Couples planning a wedding have been advised that choosing a location should be one of the first things they do to prepare for the big day.

According to Post-Bulletin, the phrase "the earlier the better" applies as some venues will already be booked for dates in 2010.

Summer Saturdays are usually the first days to go, followed by Autumn weekends and then Fridays.

"I always tell brides, the sooner you know, the better it is" said Holly Diepenbrock, catering sales manager at Somerby Golf Course.

"There's no time too early to book the reception." she added.

Rivervale Barn is a brand new wedding venue and currently has some availability for wedding dates in 2009 and 2010. To check availability, please call the wedding office on 01252 413232 or email lucy@wedding-venues.co.uk

Couples may also want to consider having the wedding and reception at the same place as this can save money as well as simplifying arrangements for guests who have travelled a long way.

A Civil Wedding license has been applied for at Rivervale Barn. The local authority has advised us that this is likely to be granted by March or April 2009. We will keep you updated if there is any change.

For more information on booking a Civil Ceremony please call Hamphire County Council on 01962 846221.