.

Keep Travel Documents Organized

Paper versions of travel documents can easily get damaged or lost when you’re on the road. Make electronic copies of important items such as your passport, itineraries, loyalty cards for hotels and rental car companies and store them all in apps such as Trip Case, Zapya, Mobile Passport and TripIt.

Get The Best Prices

Use apps to find the best deals on hotels (Trivago), flights (Matrix Flights), gas (Gas Buddy) and even trains and buses (Wanderu). 

Find Fun Things To Do

When your itinerary has some free time, check out these apps to find some fun things to do (TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet) or even find deals on airport lounge admissions (Lounge Buddy).

Simplified Transportation

Whether you’re headed to Midway airport, or need a ride to Chicago, make sure to have the WSL ride-booking app installed on your phone to book reliable, safe private transportation.

Download Away

The right apps can make your trip smoother from beginning to end. Take some time to check out the recommendations for both Android and iPhones and download them from the Google Play or Apple App Store, then put them to work for you.

5 Tips to Get More Out of Your Next Concert Experience

Posted On: 01/14/2020

Chicago is a popular tour stop for chart-topping and up-and-coming bands. Whether you’re headed to see The Lumineers at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont in February or are looking forward to rocking out at one of Chicago’s many smaller venues this year, plan ahead to make your concert experience even more memorable.

Transportation

In general, the biggest hassle is getting to concerts, then back home again. But it doesn’t have to be. Reserve a point to point ride with an Illinois limo rental company and you’ll save time, money and enjoy the experience more knowing you have luxury transportation that will arrive on time to pick up your group and safely bring them home again. It’s actually more cost-effective to book a limo than use a ride-sharing company such as Uber or Lyft because there is no surge pricing just because you’re traveling at a popular time. You’ll know in advance how much the service costs, what type of vehicle you’ll ride in and be assured that your professional driver is experienced and knows how to navigate heavy traffic.

Stay Hydrated

Refreshments at concert venues are expensive. Check in advance to see if you can bring in sealed water bottles. You’ll save money and be able to refill from water fountains at the venue to stay hydrated. It’s also a good idea to up your water intake the day of the concert so you’re better prepared for the physical aspects of extended standing and dancing. If you book a limo you can bring a cooler of drinks and snacks for the ride to the venue and leave it in the vehicle for the ride home.

Pack a Portable Charger

Concerts are a great opportunity for selfies, videos and social media posts. Capturing all the memories is sure to drain your phone’s battery. Bring along a portable charger so you can give your battery a boost, so you don’t go dark before the encore!

Review the Venue’s Restrictions

It’s a good idea to head to the venue’s website and read through the list of restrictions about what you cannot bring. Every venue is different. Many have strict rules about the size of bags. You may need to purchase a clear bag created specifically for use at arenas and concert venues to make it simpler for security professionals to screen attendees.

Dress Appropriately

Everyone wants to look great, but don’t sacrifice comfort for fashion, especially when it comes to your feet. Remember, you’ll likely be standing for many hours. High heels look good, but you won’t enjoy the music if blisters pop up or the balls of your feet start to ache.

Most Importantly

The best concert tip of all is to have fun. Simply implement tips 1-5 above to plan ahead and all you need to do is remember your tickets, show up and have a great time.

Business Travel Trends for the New Decade

Posted On: 01/06/2020

Online bookings. Apps. Fees for things that were once free. During the past ten years, a number of innovations have been introduced that have changed the way businesspeople approach travel and transportation.

Now that’s there a new decade underway, what transformations and trends can we expect in the coming years?

More Flexible Business Travel Policies

Companies still want to control spending on travel. At the same time, more are enabling their employees to pick what vendors they use for flights and accommodations as long as total spending remains within predefined levels.

Business Travel As A Strategic Marketing Tool

Technology makes it easier to connect with customers via online video meetings. The physical act of traveling to visit clients for face-to-face interactions can be positioned as a sign of commitment to the relationship.

Technology Advances Ease Planning

We now take online booking capabilities for granted. As 5G networks begin to roll out in 2020, faster speeds and greater data capacity will enable a whole new world of devices for the travel industry. Expect faster security screenings at airports thanks to facial recognition technology and biometrics technologies.

Emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Speaking of advanced technology, AI will learn about travelers’ preferences and make recommendations during the booking process. For example, it may automatically select a compact SUV for private car pickup. Over time, its capabilities may progress to the point where it can proactively make decisions about travel plans during bad weather or other disruptions to itineraries.

Growth of “Bleisure” Travel

Combining business and leisure (bleisure) during trips is a trend that will continue to gain popularity. Why not check off items on your Chicago bucket list if you’re in the Windy City for a convention at McCormick Place?

Rise in Personalized Experiences

Items 1 to 5 mean businesspeople will be able to customize their travel experiences to their personal preferences. Expect more bookings at non-traditional sites (such as private homes), restaurant reservations at hot spots and requests for what were once considered luxury services, such as spa treatments or pet sitting.

Road warriors have much to look forward to has business travel trends for the new decade point to more comfort, easier bookings and services that meet their specific needs.  

How to Overcome the Fear of Flying

Posted On: 01/01/2020

Every day, WSL provides luxury transportation to O’Hare airport and Midway airport. Our clients are either headed out on a business trip or excited about a vacation or visit with family. The one thing many have in common no matter where they are headed is that the thought of getting on an airplane fills them with fear.

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that the fear of flying, or aviophobia, affects 6.5 percent of the population in the United States. That’s about 21 million people! The level of angst can range from slight nervousness to more intense symptoms of anxiety.

While there is no specific cause of aviophobia, the feeling that the flyer has limited control over what happens during the flight is major contributing factor.

If you fall into that group, there are a number of steps you can take to help overcome the fear of flying.

Acknowledge the Fear

The first step in overcoming any phobia is to accept that it is an issue. Rather than avoiding your feelings, accept that flying is not a comfortable activity for you. Then you can work on how to deal with fear in whatever way works best for you, be it personal reflection or help from a mental health professional.

Educate Yourself

You’ll feel better about the flight if you know what’s happening. Read about what causes turbulence and how pilots are trained to respond. Look into the built-in safety features provided by every airline. Cockpit Confidential: Everything You Need to Know About Air Travel is a New York Times bestseller written by a pilot that breaks down the business of flying into layman’s terms.

Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to let seatmates and flight attendants know that flying makes you uncomfortable. That way if the flight gets bumpy, they know the check in with you to see if you need anything or offer reassuring words.  

Focus On The End Result

Think about what you’ll achieve or experience after the flight has landed. What is your purpose for traveling? Looking forward to the meeting, conference, vacation or return home can help take your mind off what might be triggering your fear.

Don’t Fly

You already rely on WSL for your Chicago airport transportation service. If your business or personal trip is within a few hours from home, why not skip the flight and let WSL’s professional chauffeurs drive you instead? You (and your party if you’re traveling with a group) get door-to-door service in a luxury vehicle. Sit back and relax knowing you’re in charge of the trip. Stop whenever you want to stretch your legs or grab a snack.

The world is a big, wonderful place. Learning how to overcome fear of flying breaks down barriers that might be limiting you from advancing your career or visiting amazing places.

Note, these suggestions are not a substitute for professional counseling.

Successes in 2019 Lead to Big Developments Ahead in 2020

Posted On: 12/30/2019

Remembering Those We Lost in 2019

Posted On: 12/23/2019

The team at WSL works together very closely to provide excellent customer service for our clients. Our corporate culture is very much like that of a family that supports each other no matter what. No matter your rank or title, everyone jumps in on tasks big and small to make sure we’re executing to the best of our abilities as individuals and a company.

That’s why 2019 was an especially challenging year for WSL. In March, our dear friend and colleague John Paraoan passed away unexpectedly. A few months later, we were stunned again by the news that Peter Stoeberl was no longer with us.

As we take time during the holiday season to reflect on what we hold most dear, we want to remember the impact these two special men had on everyone at WSL.

John Paraoan (1970-2019)

John joined WSL in 2013 and wore many hats during his tenure at the company, including marketing, sales and dispatch. He was instrumental in leading the rebranding of WSL five years ago, which included the development of a new logo and website. He was also the behind-the-scenes go-to guy who added new technology features to our back-end systems and mobile app that benefit our clients.

John was known for his positive attitude and ability to motivate others. We feel his absence every day.

John leaves behind Jada, his teenage daughter.

Peter Stoeberl (1961-2019)

Pete joined WSL about two years ago, bringing with him more than 20 years of experience in the limousine industry. From the start, Pete established himself as a leader in our dispatch department, where his expertise and professionalism made an immediate positive impression on his coworkers and WSL clients.

We could count on Pete to remain calm under pressure. He also shared his wonderful sense of humor, which helped keep the team loose and focused during difficult shifts.

Pete is survived by his wife, Anna, and three adult sons.

We know in business that change is inevitable, but the loss of both of these men has been painful. They are gone but will never be forgotten.

Why Winter is the Right Time to Book Your Special Event

Posted On: 12/16/2019

Your New Tradition: Holiday Light Shows Tour via Limo

Posted On: 12/09/2019

Top 5 Reason to Book a Limo Now for New Year’s Eve…Before They Are All Taken

Posted On: 12/02/2019

We’re about to enter a new decade. It’s a great time to reflect on accomplishments from the past ten years and look forward with anticipation to what’s ahead. As you make plans for an epoch New Year’s Eve celebration, now is the time to book a limousine to make sure you and your squad have safe, reliable and quality transportation services all night long.

Leave The Driving To Us

Not sure this move is right for you? Check out the top reasons to book a limo for New Year’s Eve:

1. Designated Driver — The only safe number of drinks containing alcohol to have before getting behind the wheel is zero. With a professional chauffeur behind the wheel, everyone in your group can enjoy the party without worrying who is going to drive home. Your safest bet it to leave your car at home. If you book a stretch limo or Sprinter bus, you can even enjoy refreshments while you’re on the road.
2. Focus on Fun — Navigating the Chicagoland area can be difficult, especially at night. Whether you plan on hopping from one hot spot to another, or settling down for the evening in one location, you don’t need to worry about getting lost with a private transportation service.
3. Convenience — Forget about parking hassles, especially if you’re moving between different locations. And, no searching for you ride-sharing vehicle in the crowd, that is if you can even get a driver. With a New Year’s Eve limo, you’ll get curbside drop-offs and pick-ups.
4. No Surge Pricing — When you book with WSL, you know exactly how much your transportation will cost before getting in the limo. Unlike ride-sharing services, WSL doesn’t jack up prices just because demand is high. You pay a flat, fair rate for excellent service.
5. Greet the New Year in Style — You want to look good for the big night. Make sure you ride in style, ready to make an entrance.

The Time To Book Is NOW!

Our stretch limousines, Sprinter buses and sedans are in high demand during the holiday, especially for New Year’s Eve. Call now to make sure you get the vehicle you want for the big night.

Get Creative During Your Ride to the Airport

Posted On: 11/25/2019

In a rut at work? Maybe you just need a change of scenery. A recent study by CWT revealed that “six in ten travelers feel more creative and productive when traveling for business.”

The findings got us thinking at WSL. We’re experts in travel and transportation. While exotic locales are great, opportunities to boost brainpower are everywhere, say even when you’re taking car service from Midway to Chicago.

The average commute time for our clients on the way to or from the airport is 30 minutes to one hour depending on their pickup locations/destinations and traffic. How can you best use your time in WSL luxury vehicles to spark neural activity?

1. Pump up the jams – Make sure the battery is charged on your mobile device and crank your favorite up-tempo playlist. Let the tunes move your mind (and your body, too, if you’re feeling it!).
2. Stare out the window – Or, use the time in your car service to Midway Airport or O’Hare for some rare silent reflection. Let your driver know you prefer quiet and put your phone out of sight.
3. Talk to our professional drivers – Get a different perspective on the problem du jour. Ask our chauffeurs for their opinions about your project. They drive executives from a variety of companies every day and may surprise you with their insights.
4. Try mind mapping – Bring a pad of paper and a pen for the ride. Use your time to sketch out possible solutions to a problem following this visual approach.
5. Schedule a call with your mentor – Arrange a check-in call with a mentor or someone you’ve been meaning to follow-up with from a networking event. Chat about trends in your industry and find out what inspires him or her when it’s time to be creative.

Creating the mood for creativity requires the right setting. Ridesharing companies can get you to the airport but knowing your driver’s groceries recently sat on the bench seat you now occupy can cast a chill on your ingenuity. Trust WSL to provide luxury vehicles driven by professional drivers to make your car service from Midway to Chicago a time of inspiration.

Best Charities in Chicago: Where to Give When the Holiday Spirit Hits

Posted On: 11/20/2019

Let’s face it, the holidays can be hectic. In a short timeframe, we attend a lot of parties, spend too much money on gifts and probably regret the number of sweets that pass our lips. 

Fortunately, it’s also a time that sparks the holiday spirit. We take time to reflect on how fortunate we are to have celebrations to attend, family and friends to spoil and more than enough food to enjoy. In addition to personal observances, the twinkling lights and joyous music put many in the mood to give back to others less fortunate than themselves.

Getting Involved

There are many deserving non-profit organizations seeking donations this time of year. At WSL, the best limo service in Chicago, we like to think local. To help you figure out where to spread your holiday cheer, we created a list of what we think are ten of the best charities in Chicago. We know we likely (and unintentionally!) left out a few worthy organizations that are your favorites. There are so many great groups in the Chicago area that work to make our communities better. 

Best Chicago-Based Charities

We hope this list serves as an inspiration point for you as 2019 comes to a close.

• Alliance for the Great Lakes — The organization works to promote legislations and programs that protect the viability of the great lakes.
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago — This group help shape the lives of children by matching them with qualified adults for one-on-one mentoring relationships.
• CASA Kane County — This group prevents children from falling through the cracks of the heavily populated court and child welfare system by providing each child with the voice of a well-trained volunteer advocate.
• Chicago Legal Clinic — The mission of this organization is to identify legal needs and provide community-based quality legal services and education to the underserved and disadvantaged in the Chicago area.
• Chicago Youth Centers — This group focuses on providing development programs for children ages 3-18 living in Chicago’s divested communities.
• DuPage Pads — This organization is the largest provider of interim and permanent housing in DuPage County, coupled with support services in order to help individuals work toward becoming self-sufficient.
• Gilda’s Club Chicago — This group is works with several area hospitals to provide support for cancer patients and their families.
• Haymarket Center — Since 1975, the organization has helped tens of thousands of individuals overcome challenges with addiction.
• Northern Illinois Food Bank — Every $1 donated provides $8 of nutritious groceries to hungry neighbors in communities in northern Illinois.
• PAWS Chicago — Houses homeless pets in no kill adoption center and works to reduce homeless pet overpopulation by sponsoring spay/neuter clinics.

The Chicago 2020 Bucket List for Locals

Posted On: 11/14/2019

It’s time. How long have you lived in the Chicago area and NOT taken advantage of everything the city has to offer?! Forget all the touristy stuff your relatives want to see when they visit. We’re talking about true Chicago experiences that only locals can really appreciate.

WSL challenges you to work through this Chicago 2020 Bucket List for Locals over the next 14 months (we even gave you two extra months to get it done!). You’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Ultimate Chicago Bucket List

1. Ride the El Brown line around the Loop – Hop on the Brown line, which travels counter-clockwise” and tour the Loop with great views of the Chicago River and the hustle and bustle of the city.
2. Picnic at Jay Pritzker Pavilion – Check out the list of free concerts and movies during the warm summer months, then pack a cooler and blanket to claim your spot on the lawn. Soak up the city vibe and enjoy the entertainment.
3. Tour Graceland Cemetery – Some of Chicago’s most famous and influential residents are buried here, including Mies van der Rohe, George Pullman, Louis Sullivan and Daniel Burnham.
4. Walk the 606 – An abandoned rail line is now a 2.7-mile elevated walking trail from Bucktown to Humboldt Park.
5. Chicago Foods Challenge – How many Chicago foods can you ingest in one day? Create your own list but be sure to include a few of these favorites: Al’s, Pequod’s, Gene & Jude’s, Superdawg and Mr. Beef.
6. Go on a Malört Tour - Malört is the trademarked brand name of a Swedish schnapps owned by Carl Jeppson Company that is based in Chicago. Some people love it. Other find it…different. Put together a bar crawl and discover for yourself where you land on the taste spectrum
7. Visit the Old Tribune Towers - Check out the from around the world that are cemented into the walls. Then head over the Chicago Riverwalk for all kinds of fun and surprises.
8. Get Weird at the International Museum of Surgical Science – Yes, it’s a real thing that you likely had no idea existed. Imagine what goodies you’ll find in the museum store?!
9. Experience the Blues – Snag a table at Rosa’s or Buddy Guy’s to hear up-n-comers and legends sing the blues.
10. Bike the Lakefront – The Chicago lakefront from Ardmore St. to 71^st street is only 18 miles. You can do it! Stop for lunch halfway through.
11. Explore Hyde Park – This south shore neighborhood is teeming with history, shops and restaurants. Plan a day to eat breakfast at Valois, explore the famous bookstores, visit the University of Chicago campus, check out the Chicago skyline from Promontory Point in Burnham Park, and tour the Robie House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
12. Discover Public Art – Did you know there are more than 500 works of public art exhibited throughout the city. Check out this city website to plan a walking tour.

Don’t let Chicago road construction stand between you and completing the list. Let WSL do the driving. We can provide round trip service in Chicago so you can focus on the fun.

Spotlight On: The Lincoln Aviator Crossover

Posted On: 11/11/2019

The fastest growing category in new cars is crossover vehicles (CUVs), according to a study of automotive market trends by Experian. Over a four-year period, CUVs went from about one-third to nearly one-half of new vehicle registrations. WSL understands why. We recently added a new Lincoln Aviator Crossover to our fleet (our second one!) and we love it.

The Lincoln Aviator is a great mid-sized vehicle that is perfect for car service from O’Hare or limo service in Naperville.

Features and Benefits

The vehicle comfortably seats up to five people and has a larger area for luggage or other cargo than a sedan.

The interior screams luxury with plenty of wood trim, a tablet-style touchscreen, and leather encased climate controls.

Advanced suspension capabilities stand up well to the rigors of traveling in the Chicagoland area. The Aviator comes equipped with a number of safety features as part of its standard package, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert.

Our professional chauffeurs love the way the vehicle handles the road, its let’s-go engine power (twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that delivers a total of 400 hp) and the visibility provided by the expansive windshield.

We’ve noticed that our customers enjoy arriving at their destinations in this vehicle. It’s a nice mix of classy, sporty and unexpected that you don’t always find in a CUV, but definitely expect from Lincoln.

Want to try out the Lincoln Aviator for yourself? Request the vehicle when you book your private transportation service with WSL.

Tips for How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping

Posted On: 11/04/2019

Thanksgiving is late in the month this year, falling on Thursday, November 28. That means Black Friday is only three and one-half weeks before Christmas. To get the most out of the best shopping day of the year, you’re going to want to put your game plan together in advance.

Here are some tips to help prepare for Black Friday shopping and cross off all those names on your gift list in one day (and get home before all the Thanksgiving leftovers are gobbled up!).

1. Research, Research, Research: Retailers want your business and work hard to promote their deals, so you’ll want to shop their stores. Visit websites and read round-up news stories about what’s hot this year.
2. Look for Discounted Gift Cards: Check out Raise to buy gift cards for the stores you want to visit at discounted rates. It’s an easy way to save even more. 
3. Buy the Thanksgiving Day Newspaper: Even if you’ve done your online research, it’s useful to review the physical fliers to spot deals you may have missed on your devices. Look for coupons to clip and save.
4. Devise a Timeline for Store Visits: Make sure to note doorbuster specials and when the deals are available. Put together a shopping plan with time limits for how much time to spend at each spot and when to visit specific stores to be eligible for the time-limited deals. Remember, many doorbusters only have a limited supply of items.
5. Create a List and a Budget: The lure of deals can be strong. Make a vow to stick to the items on your shopping list and not to exceed the budget you set aside to purchase gifts.
6. Avoid the Hassle of Driving and Parking: Getting through traffic and carrying bags to the car burns valuable time. Treat yourself by booking a private car service for your Black Friday outing. Shop with a friend or two and split the cost for luxury chauffeur service, then sit back and enjoy.

WSL is your choice for Chicago-land area limousine service. Our professional drivers would love to help you fill the trunk with your finds, then whisk you home and help you bring the bags to the door.

Getting Married? Find the Best Wedding Venues for Photographs

Posted On: 10/28/2019

Long after the “I dos” are said, the wedding cake is gone and the first dance is done, the photos from your wedding will live on forever. You will likely spend quite a bit of time checking out wedding dresses and bridal party outfits from every angle imagining how they will look in the pictures. If you want your wedding day shots to be special, it is also important to consider the best wedding venues for photographs.

As you are touring unique wedding venues in the Chicago suburbs, take a look around an consider whether the sites will serve as a great background for your photos with this handy checklist:

1. Availability of Natural Light

Photographers love light and airy spaces because they don’t have to use a lot of flashes and angled lights to try to backfill dark spaces. Watch out for too many windows that can challenge your photographer to avoid reflections or bounced flashes.

2. Light Colored Ceilings

Again, this is about how photographers use light to capture the best photos. Light colored or white ceilings enable the photographer to bounce the flash off the ceiling of the room or the tent for a flattering exposure. Dark ceilings absorb the light.

3. Uplighting

See if the venue provides colored lighting pointing up the walls. The tones will create dimension in the background of photos, especially in the evening.

4. Picturesque Views

In the Chicago suburbs, look for beautiful park-like settings or interesting architectural backgrounds. Remember weather can ruin the best laid plans, so make sure your indoor setting photographs just as well as the outdoor setting.

5. Accessibility

Ask the venue manager how much time you have to take photos and where the bridal party is allowed to venture. Make sure there are no surprises on your wedding day.

6. Wedding Transportation

For your wedding transportation, decide whether a black or a white limo will look best as a backdrop in your photos. WSL loves working with bridal parties on special requests for photo-friendly additions such as red carpets and champagne. Be sure to talk to our special events coordinator.

If in doubt, contact your photographer and ask for tips and trips he or she recommends to pick a great venue that will shine in the photos you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Spotlight on Elgin

Posted On: 10/21/2019

There are so many fun things to do in Elgin. The town on the Fox River is about 38 miles west of Chicago and bills itself as “The City in the Suburbs,” because if its rich array of cultural, entertainment and recreation options.

Did you know Elgin was once known as the butter capital of the world? It has since moved on to other industries, but historic architecture and landmarks from the Victorian era still dot its neighborhoods.

WSL provides Chicago suburbs limo service to a number of Elgin residents. Our professional chauffeurs love to pass by the Poplar Creek Preserve and Spring Creek Preserve that border the town and drive tree-lined streets on the way to pick up passengers.

Recommendations

We recommend checking out this list of things to do in Elgin:

Downtown Elgin – Break away from name brands and discover lots of new places to eat, drink and shop. Get upscale “pub grub,” signature cocktails and more than 70 beers at the Elgin Public House. Tasty dogs, beefs, burgers and chicken are ready to go “hot & fast” at Beef Villa. Find a bit of the Big Easy at the Grumpy Goat Tavern located at the Highland of Elgin Golf Course. Retro-a-go-go! is a fun place to find unique, kitschy gifts. Stop into Elgin Knit Works, a specialty yarn store with a vintage urban feel for supplies and classes.

Lords Park – The Lord family established this 108-acre park in 1893 and presented it to the city of Elgin to use as a city park. It is now how to the Elgin Public Museum, The Lords Park Zoo, the Pavilion and the Lords Park Aquatic Center. During warm weather, the park is a popular spot for picnics, basketball, tennis and sand volleyball.

Grand Victoria Casino Elgin – This riverboat venue on the Fox River offers something for everyone including gaming, dining and entertainment. If you have a big appetite, visit the Indulge Show Kitchen Buffet that featured six micro-restaurants in one setting.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra – Subscribe to the entire season’s series of performances or get tickets for the concerts that interest you most. The orchestra is led by Andrew Grams, an accomplished violinist who joined the Elgin Symphony Orchestra in 2013 after performing and training with prestigious organizations throughout the country. He named Conductor of the Year by the Illinois Council of Orchestras in March 2015.

Ghost Hunt – Explore a “haunted” cemetery in Elgin in search of paranormal energies during a three-hour walking tour. Learn about local legends from a local expert. Use a personal EMF meter to track the presence of electromagnetic energies.

Get a group of friends together and book suburban SUV service with WSL to make an outing out of your excursion to Elgin. You have all the fun; we do all the driving.

5 Tips for Safer Business Travel

Posted On: 10/14/2019

It’s easy for road warriors to get used to certain routines. When you travel frequently for business, one trip out of town can seem just like every other, until it isn’t. Emergencies, accidents, cancellations and let’s face it, plain bad luck, can happen in the blink of an eye.

That’s why it is important to prepare in advance for safer travel so when bumps in the road appear, you’re ready.

In addition to providing the best limo service to O’Hare, WSL has learned a lot of tips and tricks from our business travelers over the years. Here’s a few of our favorite pieces of advice to help you implement a travel safety plan in advance of your next trip.

Share Your Itinerary

This seems like a simple step, but when you travel frequently it is easy to forget to send your itinerary to a loved one or friend. In case of emergency, it is critical that someone knows your flight plans, hotel accommodations and who you are visiting, every trip.

Pre-book Your Private Car Pickup

It is tempting to assume you can just jump in a taxi or summon a ride share service when you arrive at your destination or upon your return to your home airport. Factors such as weather, conventions and construction can easily mess with availability and leave your stranded. Make sure your transportation needs are covered and reserve private car service in advance.

Purchase Airline Ticket Insurance

When your ticket is non-refundable, spending a few extra dollars for ticket insurance makes sense. It protects you against cancellations, airline changes and lost or damaged baggage.

Carry a Hard Copy of Emergency Contact Info

Sometimes old school is better than digital. If you are injured and unable to communicate, emergency contact info stored in your phone is no good to emergency responders. Prepare a business card size print-out pertinent information including your name, blood type, medication allergies and emergency contacts. Laminate the paper and place it in your wallet near your driver’s license for easy discovery.

Prepare and Restock a Travel Kit

You likely already have a toiletries bag at the ready. Add a few items such as pain medication, bandages, portable phone charger, granola bars, a flashlight and a permanent marker for use in an emergency. Make sure to replenish batteries and items as needed. Your WSL driver may be able to help from his or her stock of limousine amenities if you realize you have forgotten something on the way to the airport.

WSL realizes that your airport limo service reservation may change as plans are altered or an emergency arises. That’s why we don’t charge credit cards until the day after service is provided. Just one more reason WSL is the best limo service to O’Hare.

What You Need to Know About Construction at O’Hare Airport

Posted On: 10/07/2019

Every road warrior knows one of the biggest benefits of booking car service to and from O’Hare Airport is leaving the navigation of the never-ending construction in the area to the professional chauffeurs. What might seem like a hassle right now is actually a strategic long-term plan known as “O’Hare 21” that will improve operations at the airport and the surrounding roadways.

O’Hare 21 Project Details

O’Hare 21 includes three key projects designed to improve the passenger experience:

1. Expansion and modernization of Terminal 5

Groundbreaking for the expansion of Terminal 5 took place in March 2019 and the travelers can expect to see the first completed features in 2021. Plans include adding 25% more gate capacity by increasing the total building area by about 350,000 square feet. The terminal will be able to handle both domestic and international flights. Expect to see 15 new concession brands, expanded security screening checkpoints, consolidated customs processing and a new state-of-the-art baggage handling system.

For WSL, which provides airport limousine service, we’re excited to see that multiple roadway enhancements are on the list of improvements, including more lanes to alleviate traffic flow for drop offs and pickups.

2. Modernization of the Airport Transit System (ATS)

The current ATS is about 25 years old. Modernization efforts include larger cars that will double the capacity of the system to more quickly move passengers throughout the airport. The new system is scheduled for completion in the next few months.

3. New Global Terminal

Further into the future, Terminal 2 will be replaced by a new terminal that breaks ground in 2023 with a scheduled completion data of December 2028. During construction, new satellite concourses will house enough gate capacity to accommodate current Terminal 2 traffic.

Other projects included in the scope of O’Hare 21 include runway extensions, expansion of Terminal 3, a central deicing pad, and on-airport hotel developments.

Transportation Services to O’Hare Airport

WSL professional chauffeurs provide car service to O’Hare Airport every day and have a front row seat to all the developments. They are up-to-speed on lane closures and communicated expected delays to the dispatch team so pickup times can be adjusted if needed. We know you rely on WSL for reliable private car service in Chicago. Making sure you we know what is going on at O’Hare and doing everything we can to get you to the airport on time is something we take very seriously.

Halloween Season is Here, Plan Ahead for Ultimate Scares

Posted On: 10/01/2019

Sure signs that Halloween is on the way are popping up everywhere. The weather is just starting to turn crisp in the evenings. Store shelves are overflowing with tempting treats packaged in orange and black. Jack-o-lanterns are glowing from the front porches of houses.

Get in the holiday spirit and make plans now to visit some great haunted houses in Illinois. We’ve done the work for you. Check out this list of scary dwellings that are sure to give you goosebumps and make you scream.

Best Haunted Houses in the Illinois Suburbs

Hopper Haunted House – A quick jaunt up I-90 to Rockford and according to their website, “you will enter a world where life and death are meaningless, fear like you have never felt before.” Fun, right?! One online reviewer wrote, “super fun and super jumpy! You could really tell the people working loved what they did!”

Dungeon of Doom Haunted House – This fright filled dungeon, located in the old Briquette Factory in Zion, has been around for more than 20 years and consistently get 5-star ratings. Purchase the Ultimate VIP ticket to skip the general admission line and guarantee the Buried Dead or Alive experience.

Massacre Haunted House – More than 20,000 square feet of sheer nightmares awaits you in Morton Grove. The house is a labyrinth of more than 60 rooms where ghosts and monsters hide, ready to pounce. Do you have what it takes to survive?

Evil Intentions – Did someone say casket factory? That’s right, prepare to be terrorized in this multi-level paranormal hot spot that was previously the Elgin Casket Factory. “This once proud building has been witness to a murder, grisly discoveries, cult activities, and unexplained occurrences, and a dark legacy has emerged from its sordid history,” according to the attraction’s website.

Riding in Luxury

Visiting haunted houses in Illinois may be more than your nerves can handle. Count on WSL for professional car service that gets you to and from the safety of your home with point to point transport.

Employee Profile: Michelle Atchue

Posted On: 09/23/2019

Wife, mother, college student, kombucha tea brewer, valued WSL employee.

Michelle Atchue knows a thing or two about balance.

Besides her dual roles at WSL booking limo reservations and dispatching drivers, the busy mom of two leads an active life full of homework (hers’ and the kids’), exercise, hobbies and managing a house with her husband.

Fortunately, WSL is a great place to work for people who need a flexible schedule.

“WSL has always been very accommodating to my needs as a mother if I need time off or time adjusted,” said Michelle. “They are always willing to work with me.”

Michelle just celebrated her sixth anniversary with WSL. She started in reservations, then over time added dispatch responsibilities to her position. Now she spends about three-quarters of her time working with the professional chauffeurs to make sure they are where they need to be and that customers are cared for well.

“We have a lot of great employees at WSL and Michelle is definitely one of our shining stars,” said Scott Simkus, VP of operations. “She works hard and is always willing to pitch in wherever we need her.”

Michelle feels the same about WSL. She says one of the best things about working for the private transportation company is the people.

“Everyone is very close; when I go to work, it feels like I’m joining my second family,” she said.

Family supports family, right? Maybe not when it comes to sharing Michelle’s passion for her hobby: brewing kombucha tea.

As part of her healthy lifestyle, Michelle drinks kombucha tea, which is rich in probiotics for better digestion. The fermented beverage begins with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) that is combined with loose tea, water and sugar, then put through two fermentation steps.

Some describe the flavor profile as similar to sparkling apple cider with a pronounced sour taste. Michelle’s latest brew was peach-blueberry-lemon, but her favorite is probably acai lavender.

Michelle says her co-workers are supportive of her hobby, but not necessarily eager to share in the bounty she brings to the limo transportation company.

“Most will take a taste, but others just say, ‘no thank you!’” Michelle says with a laugh. “I totally understand, it’s an acquired taste.”

Michelle is also on track to finish her business administration degree in May by taking online college courses. Somehow, she fits classes and homework into her busy schedule.

She also enjoys seeing how the concepts she’s learning in school come to life at WSL and was inspired to research the private transportation industry for papers she has written.

In the midst of her busy life, Michelle continues to thrive at WSL and recommends the company as a great place to work for others who want a great professional atmosphere, supportive co-workers and a flexible schedule.

Guide to an Impromptu Visit to the Riverwalk in Chicago

Posted On: 09/16/2019

This past spring revealed the initial stretch of the newly redesigned Chicago Riverwalk east of Michigan Avenue. The new section joins the western part of the Riverwalk’s western section which opened in 2015 and 2016.

If you’re visiting Chicago, make sure to pop over to the Riverwalk which winds its way along the Chicago River along Wacker Drive. Even if you only take in a portion of the 3.4-mile trail after a night at the theater, a business dinner or date night. If you’re transportation into the city is a Chicago limousine service, just let your driver know your pickup spot has changed.

Here’s a few fun (and a few meaningful) stops to check out during your visit:

Art on theMART 

​The largest video-projection art installation in the world, is probably the Riverwalk’s most famous site. Video art is visible on the river-facing façade of the Merchandise Mart, Wednesdays through Sundays, from March through December, 7:15 — 9:15 p.m.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza

Descend the stairs at the corner of State and Wacker and you’ll discover the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza. The solemn site features a black granite slab bearing the names of all the Illinois servicepeople who lost their lives in Vietnam. Take a moment to sit by the fountain and contemplate their sacrifices.

McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

On a lighter note, the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum celebrates the role of the Chicago River in the city’s history. Climb to the top of the Bridgehouse where you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view of the city and the river.

Fun with Darts

Looking for some unconventional fun? Head over to the Flight Club is a great place to try out your dart-throwing skills. A special area called an oche (rhymes with hockey) holds up to 20 people and features dart-tracking technology that provides instant scores. Plus, you can relive every toss with instant replay. Servers are happy to deliver food and “bespoke cocktails” while you play. Make sure you book a reservation to secure an oche.

Cocktails

Need a place to relax and have a drink? Head over to The Kitchen at 316 N. Clark, located in an old industrial space right on the Chicago River. If it is warm enough, ask for seating on the patio and watch boats on the river while sipping seasonal cocktails. If it too cold for outdoor seating, giant windows overlook the river from the bar and restaurant.

On the River

To experience the Chicago River up close and personal, hop on the Chicago Water Taxi that travels from Michigan Avenue to the Ogilvie Train Station. Or get a little wet while propelling yourself down the river as part of a Chicago River Kayak Tour.

The best way to get and from Chicago is with a private car service. WSL professional chauffeurs have lots of experience navigating the busy streets of downtown Chicago. After an impromptu visit to the Chicago Riverwalk, sit back and relax during a comfortable ride home.

Thoughts on the Safety of Ridesharing Services

Posted On: 09/12/2019

A client recently shared a story about an experience she had in an Uber on a trip home from O’Hare airport that got us thinking about the safety of services from ridesharing companies. Let’s set aside the scary stories in the news about horrific incidents related to Uber and Lyft. While those cases should give us all pause, we want to look at the everyday safety aspects of cheap car service.

Our client lives fairly close to O’Hare. At the end of a great family vacation, her husband summoned an Uber and her crew of four jumped into a cramped Toyota Corolla holding carry-ons in their laps because the trunk was filled with their suitcases.

Their young driver immediately jumped into a story about his recent travels to Europe and the Mideast. He shared that he was surprised at how restrictive drug and alcohol restriction are in some countries he visited and how glad he was that he wasn’t “holding any weed” as he entered Jordan.

The driver was also playing music at a loud volume that contained lots of profane language. When our client asked him to change the music, he switched to a different song with equally profane lyrics. She challenged him on it, and he replied, “oh, I thought you just didn’t like [name of artist].”

Major Red Flags

Here are the safety red flags that jump out from her story that would never surface with a limo service:

1. Vehicle safety: After the initial approval of a new driver and his/her vehicle, ride share services do not require monitoring of maintenance or vehicle condition unless they get complaints from riders.   

At WSL, all vehicles in the fleet are monitored on an ongoing basis. Plus, we require full vehicles inspections two times per year. When making a reservation, we match the type of vehicle to the number of people in the party, luggage and rider preference.

2. Background checks: The driver openly shared that he uses drugs and it appeared he was about 21 years old. Our client had immediate concerns that he was high while driving her family. Her mind raced to other possibilities. Did he have a gun in the car? Had he been drinking?

WSL does comprehensive background checks on all of our professional chauffeurs and drivers must be at least 25 years old. We know every driver very well, speak to them every day, monitor their performance and ask for client feedback on every ride. If there is a problem, we take care of it immediately or dismiss the driver.

3. Customer service: The key to providing quality transportation services is putting the needs of the client first. This driver treated his clients as if they were his buddies. He spent a lot of time fiddling with the music which means he wasn’t paying attention to the road.

WSL employs professional drivers, not DJs. Our clients are guests in our luxury vehicles, and we treat them with respect. You can’t always expect the same from cheap car services.

For our client, the morale of the story was to make sure she makes reservations with WSL for personal travel to and from O’Hare airport, in addition to business travel. She did not feel safe in the Uber and does not want to put her family’s well-being at risk again.

WSL Recommendations for Hotels Near O’Hare Airport

Posted On: 09/09/2019

WSL provides limo rides to O’Hare every day of the week. Our professional drivers keep tabs on developments near the airport and get lots of feedback from clients about what’s good in the area (and what’s not!).

Whether you’re need to book a hotel near the airport because you have an early morning flight, want to take advantage of the entertainment and shopping options in Rosemont, or need to find a place for a group to stay, here are WSL recommendations for hotels near O'Hare Airport.

1. Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport – You can’t beat the convenience of the Hilton Chicago O’Hare’s location smack dab in center if the airport. But proximity to your gate isn’t the only advantage. This Hilton features a variety of shops and a barber shop on the main floor as well as three top notch restaurants, a sports bar and in-room service for the weary.
2. Aloft Chicago O’Hare – This contemporary beauty is only two miles from O’Hare and across the street from discount shopping at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago. Mix and mingle at the M W XYZ bar or catch an acoustic performance by a local artist in the Re:mix lounge. Their website promises urban loft-style rooms featuring ultra-comfortable bedding, rainfall showerheads and 42” LCD TV. Plus, you earn Marriott reward points.
3. Lowe’s Chicago O’Hare – This recently refurbished hotel is only five minutes away from O’Hare. The fresh new design is inspired by everything that makes Chicago unique: industry, parks and art. Looks for elements of the city’s iconic architecture including Cloud Gate (aka, the Bean).
4. The Rose Hotel Chicago O’Hare – This new kid on the block is an upscale Hilton property that offers upscale rooms and amenities, including free shuttle service within three miles of the facility. Explore all the unique restaurants, shopping, indoor sky diving, concerts and sporting events in the area, then return for a restful night nestled in one of the most comfortable beds you’ve ever experienced.
5. SpringHill Suites Chicago O’Hare – This hotel is a great option for families who will enjoy spreading out in the suites, plus rates are a bit more reasonable. Complimentary, hot breakfast is included in the room rate. Take a dip in the indoor pool and burn off some calories in the fitness center. The venue is noted for outstanding service on many travel sites.

Make sure to book private car service with WSL for safe, courteous transportation for everyone in your party to and from these outstanding O’Hare area hotels.

ROI Check: Book a Limo or Drive Yourself?

Posted On: 09/02/2019

Companies are always looking for ways to reduce costs. One time-worn strategy is to ask employees to find ways to lower business travel expenses. Some road warriors may be tempted to drive themselves to the airport instead of booking Chicago airport limo services.

Here’s why that solution is short sighted. Just looking at the costs associated with driving a personal versus using a corporate car service doesn’t consider all the factors that impact the return on investment (ROI) for the trip.

At WSL, the typical cost for a chauffeured limo to O’Hare airport that takes about one hour is around $75. The ride includes transport in a clean, spacious and comfortable limo, SUV or sedan directly to the departures section of the airport.

During the ride, passengers can take advantage of the time in a professional car service to work on their laptops, make phone calls or enjoy rare moments of quiet thinking time. In comparison to an hourly breakdown of what typical business executives and managers earn per hour, uninterrupted time to work in the car more than pays for itself.

Driving a personal car to the airport means navigating traffic (pretty gnarly around O’Hare these days!), finding parking, unloading luggage and schlepping it on and off a shuttle bus crammed in with other travelers just to get to the airport.

Business executives who travel frequently may also enjoy getting to one or two professional drivers who are assigned to them for all trips. Seeing a trusted, familiar face is a nice perk.

Plus, working with WSL means riders get access to a top-notch reservation service with the confidence that drivers are available as needed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

What about ride sharing services? Unlike WSL, those services changes prices depending on demand. Coming home from an exhausting business trip during a winter snowstorm? Expect to pay surge prices. WSL does not change its fee structure just because there is more demand for the service.

WSL drivers are also trained professionals who receive ongoing training and take pride in their vehicles. Working with WSL is their full-time profession, not a side gig. Plus, they understand when it is OK to make conversation or play music, and when to stay silent.

Based on the scenarios presented above, it is clear that the best ROI is to book a Chicago airport limo services for business travel.

Top 7 Myths About Limo Transportation

Posted On: 08/26/2019

The allure of booking limo transportation for special occasions like weddings and proms is a key plot point in many great movies. Who can forget Richard Gere popping out of a limo’s moon roof to woo Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman? Unfortunately, that type of imagery leads many people to have misconceptions about the private transportation industry, similar to mistaken beliefs about Chicago myths.

WSL has provided limo transportation in the Chicago area for more than 50 years. It’s time for us to set the record straight about some common myths.

1. All We Do Is Weddings & Private Events.

Yes, we love driving our customers on their special days and to private event. Booking limo service is also great for trips to the airport, concerts, sporting events, date nights, birthday parties, weekend getaways…the list goes on and on.

2. Limos Are All Booked On Holidays.

Customers think that because airports are busy on holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas that WSL will not have cars available. In reality, holidays are actually our slowest days of the year. Give us a call and we can make airport travel easy and comfortable!

3. A Limo Company Only Offers Stretch Limos.

When people hear the word “limo” in our name, they think we only have stretch limousines. In fact, we have a whole fleet of vehicles available to meet your needs. In addition to limos, select from sedans, SUVs, party buses and executive coaches.

4. Limo Service Is Too Expensive.

Some people think private transportation companies are only for the rich and the famous, so they choose private ride services like Uber instead.  Because of surge pricing, there are many times with Uber and Lyft are MORE EXPENSIVE. Even when pricing is comparable, private-ride services do not employ trained, professional drivers. WSL only employs full-time chauffeurs who have completed drug testing, passed a criminal background check and receive ongoing training to provide the best service.

5. Limousines Cannot Handle Highways.

All the vehicles in WSL’s fleet – including our stretch limos – are designed for travel on highways, residential roads, side streets and airport motorways. Our professional drivers are trained to safely drive vehicles of all sizes.

6. Limousines Only Work for Short Distances.

This is a common misconception due to the size of stretch limos and shuttle mans. However, the entire WSL fleet is built with durability in mind for comfortable travel anywhere, anyplace and anytime – including out of state!

7. It Is Hard to Find a Reputable Limo Company

WSL is focused on providing the best possible service to all of our customers. The positive results are evident in the feedback and reviews clients leave on our Facebook page, Google and Yelp. WSL also first earned BBB accreditation in 1985 and has since received the organization’s “Complaint Free” award every year and maintain an A+ BBB Rating.

Weekend Getaway: Experience the Beauty of Starved Rock

Posted On: 08/19/2019

Looking for a weekend getaway that doesn’t require spending too much time on the road? Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, IL should be on your itinerary. This beautiful park is less than 100 miles (about two hours) southwest of the Chicago area and yet provides a major change of view with access to 18 sandstone canyons, waterfalls, 15 miles of hiking trails and tree-covered bluffs.

As summer begins to transition to fall, you can see and feel the changes. A quick trip to Starved Rock is the perfect way to relax and clear your mind while enjoying the changing color of the trees. As the Chicago area’s best limo service, we get lots of recommendations from our customers about what to do and see around Starved Rock.

The best place to start is the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center that is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check out the interactive displays, stock up on snacks and souvenirs and pick-up hiking maps.

Hiking trails include the .3-mile walk to Starved Rock, and .8-mile walk to Eagle Cliff and a 4-mile trail to spectacular views of Council Overhand, Ottawa and Kaskaskia canyons. Waterfalls are visible in 14 of the 18 canyons. The most popular waterfalls are round in St. Louis, French, Wildcat, Tonty, Ottawa and Kaskaskia canyons. In winter, many waterfalls are transformed into amazing ice sculptures!

You can also explore the park from the Illinois River, Fox River or Vermillion River from canoes and kayaks. The best spots to enter the river is from the Lone Point Shelter in the east end of the park, or at the Starved Rock boat ramp on the west end.

Following the Beautiful Scenic Hike

After exploring nature, we recommend adding some special treats to your Starved Rock itinerary. Check out Two Girls and a Cupcake just outside the part in the Country Edge-Started Rock Gateway Mall in Utica. The shop features 15 to 25 flavors of cupcakes daily. You’re sure to find something to delight everyone in your party.

Or visit the tasting room at August Hill Winery at 106 Mill Street in Utica for a sampling wines made from the grapes grown at the winery.

Then head back to the park for an overnight stay at the Starved Rock Lodge where you can choose from rustic hotel rooms in the lodge or one of the log cabins in the woods. All guests have access to the indoor pool, hot tub and sauna. You can also sign up for trolley tours and guided hikes.

Add a stop in nearby historic Ottawa to add to the fun. It’s the site where Lincoln first debated Douglas in 1858. You can also check out the Tangled Roots Brewing Company, which says it is home to “Illinois’ best farm to foam beer.” Or get a caffeine boost at Jeremiah Joe Coffee featuring coffee roasted in-house. If a sugar fix is more your style, visit Tone’s Cones for premium soft serve in a cone or sundae.

What Type of WSL Limousine is Best for You?

Posted On: 08/12/2019

When booking a Chicago limo rental, how do you know what type of luxury WSL vehicle is best for your needs? Whether you need a ride to the airport, are traveling with a group of friends for a night out, need private car service for a business trip, or are booking professional chauffeur service for a special event, we have a limousine to meet your needs for limo service from the Chicago suburbs.

Luxury Sedans

When your party only includes one or two people, a luxury sedan is a good choice. WSL maintains Cadillac XTS, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln Continentals and Lincoln Town Cars in our fleet. These vehicles are great for a ride to the airport, transportation for visiting executives or a special date night. Some people even book our luxury sedans for business trips to downstate Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin instead of flying or driving themselves. It’s a cost-effective alternative that enables the passenger to focus on getting work done, catch up on sleep, read a book or watch a video.

SUVs

What to roll up to your destination in style? WSL has Cadillac Escalades and Lincoln Navigators in our fleet. These vehicles are a popular choice for small groups headed to the airport, executive transportation between the airport, hotels and meeting destinations as well as special events such as proms and family members of brides and grooms. Note, SUVs do require a bit of a step up to get into the seating area. Some people prefer sedans or limos because they are closer to the ground and can be easier to get in and out of.

Stretch Limousines

Special occasions call for stretch limos. WSL offers the Lincoln MKT Stretch or the Lincoln Town Car Stretch. Both vehicles are great choices when you want Chicago limo rental. Wedding parties love to get around in stretch limos. These classic luxury vehicles are also popular for group transport to concerts, sporting events, high school dances and other occasions when you want to ride in comfort, listen to some tunes and possibly enjoy some refreshments stored in the built-in bar.

Executive and Party Buses

Check out WSL’s new Mercedes-Benz Executive Passenger Shuttle. The Sprinter Bus is a high-end Chicago limo bus with luxurious high-back captain’s chair seating for up to 14 people. Every row features blue backlit dual USB ports for easily accessible access to power to charge laptops, tablets and mobile devices on the road. Every seat has its own individual LED reading light and passenger-controlled heating/cooling options. This vehicle is a popular choice for group executive travel, large group transport to the airport, concerts and game days. Or book a traditional party bus with comfortable bench seating for large groups.

Whatever limo you select, you can’t go wrong with WSL. When you book your Chicago limo rental with WSL, you can count on vehicles to well-maintained and driven by professional chauffeurs who are focused on safety and service.

Up for the Challenge? 5 Escape Room Locations that Put Your Skills to the Test

Posted On: 08/05/2019

The clock is ticking. You’re locked in a room and debriefed on a mission. Will you find all the hidden clues? Can you crack the codes before time runs out?  Do you have what it takes to solve the final puzzle and find the way out?

That’s the thrill of entering an escape room with a group of friends where only one outcome is guaranteed: you’ll have a great time.

The popularity of escape rooms has surged in recent years, and for good reasons. The live-action game experience is a fun group activity that stretches your mind, sparks your adrenaline and sets the stage for glorious victory or epic defeat.

There are a number of imaginative escape room locations in the western suburbs that are sure to put your skills to the test. Here are a few tips to consider before booking your adventure:

1. Group Size – Escape rooms are created to hold a variety of size groups. Put together a group of friends and reserve a room just for your party. Or, sign-up for the room of your choice and work in conjunction with people you don’t know. Trust us, you’ll become fast friends.
2. Skill Level – Escape room locations generally provide difficulty ratings and escape rates for each room. Pick a level that matches the aptitude and experience of your group.
3. Theme – History. Magic. Aliens. Space travel. You name it, there’s likely an escape room with a theme that’s sure to tickle your fancy. Explore your options and pick a challenge that your group will love.
4. Discounts – Before booking the escape room, check to see if they offer a discount on Groupon. You’ll need to do a bit of advance planning because Groupon purchases for escape rooms typically take 24 hours to become valid.
5. Transportation – The escape room adventure is just one part of a fun evening out. Check out the restaurants and bars near the location and book suburban car service so everyone can enjoy the evening without worrying about who is going to drive home.

Our Top 5 Escape Rooms

Challenge Accepted, Bloomingdale

Pick from eight rooms that include escaping from granny’s creepy attic, thwarting Jack the Ripper and disarming a bomb in order to save the world form a devastating virus. Celebrate your victory (or mourn your defeat) at Roosters Bar n’ Grill in the middle of Bloomingdale’s historic Old Town.

Escape for Fun, Wheaton

Pick from The Chamber where you’re transported to 500 AD where you must find the key to save Camelot, or Mission Critical where you have been secretly chosen by the FBI to infiltrate an evil doctor’s lab to deactivate a deadly bomb. Then head over to Warren’s Ale House for casual eats, craft beers and an impressive menu of wines and whiskey.

D.O.A. Room Escape, Villa Park

Love Chicago history? This is the place for you. Outsmart notorious “Devil in the White City” killer H.H. Holmes during the 1890 Chicago World’s Fair. Save valuable artifacts while escaping the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Outsmart Al Capone and his mob at the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in 1929. Return to this century at Crazy Pour, an upscale sports bar with giant high-definition TVs viewable from every angle inside and an on the patio.

CluedIn, Glen Ellyn

Are you a Game Master? Use your skills to save the kidnapped mayor. Do you have what it takes to uncover a Double Agent? Break into the office of a spy agency to steal back compromising info but beware the traitor in your group. Then gather at Ellyn’s Tap and Grill, a fun neighborhood bar with a variety of mouth-watering burgers on the menu.

iPanic, St. Charles

Choose from encounters with Bigfoot, aliens, witches or dragons in these state-of-the-art escape rooms. You’re sure to build up an appetite so check out the monthly food and drink specials at Crazy Fox Bar & Grille.

10 Unique Wedding Venues to Check Out in the Chicago Suburbs

Posted On: 08/01/2019

WSL is thrilled to be a part of one of the most important days in peoples’ lives when we provide Chicago wedding limousine services. Every weekend we get to visit some of the most unique wedding venues in the Chicago suburbs. If you are recently engaged (or know someone who is), make sure to check out this list of great nearby places to host a wedding.

1. Company 251, Aurora

This luxury event space was formerly the International Harvester Manufacturing Co. This building dates back to 1908 but has been transformed into a modern space featuring marble flooring, customized handmade lighting, detailed millwork, exposed brick walls, towering windows and 20,000 square feet to hold all your friends and family. What a great backdrop for your wedding photos.

2. Emerson Creek Tearoom, Oswego

Looking to add a bit of country to your wedding? The Emerson Creek Tearoom delivers with a remodeled barn and triple peak event tent that are perfect for the big day. A stone patio with two fire pits overlooks farm fields. It’s a beautiful mix of country charm and modern-day amenities.

3. Warehouse 109, Plainfield

This truly unique space features a gallery of antique motorcycles, a vintage bar and a 1958 Airstream reimagined as a lounge. Work with the venue’s team to design a set-up that brings your party to life in the 4,000 square feet of indoor space and 2,000 square feet of outdoor space.

4. Independence Grove, Libertyville

Get back to nature at this 1,100-acre nature preserve and recreation area that features stunning lake views and vast grasslands. Choose from five wedding spaces on the campus for your ceremony and reception, then select from the award-winning catering menu prepared on-site by a team of chefs.

5. Acquaviva Winery, Maple Park

Acquaviva is a family-owned 40-acre vineyard estate and full-service winery that provides opulent backdrops for weddings in any season. The venue’s culinary and service teams promise special attention to your specific requests. Check out the on-site guest house with six private suites that can be booked for the wedding day.

6. Chicago Botanic Garden, Highland Park

The garden hosts 27 spectacular gardens on 385 acres to provide a serene backdrop for your wedding. Choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the park.

7. Elawa Farm, Lake Forest

The venue is a restored gentleman’s farm and garden maintained through a public-private partnership. Elawa Farm is home to a rare tallgrass savanna that provides protection for many state and federally listed species. The site is a beautiful setting for wedding with up to 200 guests. Both indoor and outdoor areas are available.  

8. The Haight, Elgin

This converted loft/warehouse space intertwines architectural elements from the original 1890s building that housed the horses and carriages for the Elgin Storage & Transfer Company with modern amenities. The second floor boasts 7,000 square feet to seat up to 300 people or 250 people if you want a dance floor.

9. The Standard, Rockford

Head north for a rooftop event space that works for every season with heating or air conditioning available as needed. This rehabbed historic building features a beautiful rooftop conservatory and garden that overlooks downtown Rockford. Guests ascend to the rooftop via an elevator for your ceremony and/or reception, then enjoy farm-to-table cuisine overseen by Executive Chef Paul Sletten.

10. The Mansion in Allerton Park, Monticello

This historic site was donated to the University of Illinois in 1946. The property features 1,500 acres of woodlands and prairies, a reflecting pool, a formal sculpture garden and a mansion that is perfect for hosting stately weddings. On-site lodging facilities are a great option for the wedding parting and out of town guests.

Don’t forget to book transportation for the big day. Check out WSL’s checklist for Chicago wedding limousine service that breaks down the timing and steps to make sure everyone in your wedding party is where they need to be on time and in style.

To get all the details on our various wedding packages – Stretch Limousines, SUVs, Party Bus, etc. – please contact Sheryl, our special events coordinator, at 630-668-9600 x246. Sheryl is available Monday through Thursday, 8:00am to 2:00pm.

Spotlight on St. Charles

Posted On: 07/29/2019

WSL luxury vehicles visit the beautiful streets of St. Charles almost every day to pick up clients for trips to O’Hare, Midway and events or meeting in Chicago. We couldn’t help but notice there are a lot of fun things to do in St. Charles! Here’s a list of our favorites. You’ll want to pay special attention to the free giveaway that’s sure to get you laughing.

Arcada Theatre:

The entertainment venue was built in 1925 by Lester J. Norris. The stage has hosted legendary stars like Judy Garland, Liberace, Kenny Rogers and Martin Short to name a few. Sign-up for their email list to get advance notice of upcoming performances. The theatre also hosts a silent film series, an experience should try at least once.

Baltria Vintage Auto Gallery:

Like vintage cars? Baltria on Main St. in St. Charles is open to the public Mondays through Saturdays from 8:30 am to 5:30 p.m. Check out their inventory of amazing classic cars.

Koi Whisperer Sanctuary & Japanese Garden:

Take a few moments to meditate and experience the beauty of this hidden gem located at 6N779 Il Route 31.

116 Gallery at Mixology Salon Spa:

It’s a spa. It’s an art gallery. Treat yourself to a facial then check out the gallery space featuring new artists.

Flea Market:

Since 1967, the Kane County Flea Market in St. Charles has been the “Best in the Midwest or Anywhere!” Spend an afternoon wandering the stands to find a one-of-a-kind find she’ll treasure forever. The market is open the first weekend of every month, Saturdays noon to 5 p.m. and Sundays 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

County Fair:

For more than 150 years, St. Charles has been home to the Kane County Fair & Festival. It’s a fun mix of food, monster truck shows, bull riding, music, amusement rides and a car show.

Comedy:

St. Charles is home to Zanie’s Comedy Club in the Pheasant Run Resort. The club has a fantastic line-up of comedians scheduled through the end of 2019.

WSL GIVEAWAY

Ready to laugh? Visit WSL’s Facebook page for a chance to win a 4-pack of tickets for a comedy show at Zanie’s Comedy Club. The club hosts comedians on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Flying Out of O’Hare? Find Some Time to Treat Yo’Self

Posted On: 07/22/2019

Recently, in our Chicago Midway car service post, we revealed the ultimate guide to “treating yo’self” when flying out of Midway. Now we turn our attention to O’Hare. The airport hosts a number of restaurants and shops that deserve your attention. The area around the airport has exploded with new dining, shopping and recreational options that will make you want to spend some time in the area before or after your flight.

At O’Hare

WSL provides daily transportation to O’Hare Airport. Here a few of the favorites inside the terminals that our clients recommend.

Publican Tavern:

(Terminal 3, Gate K1). The Publican is known for its lineup of craft beers from local brewers, but we recommend stopping in for breakfast. The signature Publican bacon infused with Burton’s maple syrup is amazing. We also can’t stop thinking about their breakfast potatoes that are light and savory all at the same time.

Bubbles Wine Bar:

(Terminal 3, Gate H4). This location will transport you with its soft lighting, grand piano and sparkling wine menu. It’s a great way to relax before a long flight.

Tocco:

(Terminal 5, Gate M7). Tocco is part of the Terminal 5 refresh. Fans of the former Wicker Park location may book a flight just to enjoy the assortment of Italian favorites including wood-fired pizzas and delectable pastas.

Airline Clubs:

If you fly regularly, we recommend signing up for a lounge membership with your preferred airline. American Airline’s Admiral’s Club in Concourse G and the United Club with locations in Terminals 1 and 2, boast comfy seats, WiFi, snacks, beverages and a reprieve from the masses of people passing through the airport. One-day passes are available if you want to check out the benefits before committing to an annual membership.

Shopping Excursion:

O’Hare really has it all whether you just want to window shop or find some treasures. Every terminal hosts a mix of newsstands, specialty shops and high-end fashion labels. At the Field Museum store (Terminal, Concourse B and Terminal 3, Concourse) you’ll find a variety of hand-crafted gifts and jewelry, books, educational toys and fun Chicago-themed souvenirs. Head over to the MAC store (Terminal 2, Main Hall) to stock up on cosmetics or get a makeup makeover from knowledgeable staff. Then check out the latest in accessories at Coach (Terminal 2, Main Hall), men’ and women’s apparel at Johnston & Murphy (Terminal 1, Concourse B), or a get a great pair of new shades at Oakley (Terminal 1, Concourse B and Terminal 3, Concourse H).

Around O’Hare

Development in the communities surrounding O’Hare has exploded in the past few years. You may want to add some time before or after your trip to soak up some of the fund.

Sports:

The new 6,300-seat Impact Field in Rosemont is home to the Chicago Dogs, a minor league baseball team now in its second season. Do you prefer professional softball? Check out the Chicago Bandits, part of the National Pro Fastpitch League. The team plays at the Parkway Bank Sport Complex, also in Rosemont.

Shopping:

Burberry, Tory Burch, Prada, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5^th, Neiman Marcus Last Call. These are just a few of the more than 130 brands that you’ll find at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, a luxury outlet shopping mall just a five-minute drive from O’Hare.

Gambling:

Want to test your luck? Head over to Rivers Casino in Des Plaines where you’ll find hundreds of slots, more than 50 gaming tables and seven dining options.

Dining:

Spend a little, spend a lot, you’re sure to find what you crave from the list of restaurants around O’Hare. Murray Bros. Caddy Shack features a huge menu of comfort foods and an homage to a certain ‘80s movie. You’ll find Brazilian-style offerings at Fogo de Chao where meat prepared the gaucho way is a special treat. Or maybe you’d like to eat, bowl, listen to live music and play a few arcade games at King’s, a giant entertainment venue that’s sure to have something that appeals to everyone in your group.

Fun Ways to Break Out of Your Rut

Posted On: 07/15/2019

Are your tired of the “same old, same old” when it comes to planning outings with your friends or family? Then it’s time to try something new. Instead of booking a reservation at the usual restaurant or going to a movie, check out some of these unique activities that have popped up recently right in your backyard in Kane and DuPage counties.

Axe Throwing

Axe, meet target. Get ready for an adrenaline rush when you hurl axes with all your might at targets in the safe confines of an axe throwing lane. After a training session that lasts about 10 to 15 minutes, your group will compete against each other in a variety of challenges. Size doesn’t matter. Anyone can be good at axe throwing. It’s all in mastering the right form. Try Splinters Axe Throwing in St. Charles, the largest axe throwing facility in the Midwest, or Axeplostion in Lombard.

Indoor Wall Climbing

Challenge your body to a whole new adventure. Indoor wall climbing facilities have set-ups for people of all ages and abilities, no experience necessary. It’s a great physical and mental workout. Check out Vertical Endeavors in Glendale Heights.

Ninja Warriors

Do you enjoy watching American Ninja Warriors on TV? A number of venues have opened recently where you can put your skills to the test without the fear of falling in water in front of millions. Where else can you tackle obstacles such as rope walls, swinging rings and sloped walls. In Naperville, try Ultimate Ninjas or head over to Windy City Ninjas in Elmhurst.

Get Creative

Looking for an activity that is a little less strenuous? How about painting and drinking? Let your creative side out in an instructor-led session that leads your through all the steps to produce your own masterpiece. Sipping on wine during the fun is encouraged! Bottle & Bottega in Glen Ellyn hosts public and private painting parties. Or, head over to Board & Brush Creative Studio in Downers Grove to for a variety of workshops to make DIY doormats and decorative signs.

To add some extra zing to your outing, book car service with WSL to get you to and from the sites. That way everyone can focus on having fun and no one has to handle driving duties except the professional WSL chauffeurs.

In-Vehicle Amenities: Tell WSL What You Want

Posted On: 07/08/2019

WSL professional drivers work hard to make sure you are happy with the chauffeur service you receive from the moment you are picked up until you are dropped off at your final destination. Our drivers receive ongoing training and professional development and work hard to cater to your needs.

You may have noticed that many WSL professional drivers offer what we affectionately call a “Toolkit of Amenities” for passengers. Typical items include:

• Leather Seating so you can ride in style and comfort.
• Bluetooth Connections if you want to listen to your playlist during the ride.
• Surround Sound System to bring your playlist, podcast or video to life.
• Chargers for both Android and Apple devices so you don’t have to dig through your purse or briefcase during the trip to top off the battery of your mobile phone.
• Tissues to make sure allergy season, dusty road conditions or an especially poignant online video don’t catch you unprepared for a runny nose or a few tears (trust us – it happens!).
• WiFi so you don’t need to eat up your data plan to stay connected to work, home or watch a few videos on the way to the airport.
• Bottled Water to help you stay hydrated before you get on the plane or jump in to a big meeting.
• Moon Roof so you can sit back and enjoy the beautiful night sky.
• Beverage Bar in many of the stretch limos so you can enjoy a cold one with friends during travel
• Fiber Optic Lighting in the stretch limos adds ambiance and a gentle light source to set the mood.

Now it is your turn to tell us what would make your day when you step into a luxury WSL vehicle. Blanket? Snacks? Ear plugs?

Get creative and then pop over to our Facebook page and let us know what you think or email your suggestions to Scott Simkus, WSL’s Vice President of Operations at ssimkus@westsublimo.com.

We can’t wait to hear your ideas!

Weekend Getaway: Lake Geneva is Calling

Posted On: 07/01/2019

At WSL, as you can imagine, we LOVE the western suburbs. Our luxury vehicles visit just about every city in Kane and DuPage counties during a typical week, providing limousine service in Geneva, private car service in St. Charles and executive bus service in Elmhurst to name a few of the towns we visit.

There are so many fun things to do in the area all year long. But sometimes you just need to get away. We highly recommend heading north about an hour and one-half to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The town and surrounding area have activities, restaurants and shops that are sure to please everyone in your group.

Whether you want to connect with nature, play a few rounds of golf, enjoy lake life or treat yourself to some spa services, Lake Geneva has it all.

A Few of Our Favorite Adventures:

Shopping – The sidewalks of downtown Lake Geneva are home to one-of-a-kind stops that are sure to hold something that you won’t find at the mall. Kids of all ages will love Allison Wonderland for its wide selections of toys and games. Ladies love stopping in Jayne to find funky clothing, shoes and accessories. Galerie Matisse boasts an eclectic mix of fine art ranging from traditional to contemporary.

Water Activities – Don’t forget the sunscreen Geneva Lake has four visitor-friendly beaches. You can rent a boat for the day, check out the scenery on the Lake Geneva Cruise Line, charter a fishing expedition with licensed guides or power yourself around the lake in kayaks from Clear Water Outdoor.

Golfing – Lake Geneva is the premier golf destination for the Midwest. Be sure to make reservations well in advance at popular courses like Abbey Springs, Geneva National Resort & Club and Grand Geneva Resort.

Dining – Don’t miss a chance to eat at Popeye’s, serving Lake Geneva with family-friendly fare since 1972 (and not to be confused with the fast food chain). For something a little higher end, visit Hunt Club Steakhouse which is well known for its world-class wine list. Make sure to grab a sweet treat at Constant Cravings featuring gourmet popcorn and confections.

When you’ve explored all there is to see in Geneva, head north and discover new adventures big and small in Lake Geneva.

Flying Out of Midway? Find Some Time to Treat Yo'Self

Posted On: 06/24/2019

One of the luxuries of living in the Chicago area is the flexibility to book flights through both O’Hare and Midway. When your travels take you to the south side, sometimes getting through security is a bit faster. Use the extra time to “treat yo’self” to some of Midway’s finest concessions and shops. Or pop into to one our chauffeur-approved local eateries near Midway before or after your flight.

At Midway

WSL provides daily Chicago Midway car service. We love hearing from clients about what they like about the renovations to the concessions areas. Here are a few favorites you might want to check out for yourself.

Big Shoulders Coffee

(Concourse A, Gate A14). Big Shoulders Coffee is a special treat for coffee lovers. The roaster was recently awarded Food & Wine’s best coffee in Illinois for 2019. The Chicago-based company was founded by Tim Coonan who after a long and distinguished culinary career, turned to his other passion: coffee. You can taste a chef’s attention to detail in every cup.

Windy City Taproom

(Concourse B, GateB11). This restuarant has an appetizer menu that screams for a couple beers to wash it down. Deviled eggs with braised pork belly and picked veggies. Fried pickles with garlic aioli. Korean BBQ wings that are both sweet and fiery. Yum.

DeColores

(Concourse A, Gate A7). A full-service restaurant with all the Mexican favorites offered at its family-owned Pilsen cocina.

iStore

(Concourse A, Food Hall). iStore is an authorized Apple reseller smack dab in the middle of the airport. Pick up those Airpods you’ve meaning to get or a phone charger to replace the one you left at the office.

Ink by Hudson

(Concourse A, Gate A10 and Concourse B, Gate B17). In addition to Hudson newsstands throughout the airport where you can get books and magazines, visit Ink for an eclectic collection of gifts and other out of the ordinary finds.

Yoga Room

(Concourse C). A tranquil space set aside for you to unwind and slip in a few downward dogs before buckling up in that tight middle seat in coach.

Around Midway

WSL professional chauffeurs know the neighborhood around Midway. Here are their recommendations for the best places to eat and drink.

Giordano's, 6314 S Cicero Ave. – Order a deep dish when you land and pick it up on the way home. Your family will thank you.

Orion Restaurant, 5772 S Archer Ave. – This old school bar and grill features delectable eastern European entrees.

Red Barrel, 5216 S. Archer Ave. – Family-friendly ambiance with a big menu full of entrees from many cultures.

Sammy's Kitchen, 5542 W 55th St. – Great for traditional breakfast or check out the lunch specials.

Top View Restaurant, 4715 W 63rd St. – Just a mile away from Midway, this pancake house and traditional restaurant has a nice easy-going environment.

Twisted Shamrock Pub, 6462 S Central Ave. – Unwind with some bags and beers on the outdoor patio.

Valentina Restaurant, 4506 W 63rd St. – Stop in for amazing margaritas and traditional Mexican cuisine.

Protecting Your Data Is A Priority

Posted On: 06/17/2019

It seems like barely a week goes by without another data breach at a well-known company in the headlines. Uber, Marriott and Equifax are just a few of the targets hit hard by hackers. Cybersecurity is no longer just one of the tasks assigned to the IT department. The severity of the threat means every business better have a cybersecurity plan in place to protect their customers’ data.

At WSL, we’ve spent the past three years implementing steps to maximize the protection of our clients’ data, both personal and professional.

First, we no longer process credit card transactions in our Chicago limousines or luxury vehicles. Instead we switched to a service from Green Pay. Now, all important credit card information is stored, encrypted and processed on our secure in-house servers.

Second, our website where many online reservations are book, is secured with ID, password validation and encrypted module authentication.

Third, we back up all data nightly, weekly and monthly to retain critical data. And, because no one can predict when a fire, flood, theft or vandalism will strike, we also back-up data through SafetyNet as part of our disaster recovery plan. SafetyNet uploads critical files to a safe, remote server. If a disruption occurs at our facility, the restoration process can be activated immediately. Within minutes, our staff can resume normal reservation, dispatching, accounting and reporting activities. Between our on-site and remote back-up tools, it is nearly impossible to knock us off track. A few years back, our office was hit by a microburst/EF0 tornado, which lifted part of our roof off the building, but our business didn't miss a beat.

Lastly, as an additional level of protection, to protect our computers internally from hackers and other bad internet actors, WSL is upgrading to a Viper antivirus program. Viper is considered the best protection program for businesses. The update takes place over the coming weeks.

We know you expect professional, safe private transportation when you book with WSL. We hope it also give you peace of mind that we put the same effort into making sure your data is protected as well.

Tips to Get the Most Out of Summerfest

Posted On: 06/10/2019

The world’s largest outdoor music festival is only a quick jump over the “cheddar curtain” up I-94 in Milwaukee. Of course, we’re referring to Summerfest, which runs June 26-30 and July 2-7 this year. Once again, the line-up is a mix of popular country, rap, rock and pop headliners, plus hundreds of well-known and up-and-coming artists at stages throughout the lake shore venue.

Savvy Summerfest goers know a few tricks to get the most out of the festival, which is always fun and definitely crowded.

1. Buy tickets in advance – Save time and buy your tickets in advance via the Summerfest website or Ticketmaster. General admission tickets give you access to everything except the headliners which require separate tickets.
2. Know what you can bring – Summerfest does not allow any kind of backpack or bag larger than 9”x10”x12”. You cannot bring in outside food or drinks, selfie sticks or portable chairs. Here is the full list of Summerfest no-nos.
3. Arrive early – The grounds are less crowded earlier in the day. Make sure to get a wristband so you can leave the fest and explore what else is going on in Milwaukee in the Third Ward or downtown. Make sure to return by about 6 p.m. to avoid the rush arriving for the headline shows. There are not re-entries allowed after 7:00 p.m.
4. Eat the cheese curds – You’re in Wisconsin so eat the cheese curds! You can’t go wrong at Saz’s or Major Goolsby’s.
5. Take the lakefront path – The grounds get crowded and moving from one end of the park to the other can be difficult. The path along the lakefront is a bit longer but typically faster. Plus, you might want to take a break at one of the picnic table along the route.
6. Bring a portable phone charger – Big crowd plus lots of great photo ops means your phone battery will die fast. Bring a portable phone charger to stay juiced.
7. Book private transportation – Parking around Summerfest is a nightmare. Plus, you might want to try a few of the craft beers or other libations available while enjoying great live music. Let WSL – your local limousine company – do the driving. Whether your group is big or small, we have a luxury vehicle and professional driver that’s right for you. Get dropped off and picked up at the front gate and truly enjoy your getaway. It’s a cost-effective option for large groups.

With so many great artists and days from which to choose, don’t miss your chance to have some fun at Summerfest this summer!

The Gift Your Dad Really Wants for Father’s Day is…

Posted On: 06/04/2019

Last month we gave you an extensive list of creative ways to break out of your gift-giving rut and show mom you care with unique Mother’s Day activities. With Father’s Day right around the corner, we’re getting straight to the point. Here’s what your dad (and fortunately you benefit, too) wants this year.

Crosstown Classic tickets with a Chicago private car service. It’s just that easy!

No matter what side of Chicago your call home or what suburb is listed on your driver’s license, you need to pick a team: Cubs or White Sox. This summer’s Windy City Showdown is just a few days after Father’s Day which falls on Sunday, June 16.

Game Day Information

The game at Wrigley Field is Tuesday, June 18 at 7:05 pm. The teams head south to Guaranteed Rate Field on Wednesday, June 19 at 7:05 pm for a rematch. During Spring training, the Cubs beat the White Sox twice but both teams have pride on the line in this series. The White Sox are in rebuilding mode and will show up ready to play. The Cubs have started the season strong and will want to keep momentum going.

History of the Cross-Town Classic

You’ll be taking part in Chicago history that spans more than 100 years. The Cubs and White Sox first met on October 9, 1906 for the World Series where the Cubs lost in six games, even though they were favored to win.

In 1985, the teams started an annual Windy City Classic charity game alternating between each stadium every year. Inter-league play in the MLB began in 1997 and the teams routinely play each other six times per year.

Biggest lopsided win – White Sox 12-2 on 6/24/2005
Biggest Shutouts – White Sox 7-0 on 5/20/2006, Cubs 7-0 on 5/27/2013
Highest scoring game – 15-11 Cubs on 7/2/2006
Complete Game – Jeff Samardzija 7-0 on 5/27/2013

Make the outing even more special by booking Chicago private car service from WSL. We’ll get you safely to and from the ball field. You and your dad can enjoy each other’s company while our professional chauffeur navigates traffic. You don’t need to find parking and can throw back a few cold ones during the game without worrying about who is going to drive home. It’s a win-win for you and your dad.

Treat Your Kids to a Hollywood-Style Movie Premiere

Posted On: 06/03/2019

Summer means no school, lots of free time and blockbuster movies. Studios know there is only so much fun in the sun kids can take before they need an air-conditioned escape at the local movie theatre. This summer, there are so many movies your kids are going to want to see before the school bell rings again. Why not amp up the fun quotient and treat your kids and some of their friends to a Hollywood-style movie premiere?

WSL can help! We prepared a list of when all the major kids’ movies are scheduled to hit the theaters. See what movie works best for the kids in your family, then give us a call to book limo rides to and from the theater. Make sure to invite a few friends (and parents, too) to join in on the fun. There is a good chance the rides in one of our luxury stretch limos, SUV limos or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus will get more posts on social media than the movie.

The Perfect Props

Before you head to the movie, it’s easy to get your house red-carpet ready with a little help from Amazon and get creative with some ideas from Pinterest.

Photo backdrop - Set-up a Hollywood backdrop or make your own covered in a sheet decorated with images from the movies. Take photos of the kids or let them shoot their own pics with their phones.

Red carpet – Spread a red floor runner or draw red chalk lines from your front door to the limo.

Party set-up – Amazon has lots of options for movie-specific party kits for tablecloths, napkins, etc. (check out this fun kit for Toy Story 4) or use your own stuff and have the kids color free printables downloaded from the Internet (here’s a whole bunch of Toy Story 4 options).

Summer Kids’ Movie Schedule

June 7: The Secret Life of Pets 2 - Continuing the story of Max and his pet friends, following their secret lives after their owners leave them for work or school each day. PG

June 7: Dark Phoenix - Jean Grey begins to develop incredible powers that corrupt and turn her into a Dark Phoenix. Now the X-Men will have to decide if the life of a team member is worth more than all the people living in the world. PG-13

June 21: Toy Story 4 - When a new toy called "Forky" joins Woody and the gang, a road trip alongside old and new friends reveals how big the world can be for a toy. G

July 2: Spider-Man: Far From Home - Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, Spider-Man must step up to take on new threats in a world that has changed forever. PG-13

July 19: The Lion King - After the murder of his father, a young lion prince flees his kingdom only to learn the true meaning of responsibility and bravery. Not yet rated

August 16: Angry Birds 2 - The flightless birds and scheming green pigs take their beef to the next level.  Not yet rated

It is also a good idea to purchase your tickets for the movie online in advance to make sure you get the number of seats you want on your preferred day and time. WSL will work with you to plan out the right amount of travel time between your house and the movie theatre, with a little extra driving around time if you want for the kids.

The Procrastinator’s Guide to Good Gifts at Chicago Airports

Posted On: 05/27/2019

Oops, did you forget to buy a gift for the family, friends or business associates you’re flying out of O’Hare or Midway to visit. No worries! WSL to the rescue with a handy guide of fun and unforgettable items you can buy at the airports to surprise the folks greeting you on the other end. Choose gifts from this list and no one will ever know you waited until the last minute (just be sure to remove the price tag).

Barbara’s Bookstore

Located in O’Hare’s Terminals 1, 2 and 3.  Check out the bookseller’s section of Chicago-themed fiction and non-fiction books. Our favorite item for kids is “Larry Gets Lost in Chicago” by Michael Mullin and John Shewes. The glossy hardback features a lovable dog (Larry) who loses his way in the Windy City but gets to see all the major sites before reuniting with his owner, Pete.

Billy Goat

Located in Midway’s Concourse A and O’Hare’s Terminal 1. Impress your friends or colleagues with the story of how this famous Chicago diner inspired the famous Saturday Night Live skit (“cheezborger, cheezborger, cheezborger, no Coke, Pepsi”) and pick up a souvenir t-shirt they’ll think you made a special trip to purchase.

Chicago Sports

Located in Midway’s Concourse B. Pick up ball caps, knit hats, t-shirts and jerseys featuring your hometown favorites: Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Bears, Blackhawks and Fire.

Discover Chicago

Located in Midway’s Central Market. Avoid the obvious airport souvenirs and pick up an assortment of Chicago’s own Kay’s Candy or Fannie Mae Candy.

Field Museum Store

Located in O’Hare’s Terminal 3. This store is ready to serve with specially packaged gifts-on-the-go that feature museum icon’s such as Sue the T rex.

Garrett’s Popcorn

Located in O’Hare’s Terminals 1, 3 and 5. This gourmet popcorn has been a Chicago tradition since 1949. You’ll probably want to pick up an extra bag for yourself so you don’t eat the gift before you land at your destination!

I Love Chicago

Located in O’Hare’s Terminal 5. This high-end boutique features hand-made artwork and products from local Chicago artists and artisans.

Don’t wait until the last minute to book your airport limo services to and from O’Hare or Midway. WSL recommends making your reservation at least 48 hours in advance to get the luxury vehicle you want and lock-down your pick-up time and location.

Day Trip: Escape to the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail

Posted On: 05/20/2019

No kidding, girls’ trips are good for your health. Science says so! Researchers have discovered evidence that spending time with friends can increase your production of oxytocin, the natural hormone our bodies release when we feel happy. Add some wine to the mix and that’s a recipe for great memories.

How ‘bout gathering up your crew and planning a day to trip to Michigan to explore the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. We suggest leaving the driving to WSL, your limo company with a variety of luxury stretch limos, stretch SUVs and a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus, so you can stay focused on fun, not fighting traffic or searching for parking. Plus, with a professional chauffeur from WSL at the wheel, everyone can sample the wine tasting with no worry about who is going to drive home.

Wineries for Miles

Check out the official Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail website to pick your favorite wineries and plan your route. There are about 20 wineries to choose from within 100 miles of the western suburbs of Chicago. For groups of six or more, the website recommends calling your chosen wineries in advance and making a reservation.

Realistically, you should be able to visit three or four wineries in one day, after you kick-off your limo company service first thing in the morning. Remember, Michigan is one hour ahead of Chicago. So, if your group were to leave the Chicago area at 8:00am, arrival time in Michigan would be 11:00am.

Note, according to the website, the third Saturday in June (this year it’s Saturday June, 15): 

The member wineries of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail come together to celebrate the wines of our region in Southwest Michigan and to provide a wonderful day of amazing wine for tasting, live music, great food all surrounded by the beauty of Lake Michigan and the towering dunes of the Warren Dunes State Park.”

Visit the Lake Michigan Wine Fest website for complete details.

Starting Off Local

Here’s a list of the wineries in Illinois that are closest to Chicago to kick-start your plans:

Warner Vineyards in Paw Paw offers tastings for $8/person that include five tastes of wine, beer, and/or cider.

Lazy Ballerina Winery in St. Joseph is the only women-owned winery in the area. The winery features a variety of small batch wines inspired by homemade family wine recipes.

White Pine Winery in St. Joseph showcases reds and whites from grapes that respond well to the area’s lake effect weather which “which brings warm days and cool evenings to the vines during the important spring and fall growing seasons.”

12 Corners Vineyards in Benton Harbor located in the Twelve Corners neighborhood was started by a small group of friends from Michigan who fell in love with the location.

A girls’ trip to the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail might be just what the doctor ordered. Get a date on the calendar now to up your good hormone production in the company of good friends and good wine.

Let The Good Times Roll In The Suburbs This Summer

Posted On: 05/13/2019

May flowers bring the festival season in the western suburbs and hopefully the end of the crazy weather we experienced in April. Check out this list of happenings featuring a wide variety of activities. See great art. Ride your bike. Delight your palate. Shop ‘til you drop.

May

4-5:  Art in the Park, Elmhurst.
16-19:  Taste of Glen Ellyn, Glen Ellyn.
18:  Aurora Water Lantern Festival, Aurora.
18:  What’s Blooming on Harrison, Oak Park.
18-19:  Chicago Open Air Music Fest, Bridgeview.
19:  Fahrrad Tour Von Schaumburg Bike Ride & Picnic, Schaumburg.
24-26:  Red, White & BBQ, Westmont.
30-June 2:  Taste of Wheaton, Wheaton.
31-June 2:  LaGrange Carnival, LaGrange.

June

1-2:  Fine Arts Festival at Graue Mill & Museum, Oak Brook.
8:  Tri-City Craft Brew Festival, St. Charles.
8-9:  Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival, Hinsdale.
14:  Cantigny Food Truck Festival, Wheaton.
14-15:  Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Itasca.
14-15:  Villa Park Summerfest, Villa Park.
15:  Solstice Hope & Vine Fest, Schaumburg.
20-23:  Rotary GroveFest, Downers Grove.
22-23:  Woman’s Club Fine Art Fair, Naperville.
29:  Cardboard Boat Regatta, Glen Ellyn.

July

3-6:  Eyes to the Skies Hot Air Balloon Festival, Lisle.
3-6:  Ribfest, Naperville.
7-8:  Hungarian Festival, Norridge.
11-14:  Taste of Westmont, Westmont.
12-14:  Sidewalk Sale, Hinsdale.
14:  Garden Walk & Faire, Elmhurst.
25:  Cosley Zoo Uncorked, Wheaton.

August

1:  The Big Fake Wedding, Aurora.
3:  Wheaton Brew Fest, Wheaton.
9-10:  Bartlett Summer Festival, Bartlett.
24-25:  Naperville Wine Festival, Naperville.
24-25: Oak Park Arts & Crafts Show, Oak Park.
30-Sept. 2:  Last Fling, Naperville.
31-Sept. 2:  Septemberfest, Schaumburg.

September

7-8:  Revolutionary War Reenactment, Wheaton.
7-8:  West End Art Festival, LaGrange.
20-21:  Oaktoberfest, Oak Park.
20-22:  Rocktoberfest, Plainfield.
21:  Lisle Ale Fest, Lisle.
21-22:  Riverwalk Fine Art Fair, Naperville.
28:  Villa Park Brewfest, Villa Park.

Make attending the events even more fun by making a limo reservation with WSL. That way everyone gets to enjoy the fun, and no one has to worry about who is driving home.

We’ve Got a Job for You!

Posted On: 05/04/2019

A recent article in the New York Times discusses what it takes to find more happiness at work. The takeaway is to discover what you love about what you do, what the author refers to as the “individual components of our job [that] actually make us happy.” Then use that list to help focus where you exert your energy. This small change can boost your happiness at work because you are more in control of doing meaningful work versus just completing tasks.

At WSL, we can attest that the approach described in the article works. A key part of our corporate culture is to make sure everyone knows they are part of a team that supports each other and that individual contributions are valued and respected.

It must be working because many members of our office team have worked at WSL for twenty or thirty years. We truly appreciate everyone who works here and treat each other like family.

Seeking Limousine Dispatchers

If that atmosphere sounds appealing to you, consider joining the WSL team as a limousine dispatcher. We’re currently hiring for both full- and part-time positions for the night shift with one weekend shift per month.

It’s a great opportunity to take charge of your career. We provide comprehensive training then you take over. You manage what happens during your shift with lots of autonomy. There’s no micromanaging at WSL. It’s a chance to thrive in a fast-paced environment where you are part of a team and a family who looks out for each other.

Benefits include health insurance, life insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance and a 401K for retirement savings.

WSL’s recently renovated office is located in Winfield, IL.

Interested in learning more about the limousine dispatcher position? Please email your resume and salary requirements to ssimkus@westsublimo.com.

Mother’s Day 2019: Creative Ways to Show Mom She’s the Best

Posted On: 05/01/2019

We have a secret. Your mom is tired the same-old, been-there-done-that celebration for Mother’s Day activities. Brunch at a nice restaurant is lovely, but she knows you can do better. Now is the time to mix it up and show Mom you care and put some effort into planning a special outing.

Fortunately, you don’t need to work too hard. WSL has done the outside-of-the-box thinking for you. Check out this list of fun activities you can do with your Mom on Mother’s Day or give her as a gift do to later this summer.

Cooking class – Whether she’s a master chef or just wants some new ideas, a cooking class is an inspired way to share a meal you’ve prepared together. Check out the new Marco’s Table in Elmhurst. Sign-up for the mailing list to learn about scheduled cooking classes or create a special class with Chef Marco just for your family.

Glamping – Trust us, your mom does not want help put up a tent and sleep on the ground. Instead, consider glamourous camping (glamping). Check out Glamping Hub for options in Illinois ranging from tree houses to refurbished barns to log cabins. It’s a great way to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort.

Antiquing – Since 1967, the Kane County Flea Market in St. Charles has been the “Best in the Midwest or Anywhere!” Spend an afternoon wandering the stands to find a one-of-a-kind find she’ll treasure forever. The market is open the first weekend of every month, Saturdays noon to 5 p.m. and Sundays 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Strawberry picking – Mid-June is when juicy strawberries are ripe for picking. Check out these nearby U-pick farms and plan a day trip with Mom to load up on the season’s best.

Chicago movie scavenger hunt – Race around Chicago streets looking for clues about movies filmed in Chicago in this scavenger hunt sponsored by Atlas Obscura on Friday, May 31. You need to make reservations now to secure your spot.

Mostly your Mom just wants to spend time with you. Make the outing even more special by booking a limo to and from the event. Enjoy refreshments and conversation along the way while a professional chauffeur pampers you in a luxury stretch or SUV Chicago limo. It’s a day your Mom will never forget.

The Better Business Bureau Still Reigns as the Measure of Good Service

Posted On: 04/29/2019

The growth of the Internet has spawned a number of ways for people to tell the world about good or bad service. You can read reviews for just about every type of business from dry cleaners to restaurants to dog walkers on Yelp, Google, Facebook, Twitter and many other sites. 

As part of our ongoing commitment to great customer service, WSL monitors online reviews. We, of course, love to read the positive feedback our clients post. Negative feedback is also important so we can make changes in how we do business if needed.

An article in the Harvard Business Review titled “Online Reviews Are Biased. Here’s How to Fix Them” points the inherent bias in online reviews.

“[o]nline reviews are a dual-edged sword. On the one hand, they’re a blessing if they help consumers to make more informed decisions. On the other hand, there is a systematic problem with many online reviews — they tend to over-represent the most extreme views.”

Makes sense. It’s human nature to want to warn others when we don’t get the service or product we expected. As a professional car service, we occasionally get nice posts about prompt and courteous service (what we expect from every trip!). Glowing reviews for any service or product generally require the reviewer to have received what they view as unexpected or over the top results.

To make sure we’re getting a good balance in our evaluation of online reviews, WSL continues to maintain our accreditation with the Better Business Bureau. This non-profit organization has a solid reputation for thoughtfully curating reviews. The BBB’s stringent standards for accreditation means a business meets a high bar for quality, trustworthiness and responsibility.

BBB Accreditation Standards

1. Build trust
2. Advertise honestly
3. Tell the truth
4. Be transparent
5. Honor promises
6. Be responsive
7. Safeguard privacy
8. Embody integrity

WSL first earned BBB accreditation in 1985. Since then, we have received the organizations “Complaint Free” award every year and maintain an A+ BBB Rating (learn more about BBB Ratings).

We’re very proud of our long-standing stellar rating with the BBB. It’s one of the benchmarks we evaluate to make sure we continue to provide excellent professional car service for our customers.

What The Expansion Of Our “Rate My Ride” Program Means To You

Posted On: 04/22/2019

According to the ASQ – an organization that helps companies with quality issues – the concept of Continuous Improvement is “the ongoing improvement of products, services or processes through incremental and breakthrough improvements.” They advocate utilizing the plan-do-check-act (PDCA) method to help companies focus on quality improvements.

The PDCA cycle includes:

•          Plan: Identify an opportunity and plan for change.

•          Do: Implement the change on a small scale.

•          Check: Use data to analyze the results of the change and determine whether it made a difference.

•          Act: If the change was successful, implement it on a wider scale and continuously assess your results. If the change did not work, begin the cycle again.

You’re probably wondering how that the mini business lesson applies to a luxury chauffeur service like WSL, and more importantly, you.

Customer Feedback

About two years ago, WSL implemented a “Rate My Ride" program to get real-time feedback from clients to find out what we’re doing right, and where we can improve. At the end of each trip, we ask riders to complete a short survey that takes less than a minute. Clients assess their private transport service in five categories that tell us about the driver, the vehicle, quality of service, whether they would recommend us and an open-ended field to tell us anything.

We use that feedback to make immediate changes if warranted. Basically, in the PDCA cycle, we completed steps “P” and “D.”

“Rate My Ride” Expansion

Now, we’re completing the PDCA cycle by expanding how we use the “Rate My Ride” data as part of our formal evaluation process for our professional chauffeurs. Scores from every “Rate My Ride” submission are now aggregated in a database. The average of the scores produces an overall grade for each driver:

•          A = 4.9 stars and up

•          B = 4.8 stars

•          C = 4.7 stars

•          D = 4.6 stars

•          F = 4.5 stars and below

The only passing grade that acceptable at WSL is an A. As a luxury chauffeur service, our customers should expect – and get – the best service possible.

During the upcoming mandatory Spring vehicle inspections, the WSL management team will sit down with each driver for an annual review. We will review grades with every driver and if they fall below an A, they will receive a performance improvement plan. If within a few months the grade doesn’t improve, it’s likely they will no longer be part of the WSL team.

What this means for our customers is they can depend on WSL for reliable, professional and safe luxury chauffeur service to and from their destinations.

How to Make Prom Night Special and Safe

Posted On: 04/15/2019

Soon the Instagram and Snapchat feeds of high school upperclassmen all over the Western suburbs will be filled with beautiful photos of couples in tuxes and formal gowns. It’s prom season!

Prom is a rite of passage for teenagers. The event is more than just the dance. Half the fun is picking out the perfect attire, ordering matching flowers, and getting the crew together beforehand for lots and lots of photos.

Up the Special Quotient

The evening is even more special when you rent a limo to whisk the party-goers between venues. Start with pick-up at home, schedule a stop at a scenic site for more photos, head to the dinner and dance, then head home happy and relaxed.

WSL has lots of options for the big night to accommodate every size group:

• Couples – choose from luxury Cadillac XTS, Lincoln MKS or Lincoln Continental sedans, or step up to a high-end Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator SUV.
• Small Groups – reserve a stretch limo so everyone can ride together and arrive in style.
• Big Groups – book WSL’s Mercedes-Benz Chicago Limo Bus featuring high-back captain’s chairs that holds up to 14 people. Every row features dual USB ports so mobile phones can charge between stops. Or get a party bus for an even bigger group.

Add Some Peace of Mind

Prom night is an exciting time, but it can also be dangerous. Teens don’t always make the best decisions. They just learned how to drive and there are lots of distractions when everyone is dressed up and ready to go.

Booking private transportation for prom night is safer. By leaving the driving to a professional chauffeur, no one has to worry about who is going to drive, where to park or how late it is.

No Partying Policy

Unlike what you see in some movies, there is no partying for minors in WSL a limo service. We’re very strict about our policy. No alcohol. No drugs. No deviations.

We require all teens and their parents to sign a waiver that clearly outlines the guidelines. It’s a great way to set the rules for kids so everyone knows how to behave. It also gives you a nice peace-of-mind that just because parents aren’t around, there’s still an adult monitoring what’s going on.

Don’t Delay

Spring is a busy time at WSL. Make sure to call as soon as possible to make plans for the evening and reserve the vehicle you want.

How to Book

Contact Sheryl, WSL’s special events coordinator now to book your prom limousine, sedan or bus. She is available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 630-668-9600, ext. 246. 

Where Do You Take Out-Of-Towners To Showcase Chicago’s Finest Food?

Posted On: 04/08/2019

Chicago is known far and wide for its delectable dining options. Sure, the area is home to a number of top-notch, Michelin-rated establishments like Alinea on Halsted in Lincoln Park and Vie in downtown Western Springs. But we want to know where you take out-of-town visitors to give them a true – and more affordable – sampling of Chicago’s finest fare.

WSL knows the Western suburbs well. During our more than 50 years driving folks to and from O’Hare, Midway and other points of interest, we’ve tried some of Chicago’s best food chains and standalone mom and pop shops. Here’s our list of tried and true favorites that every visitor should get their taste buds on before heading home.

Gene & Jude’s

You won’t find any seating at this popular hot dog joint at 2720 N. River Road in River Grove, just the finest Chicago-style dogs. Bring cash because they don’t accept credit cards. And make sure your guests don’t embarrass themselves by asking for ketchup on their dogs.

Superdawg

Speaking of hot dogs, you can’t go wrong at one of two locations for this Chicago staple. Visit the original shop at on Milwaukee Ave. at Devon and Nagle in Chicago, or the newer location on Milwaukee Ave. in Wheeling. Look for the trademark Maurie and Flaurie figures on the roof. Then pop inside to place your order or give visitors a real treat with car hop service.

Portillo’s

You can’t go wrong with any item on Portillo’s extensive menu of beef, hot dogs, hamburgers, ribs and salads. This Chicago mainstay has restaurants all over the suburbs and two spots in the city. They even have a “Shop & Ship” service, so out-of-towners can get their Portillo’s fix when they get home.

Hamburger Heaven

This charming spot at the corner of York Street and North Avenue in Elmhurst is only open during the Spring and Summer. Residents from all over the area flock to the restaurant for a nostalgic trip to the past and Richardson Root Beer that’s made in oak barrels. There’s limited seating outside, but Berens Park and Wilder Park are just a few blocks away if you want to treat visitors to an awesome experience.

Al’s Beef

With six locations in the city and outlets in Niles, Park Ridge and Tinley Park, you’re sure to find an easy path to the number one Italian beef sandwich in the area (the claim is right there on the sign!). The city even honored the restaurant with a street sign near its Taylor St. location.

Ricobene’s

If you’re headed to the south side, you’re going to want to take your visitors to Ricobene’s at 252 W. 26^th St. in Chicago. This choice isn’t as mainstream as the other but wait ‘til you get your mouth on the breaded steak sandwich. Yum.

Tell Us Your Pick

Don’t see your favorite place on the list? Head over to WSL’s Facebook page and let us know where you like to take out-of-towners.

Supporting the Community and Our Clients in Kane County

Posted On: 04/01/2019

WSL loves to support the communities we serve. It’s especially rewarding when we can honor long-time clients at the same time.

We were thrilled to participate in the CASA Kane County’s Children’s Champion Celebration Gala at the Q Center in St. Charles on Saturday, March 2. The nonprofit organization prevents children from falling through the cracks of the heavily populated court and child welfare system. CASA Kane County recruits, trains, and supervises community volunteers who serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates and Guardians ad Litem (CASA/GAL) for children who are in court due to abuse, neglect or private guardianship.

CASA reports they continue to serve 100% of children in probate and abuse/neglect court. Last year, CASA Kane County helped more than 500 children with the dedicated support of 220 CASA/GAL volunteers and 20 staff members.

Mike and Rosalind Lusk of Lusk Law LLC of Geneva and Sojourn Salon in North Aurora, were the honorary chairs of the event. Both are long-time clients of WSL and devote countless hours and resources to CASA Kane County and other worthwhile causes in the area.

The theme of this year’s gala was “The Places You’ll Go.” In just a few hours, attendees contributed more than $150,000 to support this important organization. Donors bid on live auction items and upped the ante multiple times on a wide variety of silent auction baskets.

WSL was happy to make a donation and contribute gift certificates for private transportation service. One of the gift certificate winners reports her son will have a magical prom being whisked to and from the event in a WSL luxury vehicle.

The event is annually one of the biggest social events in Kane County and the Q Center in St. Charles is an ideal location for the crowd of more than 1,000 attendees. The Q Center is a 95-acre campus with flexible conference space for groups large and small. The Q Center is also civic minded. Two times per week, employees deliver leftover pans of food to Lazarus House, a community home provides safe shelter, food and a range of support services for adults and children who are connected to Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles and western rural Kane County.

Getting Married? How To Book Transportation For The Big Day

Posted On: 03/25/2019

Planning your wedding is fun, exciting and let’s be honest a bit stressful. WSL is lucky to be part of so many couples’ big days. We work with brides and grooms all the time to make sure getting everyone to and from the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception and back home again is well organized and under control.

Here’s what you need to know before you book your wedding transportation (don’t miss the special offer at the end!):

When

As soon as you lock down a date for the ceremony and reception, it’s a good idea to contact your Chicago wedding limousine service to make a reservation. Ideally, you should make a reservation at least two months in advance of the event to ensure vehicles are available, especially during the busy Spring and Summer months.

Who

The answer to this question is critical to determining how many luxury vehicles to reserve. Are you providing rides for the entire wedding party? What about parents and grandparents? Do you want to offer car service to and from the airport for any out-of-town guests? It’s important to walk through the logistics of the event and figure out who needs to be where and when. WSL can help you create a timeline for all your transportation needs and provide you with an itinerary of pick-up times, locations and vehicles. Details are important!

Where 

There are generally three trips to coordinate for multiple wedding party members on the big day.

• To the ceremony – Are members of the bridal party traveling separately? What about parents or other special guests?
• To the reception – If the reception is at a different venue than the ceremony, after the vows how is everyone getting to the party? Do you have any stops along the way you want to make for photos?
• After the reception – How is everyone getting home or back to the hotel? Do you need flexibility with departure times?

Special Requests

Do you want chilled champagne waiting for you after the ceremony. Is there a special playlist you wish to hear during any of the trips? What else can the Chicago limousine service do to make your day special?

Budget 

Have a good idea in mind of how much you want to spend on private transportation. WSL will help you work within your budget and clearly spells out cancellation and refund policies.

The Honeymoon

Don’t forget to reserve transportation to and from the airport for the honeymoon!

To get all the details on our various wedding packages -- Stretch Limousines, SUVs, Party Bus, etc.-- please contact our Special Events coordinator, Sheryl, at 630-668-9600 x246. Sheryl is available Monday through Thursday, 8:00am to 2:00pm.

SPECIAL OFFER - Book your wedding package before May 31, 2019 and get $20 off your Honeymoon Trip ($20 off your Private Car to AND from the airport -- A $40 SAVINGS)! 

West Suburban Limousine is the number one choice for wedding limos in Chicago, and we would love to be a part of your special day. Availability is limited, call today!

Innovation Is What Fuels & Makes Chicago Special

Posted On: 03/18/2019

If you see a WSL limousine in the Chicagoland area, take a peek into the back seat. You never know who might be nestled in to the comfortable seating. It could be a Nobel prize winner, well-known professional athlete, acclaimed professor, trail-blazing chef or chart-topping musician.

All WSL clients get the same stellar treatment from our professional drivers. It is exciting to know that passenger might be on his or her way to do something pretty incredible. That’s because at its heart, Chicago as always been a center of innovation.

WSL has been around for more than 50 years. In that time, we’ve had a unique vantage point on the development of Chicago as a place where movers and shakers live and visit to get things done.

For example, since 1973 WSL has worked with Fermilab, America’s particle physics and accelerator laboratory located in Batavia. Fermilab scientists played a significant role in the steps that lead to the discovery of the Higgs Boson particle, an elementary particle in the Standard Model of particle physics.

Ray Kroc revolutionized the original McDonald’s concept to create the fast-casual giant we know today. The firm has been headquartered in the Chicago for decades and WSL has driven many executives, including the designer of the famous “Golden Arches” logo.

Folks at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont are always on the move. The research center, originally started as part of the University of Chicago’s work on the Manhattan Project, is home to scientists and engineers working on some of the biggest issues facing our world.

On the lighter side, Chicago has certainly put its stamp on the comedy world. The Second City has launched the careers of well-known artists such as Tina Fey, Bill Murray and Dan Ackroyd. Famous comedians who grew up in the Chicago area include Melissa McCarthy, Vince Vaughn, Kathy Griffin and the Belushi brothers (John and Jim).

As WSL limo services in Chicago suburbs traverse the Chicagoland area, we deliver lots of passengers to small office buildings where we’re certain the next great technology company is percolating. There’s lots of talent and venture funding supporting hundreds of tech start-ups in the Silicon Prairie.

We’re happy to play a role in the spirit of innovation in Chicago. We are always making sure these movers and shakers are are provided with limo service in Chicago safely and in style. Our professional drivers are the best at what they do backed by stringent training, licensing and vehicle maintenance requirements.

Top 5 Myths About Visiting Chicago

Posted On: 03/11/2019

Chicago is a top tourist destination for good reason. Folks flock to the City of Big Shoulders from all over the world to check out the sights, sounds and flavors. But there are a number of myths about Chicago fueled by news coverage, TV shows and movies that just don’t ring true.

Check out this list of misconceptions about our beloved Chicago. Let’s bust a few myths!

It’s Dangerous

Since the days of Al Capone, Chicago has borne a reputation as a violent city. It’s true that gun violence is a major issue, but is generally isolated in areas of the city that aren’t popular with tourists. The city actually doesn’t even make the top 20 of most dangerous cities in the United States when you consider homicides per 100,000 people. You might be surprised to learn St. Louis holds the number one spot.

Michigan Avenue Is Where It’s At

Yes, Michigan Avenue in the heart of Chicago is a great place to start for exceptional shopping. But, it’s just the launching pad to so many other great attractions in Chicago. You’ll want to hit the hot spots like “The Bean” in Millennium Park, Willis Tower and the Michael Jordon statue at the United Center. You’ll also want to venture out into the neighborhoods to take advantage of the vibrant arts and comedy scene (every heard of Second City?).

I’ll Eat Deep Dish Pizza and Hot Dogs for Every Meal

While you certainly will want to sample as much delicious deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs as you can during a visit, don’t miss out on the culinary offerings in the city. Many top chefs call Chicago home like Stephanie Izard from Girl & the Goat and Grant Achatz from Alinea. Make sure to spread your taste buds all over town.

Everyone Looks and Talks Like Mike Ditka

Don’t get us wrong, we love “Da Coach” and there are many mustachioed, tough-talking guys all over the city. But, Chicago is a melting pot of people from all over the world. The Chicago accent may have a lot of hard consonants, but the people are softies at heart.

Smoke Stacks Everywhere

Manufacturing is important to Chicago’s economy, but many Fortune 500 companies are headquartered here including McDonald’s and Boeing. Fermilab and Argonne National Laboratory have long been centers of science and engineering research. You’ll also find a number of innovative tech start-ups that pull talent from area universities.

Limousine Service in Chicago

At WSL, we provide Chicago limousine service all over the area. Every day, we experience firsthand the beauty, tastes and wonderful people that make Chicagoland so special. Don’t be fooled by the myths.

Are You Ready for St. Patrick’s Day?

Posted On: 03/04/2019

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. This year, March 17 falls on a Sunday. But you can be sure folks all over the Chicago area will celebrate the entire weekend (and likely the weekend before, too!). Before the city dyes the Chicago River green, be sure to lock down your transportation plans so you can enjoy a few Guinness knowing your trip home is already set.

There are so many fun events and Irish-themed locations in the Chicago area. Check out these great options to celebrate the patron saint of Éire.

Parades

The Chicago area is hosting four St. Patrick’s Day parades.

• Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Saturday, March 9 at noon – This annual event is the place to kick-off the wearing o’ the green in the Western suburbs and features more than 80 floats, Irish dancers, marching bands and local team mascots like Tommy Hawk and Benny the Bull.
• Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Saturday, March 16 at noon – The parade starts at Balbo and Columbus and winds its way north past Buckingham Fountain. Parking is tight, so other transportation is highly recommended.
• South Side Irish Parade, Sunday, March 17 at noon – The parade steps off from 103^rd and Western, heading south down Western to 115^th. This year, the parade honors the Honor Flight Chicago organization which recognizes America’s war veterans from World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War by flying them to Washington D.C. to tour the memorials built in their honor
• Northwest Side Irish Parade, Sunday, March 17 at noon – This parade celebrates Irish heritage in the Norwood Park neighborhood, followed by an official after party at Immaculate Conception Recreation Center at 7271 W. Talcott Ave.

Celebrations

Check out these Irish bars and restaurants in the city and suburbs.

• Galway Arms Irish Bar and Restaurant, 2442 N. Clark St., Chicago – Name an Irish whiskey and you’re sure to find it well stocked at Galway. The venue bills itself the soul of Ireland in the heart of Chicago.
• The Kerryman, 661 N. Clark St., Chicago – You’ll need to purchase tickets in advance to hang out at this authentic Irish pub on March 16. Irish-born owners serve up a number of traditional Irish dishes.
• McNally’s Traditional Irish Pub, 109 W. Main St., St. Charles – This charming pub puts Guinness to good use. Of course, the Irish beer is served properly in specially designed pint glasses. You’ll also find Guinness-battered cod nuggets along with a menu full of Irish favorites.
• Quigley’s Irish Pub, 43 E. Jefferson St., Naperville – Enjoy live music throughout the day on March 16. The Finder on the Trigger performs at noon. Cirrus Falcon rounds out the evening at 8:30 p.m.

Shopping

Need some Irish-themed swag before the celebrations begin?

• The Irish Boutique, Crystal Lake Plaza, Crystal Lake – You’ll find a store full of Celtic-inspired decorations, jewelry, clothing and barware.
• Irish-American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave, Chicago – Check out the gift shop for all your Irish needs for the home, kitchen, clothing and accessories.
• Murray’s Irish Outfitters, 3021 Butterfield Rd., Oak Brook – A complete Irish shopping experience featuring cable-knit sweaters, jewelry and giftware.

WSL is a great option for private limo driver and transportation for groups of people. Whether you need car service from Naperville, a stretch limo from St. Charles, or the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van from Geneva; now is the time to call WSL to book your St. Patty’s celebration outing.

A Love Letter to Team WSL

Posted On: 03/01/2019

Did you know that the first Friday in March is National Employee Appreciation Day in the United States and Canada? This year it falls on March 1. While we like to think we WSL’s team knows how much they are valued, it’s a good day to make sure they feel the love.

WSL is a busy place. We’re one of the 50 largest private car transport service providers in the United States and are in the top five in the Chicago area. That means dynamic, ever-changing days and nights for our 25 employees who work in-house, and our more than 100 professional drivers. Someone is always available 24x7 to make sure you get where you need to go, whether it’s a one-way trip to O’Hare or Midway or round-trip service to and from Chicago.

Take a look at all the people who continue WSL’s tradition of providing comfortable, safe and on-time private black car service in well-maintained luxury vehicles:

Reservations

Our reservations specialists are the brains of the team. This team covers two shifts to make sure we’re available when you need us to book your car service in Chicago area. They are very focused on capturing all the details, so you get picked up on time in the type of vehicle that best suits your needs.

Dispatch

The folks are the heart of the company, working around the clock to make sure our drivers know where to go, who they are serving and what to expect on the crazy Chicago-area roadways.

Accounting

This dedicated team is the central nervous system of WSL, making sure our corporate clients are billed accurately in a timely manner.

Special Events

Our special events coordinator is the spirit of the company, working with wedding parties, event goers and anyone with a unique request to make sure that their luxury limo service Chicago area contributes to the joy of their special days.

Professional Drivers

Our chauffeurs are the blood, sweat and tears of the company. They are the ones who deliver on the promise WSL makes to every client for timely service in a luxury vehicle driven by a trained professional.

“I’ve been lucky enough to work with many of the WSL for more than 25 years,” said Scott Simkus, vice president of operations. “I know how hard everyone works and am very appreciative of their dedication to making WSL a special place that takes care of its employees and its clients.”

Corporate Car Service | Alternative to Flying for Regional Travel

Posted On: 02/25/2019

There’s an old adage that says, “time is money.” That expression is especially true when it comes to business travel. When your business meeting is in the Midwest, how much time are you wasting traveling to the airport for a short 45-minute flight during which you can barely open your laptop before it’s time to land?

WSL has a better option that enables you to be productive the entire trip: corporate car service for regional travel.

Let’s look at a common regional trip from a northwest Chicago suburb, Glen Ellyn, to Indianapolis. Assume your flight out of O’Hare is at 11 a.m. To allow for the time needed to travel to the airport, get through security and arrive at your gate on time, WSL recommends pick-up two hours prior to the flight. The flight itself is about one hour. Then you need to make your way to the car rental plaza, secure your vehicle and drive to your meeting or hotel. You just burned four hours with limited time to focus on getting anything done besides getting yourself to Indy.

The Corporate Car Service Alternative

Now, consider a different option that enables you to use travel time to its full advantage, whether you want to work on your laptop, make business calls, or catch a few extra ZZZZs without any interruptions.

Let a professional driver from WSL do the driving, providing superb car service in Chicago. We do it all the time for executives who want to get the most out of their days while traveling in the region.

Using the same Glen Ellyn to Indianapolis trip as an example, let’s look at the difference corporate car service for regional travel makes. WSL can pick you up at your home and drive you directly to your destination in less time than it takes to go to the airport, fly to Indy, then figure out transportation to where you need to be. You have the flexibility to work (or binge watch that Netflix series you’ve meant to try!) the entire time, round trip. You’ll arrive at your meeting well prepped and stress free.

WSL works closely with you to meet your needs for transport while in your destination city and can even spend the night if your plans require an evening out.

Give WSL a call at 1-630-668-9600. We’ll ask for a few details about your corporate car service needs and provide a quote (generally no more expensive than flying). Then you can decide how much your time is worth. We bet you’ll choose to get the most out of your travel time in the back of a WSL luxury vehicle.

You Have Questions! We Have Answers About Chicagoland Limo Service

Posted On: 02/18/2019

WSL is on the road every day, transporting passengers all around the city and suburbs. During our Chicagoland limo service trips, WSL’s drivers get lots of questions. Some subjects come up on a regular basis and are addressed on our Limo Rental Frequently Asked Questions page on our website.

Other questions fall in a few less frequently asked categories: 

1. Life Happens, and WSL Understands

“I forget my laptop at work, can we make a side trip to pick it up?”

“I have a caffeine headache; can we stop for coffee on the way to the airport?”

“Oh no, I left my phone at home. Can we turn around?’

We get it. Sometimes leaving the house for a work trip can be a mad dash. WSL will do everything we can to accommodate your special requests. Many times, our ability to add extra time or miles to your ride depends on your professional driver’s next scheduled pick-up. In some cases, additional charges may be added to account for the extra services.

2. I Know What I Want

“I recently hurt my knee. Can I reserve a sedan instead of an SUV so I can get in and out more easily?”

“I love my driver. Can I get him every time I ride with WSL?”

We want you to be happy with your Chicagoland limo service from WSL. Just let us know your preferences when you make a reservation and we’ll do everything we can to provide the type of vehicle you want from our luxury fleet or assign your preferred chauffeur if he’s available.

3. Help, The Airline Changed My Flight

“My flight was changed from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. What happens now?”

“I’m stuck at the airport because my flight was canceled. Can you come get me?”

WSL is on your side. Let us know as soon as you can about changes to your travel plans and we’ll do everything we can to get you where you need to go. We understand that bad weather can paralyze O’Hare and Midway with little notice to passengers. Let us know what you need, and we’ll provide realistic wait times and options for shared rides, so you’re not stranded at the airport indefinitely.

4. I Have An Idea.

“I want to surprise my girlfriend with a special night out. Can I bring champagne for the limo ride? Can I play my special playlist on the sound system?”

“My buddies and I want to go to a concert at Soldier Field then hit a few hot spots on the way home. Can we reserve a car for the evening?”

WSL loves special occasions and group outings! So much so that we have a special events coordinator on staff to help you plan private transportation. Call Sheryl on Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 630-668-9600, ext. 246.

Ready To Escape? | Chicago Suburbs Limo Service for Spring Break

Posted On: 02/11/2019

After recently experiencing some of the coldest weather Chicago has encountered in quite a while, our thoughts turned to possibilities for Spring Break. We spent our time trapped inside Googling ideas for vacations at all-inclusive resorts where you don’t need to worry about the cost of drinks and food because it’s all built into one price.

Here’s some of the really cool options we found that would be a great escape from Chicago in March.

Bahamas – Grand Lucayan

The resort’s website promises a “perfect balance between the luxuries of a modern-day resort and the magic of one steep in Bahamian culture.” Included in the all-inclusive packages are drinks, dining, entertainment, beaches, golf and all gratuities, taxes and service charges. That means no surprises on your invoice at the end of the trip.

California – The Alisal

Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country is the Alisal Guest Ranch * Resort that features western-themed accommodations. What a fun place for the entire family. You can ride horses on 50 miles of trails, enjoy the 100-acre spring-fed lake, play golf and tennis, swim and indulge at the spa. The Round-Up Vacation Package includes accommodations, breakfast and dinner, golf and tennis court fees, fishing supplies, horseback trail rides and complimentary wine tastings at nearby wineries…something for everyone.

Cancun – Haven Riviera Cancun

Cancun is a popular destination with lot of all-inclusive resorts. Check out Haven Riviera, Cancun’s newest resort that just a 15-minute drive from the airport. The entire property features sleek furnishings and muted earth tones. More than 80 guest rooms feature swim-outs directly to a pool. You can also upgrade your experience by booking a Serenity Club ocean front rooms that feature butler service.

Dominican Republic – Sanctuary Cap Cana

Looking for an adults-only getaway? Consider the Sanctuary Cap Cana in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Relax in comfort and choose from five restaurants, six bars, unlimited drinks, 24-hour room service, private beach, stocked mini-bar, daily activities and nightly entertainment. Plus, the resort is home to Punta Espanda Golf Club, one of the best in the Caribbean.

Maui – Travaasa Hana

Want to leave Chicago as far behind as possible while still staying in the United States, Maui in Hawaii is a great option. But, all-inclusives in Hawaii are different from what you find in the Caribbean. The Travaasa Hana offers a program that includes all meals, snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, activities at the facility. The resort is located in a less populated part of Maui on the eastern tip. You can explore a variety of packages including culinary, culture, fitness and adventures.

Book Private Car Transportation Now

March is always the busiest month for WSL with our usual mix of corporate and private reservations combined with the addition of Spring Break transportation. That’s why we recommend booking early to make sure you get the right Chicago suburbs limo service for your needs at the time you want.

Plus, if you’re taking a big clan on the getaway, take advantage of WSL’s Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus promotion. Book now and take advantage of special pricing: get the Sprinter Bus for the cost of a stretch limo – a 20 percent discount, for parties of up to10 people. Availability is limited, so you need to book soon to take advantage of the offer.

Contact Sheryl, WSL’s special events coordinator now to book the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus as the discounted rate. She is available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 630-668-9600, ext.246. 

For best service, WSL prefers bookings at least 48 hours in advance.

Offer is Valid until March 31, 2019

*$36 Chicago city tax added to the return trip if the party is picked up from O’Hare or Midway. Some other fees may be added for event parking or venue fees if applicable. The Special Events coordinator will outline the details when booking the rides.

Online Portal for Corporate Clients | Sedan & Stretch Limo Services

Posted On: 02/04/2019

For corporate travel managers, keeping tabs on expenses can be one of the most challenging parts of the job. Business travelers are a busy bunch and the submission of expense reports often isn’t their first priority after returning from a trip.

That’s why WSL offers an online portal for corporate clients to make management of private transportation services a bit easier. We already have many clients taking advantage of the service. Does it make sense for your business?

Here’s what the WSL online portal includes:

1. Online Branded Portal – simply log-in to the WSL online portal that is customized with your company’s brand.
2. Easy Access to Bookings – from a dashboard, you’re able to take a look at current and past reservations to get quick insights into who is traveling soon or an historical overview.
3. Cost by Employee – drill down into expenses by employee to better understand how private transportation services are being used and how costs are split out by cost centers.
4.  Self-Service Reservations with Pre-Set Limitations – make it easy for your company’s travelers to book their own rides without losing controls. Say you have a salesperson who likes stretch limo service, but really only needs a sedan for a trip to O’Hare. Pre-set limitations by person, role in the company and/or number of riders regulate what vehicles are offered, number of trips per a specific time period, or any other parameter you want to place on booking options.

Appreciation of Transparency

Our clients tell us they appreciate the transparency the portal provides into their private transportation costs. They can easily see how many trips were for travel to and from O’Hare and Midway, or for other business purposes. Rates for trips are already determined, so there is no worry about surge pricing imposed by ride sharing services. Plus, overall costs are easy to audit and compare against employees’ travel logs.

For more information about how to set-up a WSL online portal for your company, contact Jennifer at (630) 668-9600 ext. .

Top 5 Tips to Cut Business Travel Costs | Car Service To/From O'Hare

Posted On: 02/01/2019

According to the Chicago Department of Aviation, every month about 5 million people pass through O’Hare. Midway accommodates about 1.5 million travelers every month. While some of those folks are headed out on personal travel, we know that most flyers are focused on getting business done as efficiently as possible.

Travel can be expensive, but there are ways for business road warriors to keep costs under control. Check out these five tips to help your business travelers get where they need to go while getting the most out of your company’s travel and expense budget.

Book in Advance

When reserving car service to O’Hare or booking flights, early birds really to get the worm. Try to arrange private car service and air travel at least two weeks in advance. That way you have the best choice from options for vehicles and flight times at the best rates.

Sign-Up for Rewards Programs

Most travel-related services offer rewards programs. Is your company taking advantage? As your employees enroll, make sure you incorporate their rewards accounts at hotels and airlines into your booking systems and procedures so you can take advantage of discounts, free nights and other deals.

Refresh the Corporate Travel Policy

Did you know Uber and Starbucks are the vendors that appear most often on travel expense reports in North America? Make sure your company’s corporate travel policies are up to date so employees know how much they are permitted to spend on ride sharing services, meals and other daily expenses. There is likely a good opportunity to point travelers to ways to save by making smarter choices about where they make purchases, limits on per diem and options for other service providers (see #4 below).

Contract with Service Providers for Better Rates

When your employees need car service from O’Hare after a trip, have you provided direction on the best, most cost-effective way to get home? For example, at WSL, we have contracts with a number of leading companies in the suburbs. We work with the folks that manage travel expenses to provide set prices for rides as well as offer an online portal through which trips can be booked and expenses reviewed. Unlike ride sharing services, WSL does not require surge pricing during busy times or bad weather. Your employees will always get the set price and be driven home by a professional driver in a late model luxury vehicle.

Reward Employees Who Reduce Costs

Reward programs work well as incentives for employees, too. Create a program that motivates travelers to looks for ways to reduce costs. You can either reward individual employees or business unit teams that maintain the lowest travel expenses per trip with gift cards, corporate swag or other in-demand items.

Ultimately, making it easier for employees to reduce business travel costs comes down to setting expectations, taking advantage of discounts available from service providers and offering them incentives.

Meet Mike Sullivan: WSL’s Middle of the Night Miracle Worker

Posted On: 01/28/2019

Getting up in the middle of the night to catch an early morning flight can be a drag. The last thing you want to worry about it whether your ride to the airport will show up on time. That’s why WSL, a Chicago area limo service, has our very own Superman of the morning shift to make sure our professional drivers are waiting outside your door while the sun is still sleeping.

His name is Mike Sullivan and he’s definitely a morning person. Mike arrives at WSL every day at 2:30 am. when most people are fast asleep. He says waking up in the middle of the night is a “piece of cake.”

His first order of business is to check the schedule of rides and assigned drivers for early morning pick-ups. Drivers are required to check-in with Mike one hour prior to their first drive. It’s part of WSL’s best practices to ensure customers are get great service from pick-up to drop-off.

Occasionally, a driver misses the check-in. Then Mike jumps in to action and contacts the driver to make sure he or she is ready to go. He jokingly calls it “Mike’s babysitting service,” but you can be sure the drivers appreciate the extra effort. Mike is relentless and will call the driver’s spouse or other family member if he can’t reach the driver on his or her mobile phone.

Thirty Plus Years of Service

Many of WSL’s employees have been with the company for more than a quarter century. Mike started at WSL in 1985 as a driver for six years before adding dispatch duties to his role. One of Mike’s most memorable drives was in the 80’s when he picked up Lionel Richie on Thanksgiving. They got along so well that Mike ended up sharing Thanksgiving dinner with the singer and his entire family.

When the early morning dispatch shift opened up, Mike jumped at the chance to trade in the driver’s seat for a permanent spot at the dispatch desk.

Mike’s long-term tenure comes in handy. Before the days of GPS, Mike spent a lot of time helping drivers figure out how to get to customers’ residences. The introduction of GPS changed how drivers navigate their routes, but it’s not a sure-fire technology. Mike’s extensive knowledge of the western suburbs comes in handy when GPS is wrong, especially in unincorporated areas. Some customers even have notes in their profiles to not follow GPS directions.

Mike can’t imagine working anywhere else.

“WSL has a genuine family atmosphere,” says Mike. “Everyone is really comfortable working together and our management team makes sure it a good place to work.”

In fact, when Mike takes vacation it is often members of the management team who take over his duties so as not to alter the schedules of the rest of the dispatch team.

Gone Fishin’

When he’s not burning the midnight oil at WSL, you’re likely to find Mike at his favorite fishing hole about two blocks from his home. He often fishes in the afternoon and takes his grandson along, although Mike says the six-year-old is currently more interested in climbing trees.

Mike also has a group of close-knit friends who have hung out together for more than 30 years. They have a fishing club, like to golf and play darts together every week.

On his days off, Mike says he sleeps in until about 4:30 am. Fortunately, his wife Carol is a sound sleeper and is not disturbed by Mike’s early morning schedule.

“I could bang a pot next to her head and she wouldn’t wake up,” said Mike.

Mike is also a music lover and is well known around the office for winning radio call-in contests.

Advances in Customer Service

During Mike’s 30+ years in the Chicago area limo industry, he’s seen quite a few changes. He reports that WSL’s new app is a great addition to the dispatch team’s toolkit.

“It’s great, with just one click we can send info to a customer with the driver’s name, plate number and where to meet the car,” said Mike. “Customers really appreciate the convenience and certainty of knowing WSL is taking care of them.”

Looking Forward to Improved Customer Service

Posted On: 01/21/2019

The dawning of the new year has us thinking about all the plans we’re working on to continue to provide customer service. It’s part of our strategic planning process to continuously improve how we deliver Chicago airport car service, private car service, corporate/executive transportation and special event limo service.

Here’s a sneak peek at what we’re thinking about for the next two years.

Mobile App Improvements

We launched the WSL mobile app in 2018 on both the Android and Apple platforms. It’s got a lot of great features such as the ability to book pre-arranged trips, control payment information and even track the location of your driver. We’re exploring ways to make the app even more useful, possibly with driver profile photos and automated communication. The goal is to provide as much information as possible to ensure customers know their private transportation needs are under control.

Enhanced Safety, Training and Insurance

There are a lot of government regulations for private transportation services (but oddly not as much oversight for ride sharing services), and for good reason. The safety of customers is everything! At WSL, we are stringent about meeting all regulations, but that’s just a starting point. We view regulations as the bare minimum and will continue to perform scheduled and spot vehicle inspections and evaluate what else we can do to ensure our vehicle fleet is well cared for. We also continue to provide standardized training for all our drivers as well as one-on-one feedback sessions based on input from customer responses to Rate My Ride questionnaires and other feedback. Plus, we maintain high insurance liability and evaluate coverage annually to make sure it meets our customers’ needs.

Improving User Experience with Online Booking

Our online reservation option is a popular method for customers to book private transportation. Watch for updates over the next two years at westsublimo.com for new features such as rate quotes and other options.

Growing Social Media Presence

For more than a year, we’ve been boosting our social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and our own blog. We really enjoy the instant feedback from customers that we otherwise might now have received.  We plan to expand how we use social media to make sure our customers know about offers, new additions to our fleet of luxury vehicles, community events and contests. Expect more live videos with special announcements and news about what’s happening in the western suburbs. Staff monitor our social media outlets and can answer questions and help you book rides. 

As always, if you have suggestions for ways WSL can serve you better, please let us know on Facebook, Twitter or directly at 630-668-9600.

Now’s the Time to Try Out the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus

Posted On: 01/14/2019

Have a big group of people you need to get from point A to point B? There’s never been a better time to do it in style in the WSL Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus. Book now and take advantage of special pricing: get the Sprinter Bus for the cost of a stretch limo – a 20 percent discount, fo parties of 10 or less* But, you need to book soon to take advantage of the offer because availability is limited.

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus is a high-end Chicago limo bus with luxurious high-back captain’s chair seating for up to 14 people. The chairs are placed in five rows of stadium seating with a generous aisle for easy in an out. Of course, there’s lot of amenities. Every row features blue backlit dual USB ports for easily accessible access to power to charge laptops, tablets and mobile devices on the road. Every seat has its own individual LED reading light and passenger-controlled heating/cooling options.

The possibilities are endless for reasons to get on the Chicago limo bus for fun or business. Here’s a few ideas:

1. Corporate – Transport executives in style to the airport, meetings, dinner and events.
2. Holiday Parties – Add safe transportation to your list of must-haves for your next company gathering.
3. Game Day – Focus on the fun to and from the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks and WSL’s favorite – the Kane County Cougars.
4. Concerts – Eliminate the hassle of navigating to and parking at big concert venues and put the Sprinter bus’s excellent sound system to work.
5. Meeting on Wheels – Combine business with fun by hosting your meeting on the bus. Check out how the Winfield Lions Club used this luxury sprinter van rental and rewarded members with a meeting on the road that added a bit of merrymaking to the agenda.
6. Brewery/Winery Tour – New breweries are popping up all over the Chicago area. And, you don’t need to travel to Napa Valley to do a wine tour (check out the top 10 wineries in the Chicago area). Focus on the tastings and leave the driving to WSL.
7. Birthday Parties – Why should kids have all the fun? Pull together your friends and plan a special outing for your birthday. You’ll celebrate from beginning to end on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus.

Contact Sheryl, WSL’s special events coordinator now to book the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus as the discounted rate. She is available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 630-668-9600, ext.246. 

For best service, WSL prefers bookings at least 48 hours in advance.

Offer is Valid until March 31, 2019

*$36 Chicago city tax added to the return trip if the party is picked up from O’Hare or Midway. Some other fees may be added for event parking or venue fees if applicable. The Special Events coordinator will outline the details when booking the rides.

Safety, Reliability and Service Emerge as the Winners in the SUV Preference Survey

Posted On: 01/07/2019

Last month, WSL asked for your input on what type of SUVs we should consider as we update our SUV Chicago limo fleet of luxury vehicles in 2019. We want to know what is important to you when travelling via Chicago SUV car service. Is it the brand? Perhaps you like a specific crossover style? Are you interested in the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle?

In November, we sent out a survey through our monthly e-mail newsletter and on Facebook. In both platforms, we asked for your thoughts on three SUVs: Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade and Chevy Suburban.

No clear winner emerged. This response accurately represents the feeling of most survey takers:

“I don't care what type of vehicle is used as long as it's big enough for the number of passengers and bags and it is clean.”

You also told us it’s important for you to be able to easily get in and out of the SUV and you want plenty of room for your luggage.

“I really don't care what brand of car picks me up, as long as it is clean and up to date on safety features, with good tires, etc. I'm good with it!”

We also heard loud and clear that you mostly value on-time service, safe driving and courteous chauffeurs.

“Honestly, it really doesn't matter which of the three models you chose - I would be happy with any of them as long as the ride is on time and safe.”

We were pleasantly surprised that people also used to survey to provide feedback not related to the choice of SUVs. The vast majority of people included nice comments about the professionalism of our drivers, our reliable service and great safety record.

A few customers also provided some ideas about areas where we have some room for improvement which we welcome and take very seriously. In fact, we have a number of ways you provide feedback after a ride in our Chicago SUV car service or any of our luxury vehicles.

How to Provide Feedback to WSL

• Rate My Ride – At the end of each trip, we ask riders to complete a short survey that takes less than a minute. Clients give us reviews for their private transport service in five categories that tell us about the driver, the vehicle, quality of service, whether they would recommend us and an open-ended field to tell us anything.
• Facebook – You can always leave a note for WSL on our Facebook page, which we regularly monitor and respond to comments. We currently have a 4.8/5 rating.
• Twitter – You can reach us on Twitter at @WestSubLimo. You can also follow us to stay up-to-date on special offers.
• Google – Write a review on Google so others can learn about your experience with WSL.
• Yelp – Let us know what you think on our Yelp page and rate our service.

As always, we thank-you for your feedback. We care about what our customers think and use your input to guide our decisions.

9 Great Places to Watch the Bears in the Playoffs in the Western Suburbs

Posted On: 01/01/2019

Back in September we predicted, in our “Limo Service to Soldier Field” article, that this season was a great time to get back on the Bear’s bandwagon. But, boy did we underestimate the potential of our boys in blue and orange. We assumed the Vikings and Packers would fight it out for the NFC North division title and were excited by the prospect of a wild card berth for the Bears. We’ve never been so glad to be wrong!

Now that the Bears earned the division title, we look forward to post-season play. Ticket prices for playoff games are likely to be astronomical. As a provider of limo services in the Chicago suburbs, we know lots of great places to stay a bit closer to home and enjoy the play by play, great food and community spirit at one of these great bars/restaurants in the western suburbs:

Aurora – Two Brothers Roundhouse is an historic landmark in the western suburbs. The giant converted rail depot features Two Brothers artisan beers and lots of space to spread out with all your friends. FUN FACT: This historical building was purchased back in 1995 by Chicago Bears legend, Walter Payton! 

Bloomingdale – 25 West Brewery is conveniently located in the Stratford Mall, so even if a few of your crew aren’t football fans, they can pop out to scour the post-Christmas sales while you enjoy the game.

Elmhurst – Pints has all the right numbers: 17 HDTVs, 20 craft beers on tap and more than 50 other bottled beer choices. No matter where you sit, you’re sure to be able to see the game.

Glen Ellyn – Maize + Mash promises an extensive whisky and cocktail list along with a modern bistro menu. The Bend & Snap cocktail looks inviting with a mix of white tequila, Cointreau, raspberry jam, lime and ginger beer. Jam in a cocktail!

Lombard – Miller’s Ale House bills itself as the “House of Football” with more than 60 televisions for your viewing pleasure, plus great drink specials and wings.

Naperville – Draft Picks. Burgers. Beer. Pizza. Enough said? Take advantage of their Sunday specials including $1 sliders and half-price chicken sandwiches.

St. Charles – Alley 64 loves the Bears and treats patrons to free chili during every game.

Wheaton – The Burger Social is the place for burgers! Treat your taste buds to hand formed burgers made only from beef sourced from local Midwest farms in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.

Winfield – Caliendo’s has a menu jammed-packed with traditional Italian favorites, pizza, burgers and specialty sandwiches. Plus, it’s Smirnoff Sunday Funday with $3.50 mixers and $2.50 Bud & Bud Light bottles.

Chicago Suburbs Limo Service for the Bears Playoffs

No matter where you watch the playoff games in the Chicago suburbs, count on WSL for quality limo service to get you safely to and from the watch parties.

When Times Change, WSL Adapts For You

Posted On: 12/26/2018

We recently ran across an article in Luxury Coach & Transportation (LCT), the industry publication private transportation, about the ways in which the limousine industry has changed forever. Many entries on the list focused on the changes in the limos themselves and upgrades in technology that make it easier to provide great service to customers such as credit card processing and online booking.

Deep in the list was an item that was surprising: 9/11/01.

Of course, we all remember that horrible day and take time to honor the first responders and victims of the attacks, as well as the service men and women who continue to fight for our freedom.

The article pointed out that since the tightening of airport security, limousines are no longer permitted to wait in front of airport terminals for passengers. Chauffeurs can no longer greet clients at the jet bridge with a signboard in hand. The limitations make sense and WSL is happy to comply.

Changing Rules, Same Stellar Service

We have, however, come up with new ways to provide the same kind of personal service available for which luxury private transportation companies were always known.

WSL works closely with clients to understand their specific needs for transportation to and from airport service in Chicago. Here are a few of the services you can request:

1. Meet and Greet Service at the Airport – A WSL representative (or a few if needed) is available to meet you or your group in baggage claim at the airport – look for the signcard with your name. While you’re waiting for your luggage to arrive, he or she will contact your driver who is waiting in an outlying lot to head to the terminal. Then, the WSL representative helps gather your bags and guides you to waiting WSL limo, SUV, executive bus or sedan.  The meet and greet service is especially helpful for international guests, family visiting from out of town and business guests.
2. Spanish-Speaking Drivers – Do you have family or business guests who would be more comfortable with a driver who speaks Spanish. Let us know and the dispatcher will make sure the driver assigned to your trip is conversant.
3. Private or Shared Car Service – Many time, customers welcome shared trips with other passengers headed to the same area. Other times, it makes more sense to book a vehicle just for yourself or your party. Just let WSL know your preference. We’ll make sure to reserve the type of vehicle and type of service that best meets your needs.

WSL will continue to embrace new technologies and evolve as times change to offer our customers the best service possible.

Chicago Road Construction: What is Your Time Worth?

Posted On: 12/19/2018

Summer is no longer the exclusive season for road construction in the greater Chicago area. Even now in December, it seems that everywhere you look large-scale construction zones stand in the way of you getting where you want to go.

Take a look at IDOT’s Current Road Construction Information website. You can filter the results by county, interstate, highway and lots of other parameters to learn about the projects that impact you. It’s not your imagination. Road crews are out in force all over the area.

WSL professional chauffeurs are definitely familiar with Chicago road construction. And that’s a good thing for you. Because our drivers are in the same neighborhoods and at O’Hare and Midway airports every day, they know what’s going on.

That means they know when to take a detour or let you know you may want to depart a bit earlier for your flight because delays around O’Hare are particularly bad at specific time. Our drivers share info about road construction and driving conditions with dispatchers who in turn share with other WSL drivers. It’s a team approach.

We’ve been monitoring the issues closely for a few months. In October, we posted A STATEMENT ABOUT TRAFFIC CONDITIONS AT O’HARE AIRPORT. We pointed out that “[t]his is not a WSL problem, it’s a ‘everybody driving to or from the airport’ problem. We’re all in this together, experiencing the same inconveniences and frustration.”

During this time, we’re even limiting how many reservations we accept so our customers get the time and attention they need to arrive safely.

Ride sharing services such as Uber and Lyft may actually take advantage of the situation to charge surge pricing because demand is high and drive times are long. Plus, an Uber or Lyft driver is only as good as their GPS. They do not have a team behind them with up-to-the-minute updates on construction slowdowns or accidents.

What is your time worth? A lot. Make sure you trust your critical private transportation needs to the professionals.

Time for New SUVs, What Do You Recommend?

Posted On: 12/17/2018

For the past few months, WSL has asked for your input as we make plans to update our fleet in 2019 for our suburban car service when certain vehicles are ready for retirement. You may recall in September we asked for your input on whether you prefer SUVs or sedans. Preferred

We revealed the results of the survey in October for the preferred Chicago sedan service, and SUVs were the big winner (86%) over sedans (14%). Not surprising since personal driving preferences have shifted to SUVs for the past 10 to 15 years.

Now we want to know your preferences for what type of SUV we think we should purchase. Head over the WSL’s Facebook page and tell us your SUV preference.

What’s important to you? Is it the brand? Perhaps you like a specific crossover style? Are you interested in the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle? We take your input very seriously.

Choose from Three Options

Currently, WSL is reviewing three different SUVs for our Chicago SUV limo service:

1. Lincoln Navigator – The Lincoln Navigator is a reliable and comfortable SUV. It’s popular with executives traveling to and from the airport, as well as for groups of four to six passengers. They typically feature a black leather interior, heated seats, climate controls in the back seat, a premium sound system, and outlets to charge electronic devices.
2. Cadillac Escalade – The Cadillac Escalade is luxury personified. It’s a great option for executive transportation with a spacious interior with all the amenities you’d expect from a Cadillac including a Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound system with 16 speakers and easy auxiliary audio connections for your devices.
3. Chevy Suburban – The Chevy Suburban has more of a workhorse brand, but don’t let the name fool you. This luxury SUV comes with all the bells and whistles including lots of charging outlets, plenty of comfortable seating, a big cargo space and triple-sealed doors to keep outside noises outside.

We’ll reveal the results of the survey in January. You’ll also be one of the first to know when we make our selections and add new SUVs to our fleet.

The Great Chicago Pizza Battle

Posted On: 12/10/2018

As we transport clients around with Chicagoland limo service, one thing we’ve learned for sure it that no matter where you’re from, everyone has an opinion about Chicago pizza.

Executives in town from overseas or one of the coasts know precisely what kind of ‘za they want to try while here for business.

Families visiting area relatives for a holiday are known to have heated discussions about what pizza place is on the itinerary for the week.

Even the locals – especially the locals - we zip to and from O’Hare and Midway every day know exactly what Chicago pizza is the best and why.

Deep Dish, Thick or Thin

The battle has many layers. The first clash is over crust type. Do you prefer the iconic Chicago deep-dish pizza? You definitely need a fork and knife to attack a slice of this pie, and some patience since the baking time is significant. Are you more of a middle-of-the-road crust person with a pan-style pie…not quite deep dish, definitely not thin? Or, is the crust just a means to get the toppings to your mouth, the thinner the better? You want to be able to fold that triangle slice and eat it with one hand.

Pizza Places Everywhere

Chicago really is obsessed with pizza. As we travel around the city and suburbs, there’s barely two blocks pass before we run across another pizza restaurant.

Here are a few of WSL’s favorites, in no particular order:

Lou Malnati’s – The trademark deep-dish buttercrust that is crispy on the bottom and stands up to the weight of all that mozzarella is the pizza ex-Chicagoans dream about (and possibly order frozen and shipped). With about 50 local shops, you’re sure to get the fix you need where ever you are in Chicagoland.

Pequod’s Pizza – With only two locations (Chicago and Morton Grove), this might be classified as a pizza destination. Technically, the crust isn’t deep dish. But who can resist the dough that’s fluffier by design with a ring of caramelized cheese on the edges?

Pat’s Pizzeria & Ristorante – You like thin crust? Pat’s bills itself as the number one thin crust pizza. We tend to agree. This family-owned restaurant has been around since 1950. Might be time to call WSL and book some Chicagoland limo service to get to its one location at 2679 N. Lincoln in Chicago. That way you can belly up to the pie with no worries about a food coma limiting your ability to drive home!

Tell Us What You Think and Win

We can feel your exasperation through the website! How could we have left [insert your favorite pizza place here] off our short, but thoughtful list? Head over the WSL’s Facebook page and tell us about your favorite pizza joint and why it’s the best.

You’ll automatically be entered to win a $20 WSL gift certificate!

An Early Gift: No Rate Hike for 2019

Posted On: 12/04/2018

As a matter of habit, Chicago limo rates tend to go up at the beginning of every new year. Not at WSL. Scott Simkus, WSL’s vice president of operations, is pleased to announce,

“we’re keeping the same price structure in place in 2019 for all residential locations, hotels, and most corporate locations.”

Instead of just hiking rates on an annual basis, WSL closely examines operating expenses such as insurance, fuel, maintenance and other costs to determine what is best for customers and fair for WSL.

During the evaluation, Simkus noticed that even though insurance premiums for commercial vehicles continue to rise, gas prices have remained relatively stable for the past two years. WSL is committed to providing top quality service at competitive rates. So, the company will not increase rates in 2019 for most fares.

“The loyalty of West Suburban Limousine travelers is something that can’t be replaced, and we are extremely grateful for all our new and longtime clients,” said Simkus.

“We’ve had more customer surveys submitted in 2018 than in any previous year and the feedback–both positive and instructive–is what drives change here at WSL.”

In addition, WSL will continue to insure all vehicles in its fleet for $1.5 million Travelers may not realize the minimum level of insurance for commercial vehicles is just $350,000. Taxi cabs and other smaller black car services have insurance levels as low as $350,000 to $500,000. Even international rideshare companies, such as UberX, carry policies with less than half the coverage that WSL holds.

“Safety and security are an extremely important aspect of our business,” Simkus added.

“We’ll continue to offer clean, late model luxury vehicles, experienced full-time chauffeurs, and top-of-the-line insurance coverage at competitive rates.”

Safety Tips for Traveling at Night

Posted On: 11/26/2018

Almost three million people in the United States reported experiencing one or more violent criminal victimizations during the prior six months according to results of the most recent report from the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) fielded by the U.S. Office of Justice Programs. It’s important when you're heading out alone at night to take a few extra precautions, so your name isn’t added to that list.

Under the cover of darkness, criminals can more easily target their victims and are often on the lookout for people who are distracted or appear unsure about their surroundings.

Take a few extra steps when heading out by yourself to reduce your chance of becoming a target.

1. Make Sure Your Mobile Device Is Charged

Your phone is one of your best defenses when you’re out for the evening. The flashlight function is useful if you get caught somewhere without proper lighting. And, of course, the ability to call 9-1-1 is critical. Make sure your device is fully charged before you leave your house or hotel. It’s also a good idea to invest in a quality portable charger so you can refuel your phone battery on the fly.

2. Communicate Your Plans

Always tell one or two people the who, what, when, where and how of your plans. It’s a good idea to text or call during the evening to let them know you arrived and returned home safely.

3. Walk Confidently

Attackers are looking for easy prey. Something as simple as walking with a confident stride with your head up tells criminals not to mess with you. If you need to look at your phone, stop in a well-lighted area with other people around. Place your back against a wall so you aren’t vulnerable from behind. Look up from the screen at regular intervals so you know what’s going on around you.

4. Prepare to Defend Yourself

Hold keys in your hand with one key facing forward between fingers when you walk alone. It’s an old trick, but very effective if you suddenly need to defend yourself. For about $15 you can also get a personal alarm that doubles as a keychain. Or, invest in a personal pepper spray available in the traditional format, lipstick container, and even a bracelet.

5. Safety in Numbers

Even though you are by yourself, try to stay in well-populated areas where assailants are less likely to strike. Don’t be afraid to make noise or cause a scene if you feel unsafe so others can jump in to help. If you need to separate from a crowd to walk alone to your car or residence, get your phone out and have 9-1-1 ready to go in case of emergency. You’ll only have a few seconds to react.

You Can Always Count on WSL

At WSL, we take safety very seriously. In addition to vehicle maintenance/inspections and safe driving training, our professional drivers will always make sure to see you get home and walk back in the door safely. When our customers need a Chicago car service, they also get some peace of mind for safe, comfortable travel. It’s not uncommon after a trip for people to find themselves locked out of their houses because they didn’t bring keys with them or the power is out and the garage door won’t open. WSL drivers will always stay with you until they are sure you’re safely inside.

Sedan or SUV? The Case for Old School Comfort

Posted On: 11/19/2018

In September, we conducted a poll on Facebook to find out whether readers prefer Sedans or SUVs. WSL is in the process of making some decisions about how to expand and upgrade our fleet and we value input from our customers. We weren’t shocked when the vast majority said SUVs are how they roll. We will definitely use this input as we make purchasing decisions in 2019.

But we also know there are still a number of people looking for sedan service in Chicago. Sedans may be a bit more old school, but they are a great way to get where you need to go in style and comfort.

So, we went back to our readers again to find out what sedan models fit their needs with another Facebook survey in October. A whopping 1,506 people responded, and a clear winner emerged:

• 60% favored the Lincoln MKT
• 26% favored the Lincoln Continental
• 14% favored the Cadillac XTS

WSL’s current sedan fleet is comprised of 57% Lincoln MKTs, 29% Lincoln MKSs, 7% Lincoln Continentals and 7% Cadillac XTSs. As we begin to remake our fleet going forward, we will definitely listen to our clientele and select the model that travelers prefer.

Expect to See More Lincoln MKTs

The old Lincoln Town Car was the mainstay of the limousine industry from the early 1980s through 2011 when the last model was produced. This is the car most people picture when they imagine a town car. Few sedans match the Lincoln Town Car for leg room, trunk space, and engine reliability. When it was discontinued, more than a few private car services were left wondering what to do next. WSL has been on a constant search for the ideal replacement.

The Lincoln MKT emerged as the favorite for both clients and chauffeurs. While it probably comes up a little bit short of the old Town Car in terms of overall luxury, make no mistake: it’s an outstanding vehicle. The good news is it's more fuel efficient and includes a lot more of the bells and whistles, such as USB connections in the back seat to charge electronic devices, that customers have come to expect from luxury vehicles.

The survey results reflect the appreciation of these upgrades. WSL will be sticking with the Lincoln MKT for the foreseeable future, but we are keeping an eye on the automobile industry as new products are announced to the next big thing in sedans.

5 Common Mistakes You’re Likely Making at the Airport During the Holidays

Posted On: 11/12/2018

Do you have travel plans booked for the upcoming holidays that involve a trip to O’Hare or Midway? Check out the list below to see if you’re making one or more of the five common mistakes that can turn what’s supposed to be a joyful trek into a stress-filled slog full of lines, delays and costly expenditures.

1. Checking-In at the Airport

In the age of digital everything, a surprising number of people still wait until they get to the airport to check-in at an airline’s desk or a kiosk, often waiting in line for a turn. Save time and hassle by checking in for your flight from a laptop, tablet or mobile phone. Depending on the airline, you’ll likely be able to select or change your seat assignment.

2. Picking the Wrong Transport to the Airport

No one wants to miss their flight, yet many are risking not getting to the airport on time by selecting the wrong transportation to get them to the airport. Lyft and Uber drivers are not professional chauffeurs and don’t always keep up on changes to traffic patterns and construction delays or know the tricks to get around rush hour jams. The better bet is to reserve a private car service that employs drivers who make multiple trips to O’Hare and Midway every day.

3. Always Using Carry-On luggage

Why lug around a heavy suitcase when some airlines let you check it for free (Southwest lets you check two bags at no cost) or for a small fee (Delta and American charge $25 for the first bag). You’ll be able to move more nimbly through security and around the terminal. Checking bags is especially convenient when you need to transfer quickly between connecting flights.

4. Purchase Snacks at the Airport

The laws of economics are clearly on display at the airport: high demand and a captive audience lead to very high prices. Save money and bring some snacks from home. As long as the snacks aren’t liquid, they should be safe to bring through security. Keep snacks separate and accessible because TSA officers may instruct you to pull food item out of your carry on before it goes through the X-ray machine.

5. Taking a Taxi to Your Final Destination

City cabs are notoriously expensive modes of transportation for transport from the airport. Plus, they are often dirty and, let’s be honest, smelly. Instead, skip the line and travel in style and comfort at a set price by planning ahead and reserving a private car service.

Avoid these five mistakes and you’ll arrive at your holiday celebration relaxed and fresh.

Friendsgiving in the City

Posted On: 11/05/2018

The mashup of “friends” and “Thanksgiving” has taken off in recent years. Whether you’re too far away to get together with family on the fourth Thursday in November, or you just want to spend time with your crew, “Friendsgiving” is a great way to celebrate the season.

Instead of battling the lines at the grocery store and messing up your kitchen, WSL recommends exploring one of Chicago’s historic neighborhoods. Send an Evite to your friends and lock them down on a date. Then, let someone else do the cooking and spend your extra time exploring the sites and shops in the area. It’s a no-stress way to enjoy a great meal and get ahead on your holiday shopping.

Here are a few areas we recommend:

River North

Fire up your Open Table app and make a reservation at The Kitchen at 316 N. Clark located in an old industrial space right on the Chicago River. The restaurant features locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes to reflect the season. After dinner, burn off a few calories exploring the newly renovated River Walk. Make sure to head west to see “Art on the MART,” a spectacular multi-media display on the facade of the Merchandise Mart. Head east to explore the shops on the Magnificent Mile. Amongst all the high-end retailers, you might find some wallet-friendly options at Classic Remix, 706 N. Wells, which features new and vintage décor, accessories, jewelry and gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

Andersonville

When you think Andersonville, its Swedish influences come to mind. Why not check out Svea, 5236 N. Clark St., that features lots of Swedish folk art on the walls and hearty food that would fill the belly of even the mightiest Viking. It’s cash only so make sure your friends hit the ATM before you go, or you’ll be left footing the bill. The neighborhood is filled with charming boutiques and bars. Save some room for an after-dinner hot mug of seasonal glogg at Simon’s Tavern, 5210 N. Clark St.

Logan Square

Easily one of Chicago’s trendiest neighborhoods, Logan Square is an ever-changing mix of family-friendly restaurants and nightlife. WSL has two words for you to consider when selecting a restaurant: Macanese fusion. Want to know more? Check out Fat Rice, 2957 W. Diversey Avenue. The chefs are preparing the food of Macau, a former Portuguese colony. It’s known for its arroz gordo, a tasty mix of sausage, pork, clams and prawns adorning a bed of rice. Then it’s time to test your pinball skills at the Logan Arcade, 2410 W. Fullerton Avenue. In addition to a fantastical array of arcade games, there’s a fully stocked bar to add to the fun. Blinking light not your thing? Have over to Steel Petal Press, 2312 N. Milwaukee Avenue, to check out the custom letter-press work and shop full of books, stationery, and fun gifts.

Make your Friendsgiving extra special by reserving car service in Chicago. Rely on a professional driver to transport you and your friends from the suburbs and back in a stretch limo or luxury SUV. Our luxurious limo service in Chicago is a tradition you’ll want to repeat year after year.

Contest: Special Ride Home for the Holidays for a Lucky Active Duty Military Personnel

Posted On: 11/01/2018

Coming home for the holidays is always a special time, especially when you’ve been serving your country in the armed services. After being separated from friends and family for an extended period, the prospect of home cooking and your own bed is must seem amazing.

WSL wants to make the trip home even more extraordinary for one active duty service member of the military, but we need your help.

Head over to our Facebook page and nominate yourself, a friend or a relative who currently serves in the armed forces to win a luxury limo ride home from the O’Hare or Midway airports this holiday season.

We’ll roll out our best “Red, White and Blue” carpet treatment to honor the winner.

Post your nominee by midnight on Thursday, November 29, 2018. We’ll randomly pick a winner from all the entries on Friday, November 30, 2018.

The Lucky Winner Will Receive:

• Airport limousine service in a stretch limo for up to seven friends and family to meet the armed services member upon arrival in the baggage claim area. All party members will be picked up from one location.
• Transportation in the stretch limo for the original party plus the service member back to the original point of origin.
• The airport limousine service must take place by December 31, 2018.

The entire staff at WSL is extremely grateful for those who protect our country in the armed services. Some of us have family members who currently serve, and we know how much of a sacrifice it is to be away from home and potentially in harm’s way.

Some Fun Facts You Might Not Know

• All military personnel – whatever their rank – get the same amount of annual paid time off. Military members get 30 days of paid leave per year, earned at the rate of 2.5 days per month.
• The two-week period around the end-of-year holidays is called the Christmas exodus in armed services.
• There are more than 1.3 million people currently serving in the U.S. armed services.
• There are more than 800,000 people currently serving in the U.S. armed services reserves.
• There are more than 20,000 Illinois citizens currently serving in U.S. armed services.

Proud to be on Team WSL!

Posted On: 10/29/2018

Why do so many people in the Chicago area love to wear shirts, jerseys and hats with the Cubs logo front and center? Win or lose, they feel like they are part of the team and want to show off their loyalty to the Northside Nine (or the Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls and Sox).

WSL recently rolled out a fresh look and feel for our overall brand. You may have seen it emblazoned on our new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, social media pages and website.

Now, you can expect to see the WSL logo in motion on the vests we’re providing our professional drivers and chauffeurs to wear over their shirts and ties. They are the face of WSL to our clients and we want to show off how proud we they are part of our team.

Company Pride on Display

Over the past few months, we’ve put the spotlight on some of our team members in a series of blog posts. The common theme that emerges from those interviews is how much WSL means to them:

“[WSL] is like a second family, I love everybody I work for and all my co-workers, all our drivers. More importantly, I have lots of respect for everyone and how they do their jobs.” – Jeff Wlezn, Dispatcher

“Everyone at WSL is like family, we all work together to help each other out and solve problems.” – Harb Jaber, Executive Chauffeur

“I’ve worked with a lot of the people at WSL for so many years and we have a great rapport.” – Sheryl Lesko, Special Event Coordinator

It makes sense to further that sense of belonging with branded apparel. Not only does it help our folks feel like they are part of the team, it also is a physical representation of what they are focused on every day…providing the best possible service.

Customer Connections

Branding is now such a common part of our everyday lives. Seeing our professional drivers and chauffeurs outfitted with WSL branded apparel may subconsciously provide our customers a sense of comfort that they are being served by “my limo company.”

It will be especially helpful when WSL provides on-site dispatching services for corporate clients. With just a quick look, passengers will easily be able to find their dispatcher and get on the road.

We’re proud of our team of professional drivers and chauffeurs and dispatchers and how they represent WSL to our clients. Our new branded apparel will make it easy for clients to know who is on Team WSL!

Sedan or SUV? The Results are In!

Posted On: 10/22/2018

In September, we asked readers to help guide our decisions about how to expand and upgrade our fleet of luxury vehicles in 2019.  We wanted to know if you prefer SUVs or sedans. The results of the Facebook poll are in.

Drumroll, please…respondents overwhelmingly picked SUVs (86%) over sedans (14%). 

SUVs Take You Higher

We weren’t shocked by the results. The preference for SUVs is in line with personal vehicle purchasing trends for the past 10 to 15 years. In general, the most popular choices are SUVs that drive like a car, commonly referred to as crossovers. We know that Ford is eliminating sedans from its portfolio as sales wane. It makes sense that our customers feel the same way.

Maybe it’s the influence of the Baby Boomer generation. Michelle Krebs, a senior analyst for Autotrader, an industry research firm, finds that our aging population prefers seats that are higher off the ground. It’s just easier to get in and out.

In a Detroit Free Press article, Ford U.S. sales analyst Erich Merkle seems to agree. He says ”baby boomers expanded and collapsed whole market segments as they moved through the stages of their life. Millennials will do the same.”

As Millennials start to haul kids around, they want style and versatility. SUVs fit the bill. So, why wouldn’t they want the same leg and headroom, comfort and cargo space for private car service? That’s likely one of the reasons why we see constant demand for SUV limo service.

Drivers agree…mostly

We haven’t yet polled our professional drivers about their preferences. But anecdotal evidence points to an agreement with the poll. When you drive in Chicago in the winter, all-wheel drive is useful as you plow through sleet and snow to get around semi-trucks on I-355 or I-90. And, of course, our drivers want passengers to be comfortable, so extra legroom is always a plus.

But don’t pound the nails in the coffin for sedans just yet. Drivers know luxury sedans are still a sophisticated mode of transportation, especially for business professionals who appreciate the style and old-school comfort when going from point A to B in the Chicago area. There will always be a market for sedans.

What’s Next?

As WSL carefully prepares how we upgrade our fleet of luxury vehicles, we really appreciate input from our customers. Let’s take a look at our crystal ball. WSL predicts by 2020 our fleet will be 60% SUVs, 30% sedans, 10% buses and a handful of stretch limos (we just can’t quit you).

New Poll Alert

We still need you! Head over to our Facebook page and tell us what SUV tickles your fancy. Then, add a business consultant to your resume. We take your input seriously.

License to Thrill: Developing Chauffeur Skills to Qualify to Drive in Chicago

Posted On: 10/15/2018

Did you know that to provide chauffeur service in Chicago, drivers must pass a very rigorous test to earn a special public chauffeur’s license issued by the City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protections (BACP)? It’s a pretty big deal. Any driver caught soliciting business without a license is subject to impoundment of his or her vehicle and a stiff fine. We’ve heard stories about enforcement officers checking for licenses at airports and major hotels, looking for scofflaws.

Since WSL provides Chicago chauffeur service to multiple clients on a daily basis, we take the regulation very seriously. We guarantee that every professional WSL chauffeur who provides transport in the city limits has earned the public chauffeur’s license.

Opportunity to Recognize Great Drivers

The preparation to take the public chauffeur’s license exam is quite extensive. Candidates must take and pass a special public chauffeur class in preparation for the licensing exam. Unlike drivers for ride sharing services like Uber and Lyft who just need a clean personal driving record, professional drivers must earn their certification.

WSL is very supportive of the process. It’s a great professional development opportunity for our drivers to improve their skills. We enroll top-notch drivers in the class in recognition of the excellent service they have provided customers in the suburbs. It’s an opportunity to advance their driving and leadership skills. Plus, our business in Chicago is growing and it’s important to support demand with qualified drivers.

That’s why WSL recently sponsored a public chauffer training class in the west suburbs. We even opened up enrollment to other limo companies.

Training for Safety and Service

Much of the course is focused on safety, which is especially important when driving in a crowded urban setting with cars, buses, bikes and pedestrians all striving to quickly get to their destinations.

Drivers in the program are also required to demonstrate their Chicago IQ with knowledge about popular points of interest such as airports, sporting and concert venues, business and hotel locations, as well as popular restaurants. As a passenger, you can expect your WSL professional drivers to know their way around town.

Participants also learn more about a wide range of customer service issues such as what to do if a passenger falls ill, how to handle special requests and best practices for engaging customers in conversation (or how to tell if they would prefer to ride in silence).

In addition to passing the licensing exam, drivers must pass an FBI-level background screening – including fingerprinting – and prove that they have held an Illinois driver’s license in good standing for a least one year.

So, the next time you get in a WSL private car for a trip to Chicago, you can be sure your driver has earned his or her place behind the wheel.

Celebrating the Naperville Chamber of Commerce’s 20th Anniversary

Posted On: 10/08/2018

WSL was honored to accept a plaque from the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce (NACC) on September 24 to celebrate our twentieth anniversary of membership. It’s amazing to think about how much the Naperville area has grown during that time as more urbanites move to this beautiful suburb to take advantage of a healthy business climate, thriving restaurant scene and top-notch public schools. We have certainly seen a huge jump in demand for limo service from Naperville to O’Hare and other points of interest.

Naperville is the fourth largest city in Illinois with about 147,000 residents. Add the citizens of surrounding communities like Warrenville, Lisle and Aurora and the number grows to more than 380,000, easily the most populous area in Illinois outside of Chicago. So, it makes sense that the NACC is one of the state’s largest coalitions of companies with more than 1,200 members.

Back in March, we featured an interview (Naperville limo service) with Nicki Anderson, NACC’s president & CEO for more than five years, about why chambers are important. She says

“[g]one are the days when a chamber of commerce is thought of as a good ol’ boys club. At NACC, we focus on how we provide value to our members in relevant ways. That includes offering continuing education opportunities, professional speakers and networking events. One of my favorite things to do is help establish power partnerships between members who otherwise might not have met.”

The September meeting was certainly a testament to Anderson’s vision. In addition to receiving our recognition, we were inspired to hear from three speakers from TEDxNaperville to learn more about what theme “Business Forward” means to them.

Lynne Franklin shared how after a boy threatened to kill her with a machete, she was motivated to learn everything she could about persuasion, publishing her personal research in a book titled “Getting Others to Do What You Want.”

Todd Flaming gave us a designer’s perspective on how to think differently about the world around us.

Ian Maksin is a renowned Chicago-based cellist, composer and vocalist who spoke about his passion for taking the cello outside its conventional setting.

WSL values our relationship with NACC and appreciates the organization’s drive to help us find ways to give back to the community, connect with other area businesses and on occasion, step back and reflect.

A Grand Slam Summer Outing for the WSL Team!

Posted On: 10/01/2018

Ah, September! It’s the month where it finally hits Chicagoans that summer is coming to an end. As we wind up the season of flip-flops and tank tops, it’s easy to feel a sense of melancholy. But WSL decided to relish these last days of summer and have some fun together as a team. What better way to end the summer celebration than planning a get together over Labor Day weekend?!

In what's become an annual tradition, WSL once again hosted a skybox party for our employees and employees’ friends at a Kane County Cougars versus the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers game at Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva. We got to root, root, root for our home team as the Cougars were one game away from clinching a spot in the playoffs. It's a nice way to say thanks for all the hard work everybody does here at the office.

So many of us at WSL love playing and watching baseball. The end of the summer outing included a dinner of hamburgers and deli sandwiches, a birds-eye view of the game near third base from the upper deck skybox, and a relaxing atmosphere to share cold drinks and great conversations.

Game Highlights

Some of our favorite moments from our Sunday Funday company outing included:

• Family Time: We got to witness so many families spend quality time together – we’re sure that “Sunday Funday Kids Eat Free” promo at Northwestern Medicine Field had a little to do with that. It was fun to see the kiddos running around, cheering on throughout the game and getting involved by asking questions. 
• Entertainment: In-game entertainment was provided throughout the night by the Cougars’ mascot, BirdZerk. All his wacky skits, from dancing on the field with the third baseman on the field to stealing a glove from the opposing team and throwing it over the outfield fence, we got to share plenty of good laughs
• Pitching: Pitching dominated the majority of the game, as the score stalled at 1-1 from the third inning all the way into the tenth. Needless to say, it was an unpredictable, “nail biter” worthy game which made it all the more exciting to watch.
• The Walk-Off Game Winner:  As the bases were loaded in the tenth inning, the Cougars clinched their wild card spot in the playoffs with a walk-off game win.
• Fireworks Show: Getting to witness a gorgeous five-minute post-game firework show to celebrate their big win!

Special Thank-You to the Community

What made this gathering extra special is the long-term relationship we have with the Kane County Cougars and the community of Geneva. The Fox Valley area, and Geneva specifically, has been a fertile ground for the growth of WSL. We were voted one of the top limo services earlier this year by the readership of the Kane County Chronicle and feel honored to be viewed as one of the industry leaders by our friends and clients in the region.

We look forward to working with and serving the Geneva community for years to come.

Carol Stream: Chamber President Miriam Irwey Tells Us Why It’s A Great Place to Do Business

Posted On: 09/24/2018

WSL has been in business for more than 50 years making sure clients from all over the western suburbs have reliable transportation for special events, business meetings and limo service to O’Hare and Midway.  You’ll always find us supporting local events such as the Carol Stream 4th of July parade and the Rotary Club’s annual Chili Open golf outing.

Of course, we are also a long-time member of the Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce (CSCC). In June, the organization welcomed Miriam Iwrey as their new chief executive officer. We recently sat down with Miriam to learn more about the chamber’s goals and how community members can best support each other. Based on what we heard, we’re quite sure the CSCC is in good hands.

 

WSL: Tell us about your role with the Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce?

Miriam Iwrey: My role is to continue to create a presence in the Carol Stream community with the village, business owners and manufacturers. We work hard to figure out how to best meet members’ needs which run quite a gamut.

For example, Carol Stream Chamber events include a manufacturers’ roundtable designed to act as a connector between manufacturers, so they discuss challenges, figure out ways they can partner and help each other, and how to keep operations in our community.

We also have our Women’s Business Expo coming up on September 21. That group meets on a regular basis to inspire women who run businesses – small and large – in Carol Stream to support each other and develop leadership skills.

The chamber is also working to engage with young professionals. When they look back over the years, we want them to see how the chamber helped them grow their businesses.

 

WSL: It sounds like a lot of what you do is focused on helping people make connections.

MI: Absolutely. In many ways, we are matchmakers operating in the background. We love to figure out how to get members together to start a conversation. How can they work together or refer each other for business opportunities? It’s so much more than just networking and exchanging business cards. It’s about connecting on a personal level so that the information on the business card sparks a memory of the person and why you care about what they do. People want to do business with people they like, know and trust.

 

WSL: You seem to know everyone in Carol Stream. How can chamber members take advantage of your deep connections?

MI: West Suburban Limo is a great example. John (Paraoan, WSL’s Assistant Vice-President) reached out to me to learn more about the new WoodSpring Suites that’s opening in Carol Stream at the end of September. I introduced John to the operations manager and they discussed ways WSL can help guests find a limo in Carol Stream to get to meetings, the airport or Carol Stream restaurants.

WSL: What advise do you have for people who want to get involved with the chamber for the first time?

MI: Be very open to getting outside of your comfort zone. You need to get out of the networking mind set. We work hard to get people together and make real connections. It’s all about the art of having a conversation with two people sitting together over a cup of coffee and really getting to know each other. Business flows from those connections. That’s when the magic happens.

 

WSL: We often provide private transportation for groups looking for fun things to do in the area. Do you have recommendations for how to spend a day in Carol Stream?

MI: We get calls all the time from people looking for recommendations for businesses in Carol Stream. For folks looking to have fun in Carol Stream, I recommend they call or stop by our office and tell us about their group and what they like to do. We can help plan a really special day for them in Carol Stream. It’s a really phenomenal community where everyone knows and supports each other. Carol Stream represents the best of small town USA.

Visit the Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce for the latest news and events.

Meet Jeff Wlezen: WSL Dispatcher and Human GPS

Posted On: 09/17/2018

Around the WSL office, Jeff Wlezen has earned a few nicknames: DJ (Dispatch Jesus), Human GPS and Walking Rand McNally. His amazing ability to pinpoint where drivers are and provide directions without looking at a map never ceases to amaze his co-workers.

For almost 30 years Jeff has put his gift to work at WSL, first as a driver and now as a dispatcher.

“I have so much information stored in my brain,” said Jeff. “I can tell you what long-time customer is calling just by looking at the phone number on the screen as well as his or her address.”

Jeff’s photographic memory has served him well as he strives to provide the best possible customer service. He says he’s very focused on making sure customers are picked up on time and get to their destinations safely with limo service in Chicago and the northwest suburbs.

“I really believe in the Golden Rule, ‘treat others like you would like to be treated,’” said Jeff. “I thrive on customer service.”

Technology is great, but sometimes GPS can send a driver in the wrong direction or a new subdivision hasn’t made it to mapping software yet. WSL is happy to have Jeff on hand get drivers back on track, especially if time is of the essence when a customer is taking limo service to O’Hare from the northwest suburbs.

WSL Proud

Jeff is one of many WSL employees who have been with the company for more than a quarter century. He attributes his loyalty to the company to the great working environment and people.

“[WSL] is like a second family, I love everybody I work for and all my co-workers, all our drivers,” said Jeff. “More importantly, I have lots of respect for everyone and how they do their jobs.”

When Jeff’s wife was ill last year, he suddenly took on a new role as her caregiver. He says he’s very appreciative to WSL for letting him take time off to take care of her for a few months.

“Without [WSL], I’m not sure I would have gotten through it. My work family pitched in with prayers and lots of support.”

Family Man

When he’s not at WSL, Jeff enjoys spending time with family and doing chores inside and outside the house. He loves getting together with relatives for barbeques and holiday dinners where talk inevitably turn to the old times and memories of playing games in the street as a child in Hillside.

He also has three stepdaughters and is a busy grandpa to their kids.

Jeff says he’s fortunate to have seen every Chicago team win a championship, especially his beloved Cubs.

Looking Forward

Jeff has no plans to leave WSL any time soon. He loves the feeling at the end of his shift when he knows he’s made every customer happy.

“West Suburban is the best, always is and always will be,” he said.

WSL feels the same way about Jeff!

WSL Loves Elburn!

Posted On: 09/13/2018

The tradition lives. On the third Friday in August, you can bet that WSL is participating in Elburn Days. This year, we featured two of our luxury vehicles in the parade and handed out enough candy to keep Elburn dentists busy for the next year.

Elburn has a special place in the hearts of many WSL employees who make their homes there, including our company’s owner. We also provide limo service to Elburn residents on a regular basis.

We highly recommend checking out Elburn Days for good ol’fashioned small town festival fun. It’s a throwback to another era. Mark August 16-18, 2019 on your calendar now so you don’t miss it.

The event always kicks off on Friday with a parade through downtown Elburn. We’re pretty sure the whole town turns out, along with a lot of people from St. Charles, Geneva and throughout the Fox Valley area.

The rest of the weekend always features county-fair style entertainment events you are unlikely to find anywhere else these days, including a mud volleyball tournament, truck and tractor pulls, bingo, carnival rides, hot dog eating contest, car raffle, craft sale, bags tournament and a pie baking contest. There’s also a beer garden and lots of bands performing over the course of the three-day event. You’re sure to find a fun activity for everyone in your family, no matter what their ages.

The Elburn Lions Club sponsors Elburn Days. The event is the group’s largest fundraiser to support Elburn Lions Park and Elburn Lions Charities. Check out the group’s Facebook page for a peek at the happening from this year’s event.

Sedan or SUV: Which Do You Prefer?

Posted On: 09/10/2018

WSL is always looking for ways to remain the best limo service in the Chicago area. In the past year we’ve added a new app to make it easier for customers to reserve suburban car service and rolled out a new Mercedes-Benz limo sprinter van. Now, we’re taking a close look at our fleet with an eye toward adding some new luxury vehicles in 2019. We want your input. Do you prefer SUVs or sedans?

Currently, we have a total of 25 SUVs and 75 sedans in our fleet. Over the course of a year, each vehicle logs about 100,000 miles. That’s why we implement a stringent inspection and maintenance program.

A few of the vehicles are ready for retirement. In the past we’ve purchased Lincoln Continentals, but soon discovered recent models have limited trunk space. Last April, Ford announced it is eliminating some of its most well-known cars, including sedans.

We prefer to buy American-made vehicles because the engines are more durable. Now we need to decide if we should up our suburban SUV service with the addition of more Lincoln Navigators or Cadillac Escalades. Or, should we look at the new Lincoln Aviator sedan that’s being introduced next year? Mercedes-Benz and BMW sedans are also an option, but new added tariffs could make them cost prohibitive.

Head over to our Facebook page and tell us what you think. What type of vehicle do you prefer for private suburban car service, SUV or sedan.

3 Reasons Why You Should Get Back on the Bear’s Bandwagon this Year

Posted On: 09/05/2018

The Chicago Bears will always hold a special place in our hearts. But, let’s be honest. The past few seasons have been — how can we say this nicely — challenging to watch.

This year should be different. While we don’t expect to see the Bears play in February, changes to the coaching staff and line-up promise to make a push for the playoffs a realistic goal for the 2018 season.

For loyal fans, it’s a great year to snag some tickets, and then call WSL to arrange for a car or limo service to Soldier Field. Avoid the hassle of parking and arrive safely and in style. In a few years, you’ll be able to say you were there in person when the momentum began.

• Offense - Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky’s rookie experience is behind him. This is his make-or-break season to prove he’s worth the starting spot. He has a good chance to turn the team around with the addition of Allen Robinson, Trey Burton and Taylor Gabriel to the offense.
• Defense - Roquan Smith is ready to make his pro debut with the Bears at middle linebacker. The buzz is he will provide leadership to the d-line. Leonard Floyd and Kyle Fuller have already shown what they can do.
• Coaching - Matt Nagy, the young new head coach brings fresh energy to the Bears. He’s in a great position to move the Bears from a middle-of-the pack team to a playoff bound contender.

The Vikings and Packers will continue to battle for first place in the division. For the Bears, this could be the year all the pieces come together to rise above last place in the NFC North and earn a wildcard spot for the playoffs.

WSL’s professional drivers never have a bad season. Rely on their experience to get you to and from Soldier Field on game day. Make your reservation now for car or limo service to Solider Field to cheer on your Chicago Bears.

Safety First: The Time is Not Right for Driverless Car Technology

Posted On: 08/27/2018

At WSL, we keep an eye on what’s happening in the transportation industry to make sure we’re offering our clients the innovative services they want. Driverless car technology is especially interesting because it has the potential to disrupt everything we do. Based on recent news, it appears driverless car technology is much further off than anticipated. That’s just fine with us.

Last month, Uber announced it is eliminating the jobs for 100 vehicle operators from it Advanced Technologies Group at the company’s Pittsburgh hub. The employees had been managing their pilot of self-driving cars on public roads. Safety issues caused Uber to suspend the program to rethink how vehicle operators are trained and rebuild its reputation.

Uber isn’t the only company to face issues. At a recent Automated Vehicles Symposium, Wired reports that “engineers, business buffs, urban planners, government officials, and transportation researchers grappled with how to tell the public that its wonder drug of a transportation solution will have its limitations, for a least a few decades to come.”

Focused On Safety

While we won’t be adding driverless cars to our fleet anytime soon, we will continue to make safety a priority. As the premier private transportation service in Chicagoland, for more than 50 years ago, we have a lot riding on how we train our professional chauffeurs and manage our fleet of late-model, luxury vehicles.

We’re very clear what we expect from our drivers. We invest in rigorous training that clearly spells out what they need to do before, during and after a ride. The most important expectation is that our drivers provide safe, courteous rides to and from their destinations.

We also have high expectations for our vehicles. Every sedan, limo, SUV and passenger van in our fleet is checked at least three times per year. We even perform unannounced spot checks of vehicles, often at the airport lot where chauffeurs park while waiting for client’s flight to land.

So, while we continually innovate and embrace technology when it makes sense (have you tried out our new mobile app?!), for now we’ll keep our focus on making sure our drivers and vehicles provide safe, comfortable service. Driverless car technology will take the back seat for now.

A Baker’s Dozen of Apps that Make Traveling a Little Easier

Posted On: 08/20/2018

Traveling can be a hassle if you’re not prepared. The first step after you lock-down your flight is to book your limo ride to O’Hare or limo ride to Midway so ensure you arrive in plenty of time to check bags and get through security.

We also pulled together baker’s dozen list of apps that clients tell us make traveling a little easier. We might be prejudiced, but we like #13 the best!

1. Matrix Flights – Easily compare airfare price for flights from leading travel and airline sites.
2. Air BnB – Find entire homes, apartments and private rooms for trips in the US.
3. Trivago – Prefer traditional hotels? Compare prices for all types of hotel and vacation rentals from many different online sites.
4. Packpoint – A smart packing list app that helps organize what you need based on length of travel, weather and planned activities.
5. Google Maps – Whether walking or driving, Google Maps pinpoints your current location and helps you find your way.
6. Trip Advisor – Get review and insights on what to do at your destination plus price comparisons for hotels from 200+ booking sites.
7. Trip Case – A single place to manage and organize and manage your trip itineraries.
8. Mobile Passport – Store your passport on your phone to breeze through U.S. Customs and Protection one cruise port and 25 airports. This app will be extremely useful toward the end of 2018 when passports are mandatory for flights within the U.S. for residents of states that don’t participate in the Real ID Act for their driver’s license programs
9. XE Currency - Calculate live currency and foreign exchange rates with this free app.
10. Wi-Fi Map – Find crowdsourced WiFi locations in the world’s busiest cities, airports, small towns and villages as well as remote areas.
11. Lonely Planet – The famous travel guides online with the added bonus of flight bookings, hotel accommodations and travel insurance.
12. TV Food Maps- See a restaurant you want to visit on a TV show like Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives and Man vs. Food? It’s easy to find the location of restaurants from 30+ shows on this easy-to-use app.

13. BONUS - West Suburban Limousine App

Download the app to your Android or iPhone and set-up your profile. Then you can easily reserve a private car, SUV or stretch limo well in advance. Or, with about two hours’ notice, we can generally provide a private car to your residence, O’Hare or Midway or other public venue. Waiting for your ride but wondering if you have time to respond to one more quick email? Open the app and you’ll be able to track the exact location of your private car on a map.

2018 Official State of the Company Annual Message

Posted On: 08/13/2018

Dear West Suburban Limousine Clients:

This August we celebrate our 52^nd year in business, making us one of the longest continually operating limousine companies in the Chicago market. Most family-owned businesses don’t last this long, especially in the limousine industry, where there have been many changes and challenges over the years, but still we persevere.

We wouldn’t be here without the long-standing loyalty of clients just like you. Over the past year we’ve demonstrated our appreciation with an extensive coupon and contest program, offered via email blasts, direct mail and on our company facebook page. If you haven’t already “liked” and followed our facebook page, please consider doing so. That’s where you’ll find information about special deals and contests for free limo rides. The response thus far has been fantastic.

What does the future hold? More of the same. We will continually strive to provide top notch service at competitive rates. We’re going to be adding larger cars, such as SUVs, stretch limousines, and mini-busses. We’re also going to be adding more city-certified chauffeurs, to accommodate the increased demand for Chicago trips, where the regulations are more stringent for traditional black car services such as ours, than they are here in the suburbs. We’ll also be upgrading and improving our technology, to stay current with market expectations. The business has changed much over the past five decades, but the core principles of safety, reliability and personal service will never change.

Thanks again for your loyalty! We appreciate your business.

WEST SUBURBAN LIMOUSINE MANAGEMENT

5 Gorgeous Wedding Venues in the Chicago Suburbs

Posted On: 08/06/2018

WSL loves weddings! So many brides and grooms trust us for wedding limo service in the Chicago suburbs. We get to see all the interesting places weddings are held in the area. Here’s WSL’s list of gorgeous wedding venues in the Chicago suburbs that are sure to please any bride-to-be.

1. Fabyan Villa Museum, Geneva

Frank Lloyd Wright enlarged and remodeled the home (now a museum) for Colonel George and Nelle Fabyan in 1907 when they decided to give up their Chicago residence and move to the estate permanently. The site is now on the National Register of Historic Places and is managed by the Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley. The estate features a Japanese garden, fountains and a Dutch-style windmill. It’s a beautiful backdrop for the special day.

2. Meson Sabika, Naperville

Enjoy a taste of Spain in this charming restaurant housed in an 1847 mansion that sits on a beautiful four-acre estate near downtown Naperville. The menu boasts a unique mix of cold and hot tapas, sangria, entrees and vintage wines. The venue can accommodate up to 300 seated guests in the Pavilion. The venue promises “...lushly landscaped grounds…fully visible from the towering windows that make up three sides of the venue...an ethereal cloud ceiling in the foyer… 11 cut crystal chandeliers grace the ceiling elegantly dressed with creamy sheer fabric.”

3. Emerson Creek Tearoom, Oswego

Looking to add a bit of country to your wedding? The Emerson Creek Tearoom delivers with a remodeled barn and triple peak event tent that are perfect for the big day. A stone patio with two fire pits overlooks farm fields. It’s a beautiful mix of country charm and modern-day amenities.

4. The Haight, Elgin

Located smack dab in the heart of Elgin, this converted loft/warehouse maintains architectural elements from the historic 1890 building. It’s somehow cozy and expansive at the same time to hold up to 300 guests. There are multiple levels for all the wedding day events, including the ceremony, cocktail hour, getting ready suite and reception.

5. Mayslake Peabody, Oak Brook
This stunning property features Mayslake Hall, a Tudor Revival-style mansion and Portiuncula Chapel, a replica of the original in Assisi, Italy. It’s a great venue for an intimate ceremony with seating for 62 in the chapel and up to 120 for a sit-down dinner in the event hall. One Yelp reviewer said, “[t]his venue has great warm feel to it and is very intimate while still providing space for everyone to be comfortable.”

While some couples hop on a plane to get married on a Caribbean island beach or exchange vows on the top of a mountain, you can have a destination wedding right here in the Chicago suburbs. Make sure to check out WSL’s Chicago suburbs wedding limo service to reserve your stretch limos or the brand-new Mercedes Benz Sprinter bus.

Look for Movie History from the Window of Your Private Car

Posted On: 08/01/2018

When you’re in the back seat of WSL’s comfortable limousine service in Chicago, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s happening on your mobile phone. But, so many movies are filmed in Chicago. Check out this list of famous flicks with local settings so you can spot them on your next limousine service on the Magnificent Mile, Geneva, Lincoln Park and so many other local locations.

Blues Brothers – Our favorite singing lawbreakers start out at the Joliet Correctional Center then head to Chicago for sites such as Chez Paul (actually a swanky home at 66 N. Rush St.), Wrigley Field, South Shore Cultural Center, Daley Plaza, and of course the famous car chase on Lower Wacker Drive.

Road to Perdition – This Tom Hank’s period film takes advantage of historical backdrops in Geneva, the University Club of Chicago, and Chicago’s Pullman neighborhood.

About Last Night – The original version of the film starring Demi Moore and Rob Lowe features a tour of Chicago including Grant Park, North Avenue Beach and the Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off – Ferris Bueller and his squad make their way around Chicago and the North Shore with stops at the Willis Tower, Chicago Board of Trade, Wrigley Field, Art Institute of Chicago and Glencoe Beach.

My Best Friend’s Wedding – Every trek through O’Hare puts you on the site of a key scene from this movie, as well the Fourth Presbyterian Church on E. Chestnut in Chicago, the Chicago Hilton and Towers on S. Michigan Ave., and Union Station.

The Fugitive – Harrison Ford’s Dr. Richard Kimble is falsely accused of murdering his wife and leads law enforcement on a chase through Chicago, including the Cook County Hospital and the famous St. Patrick’s Day parade on Michigan Avenue.

The Break Up – Vince Vaughn headed to his hometown to produce this film about his rocky relationship with Jennifer Aniston’s character. Recognizable Chicago locations include the Magnificent Mile and Wrigley Field.

Untouchables – Chicago looks spectacular in this famous Brian DePalma film about Eliot Ness’s pursuit of mobsters features The Rookery Building, Wrigleyville, the Michigan Avenue bridge and the Merchandise Mart all get close-ups.

The Dark Knight – Chicago is the stand-in for Gotham City in this Batman film that features 34 local locations, including the Daley Center, the Chicago Theater, Illinois Center Building and Willis Tower.

The Breakfast Club and Sixteen Candles – These John Hughes movies put the spotlight on the North Shore suburbs including Maine North High School, Niles North High School and the Baker house in Evanston.

The Hunter – Steve McQueen’s last movie might not have made a mark with the critics, but who can forget the famous chase scene that includes a car driving off Marina Towers in Chicago?

When Harry Met Sally – The majority of the movie is set in New York City, but Chicago’s cityscape looks gorgeous when the title characters inexplicably start in Hyde Park but take Lake Shore Drive from the northern suburbs as they head to the east coast.

This is just a small sampling of movies filmed in the Chicago area. So, next time you book limousine service in Chicago, check your route for sites from the big screen.

What’s your favorite Chicago-based film? Let WSL know on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

WSTL Blog

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