A Wedding at Oheka Castle: The Epitome of Elegance in New York
When it comes to luxury wedding venues in New York, Oheka Castle stands out as one of the most prestigious and sought-after locations. Nestled on Long Island's Gold Coast, this historic estate offers a blend of European elegance and American grandeur, making it the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wedding day.
A Glimpse into History
Oheka Castle, built in 1919 by financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn, is the second-largest private residence ever built in the United States. Spanning 109,000 square feet and originally set on 443 acres, the estate epitomizes the opulence of the Gilded Age. The name "Oheka" is an acronym derived from Kahn’s full name, Otto Hermann Kahn. The castle has been meticulously restored to its former glory, retaining its historical charm while incorporating modern amenities (OHEKA Castle) (All That's Interesting).
Venue Details and Amenities
Location and Ambiance: Located at 135 West Gate Drive, Huntington, New York, Oheka Castle offers a serene and picturesque setting for weddings. The castle is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, stately fountains, and expansive lawns, providing countless opportunities for stunning wedding photographs (Tripadvisor) (Carats & Cake).
Reception and Ceremony Spaces: Oheka Castle features a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for both ceremonies and receptions. The Grand Ballroom, with its high ceilings and elegant decor, can accommodate up to 350 guests. For more intimate gatherings, the castle offers smaller, yet equally grand rooms. Outdoor ceremonies can be held in the formal gardens, offering a romantic and natural setting for exchanging vows (OHEKA Castle) (Wedding Spot).
Accommodations: The castle boasts 32 luxurious guestrooms and suites, allowing the wedding party and guests to stay on-site. Each room is uniquely designed, offering a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and access to the castle's beautiful grounds (Tripadvisor).
Dining and Catering: Oheka Castle is renowned for its culinary excellence. The in-house catering team offers a variety of customizable menus, featuring gourmet dishes prepared with the finest ingredients. The castle's restaurant, OHK Bar & Restaurant, provides an exceptional dining experience with a menu designed by executive chef Frank Monahan (OHEKA Castle) (Carats & Cake).
Additional Services: To ensure every wedding is flawless, Oheka Castle provides a comprehensive array of services. This includes a day-of coordinator, valet parking, setup and cleanup services, and a range of optional add-ons such as a lady-in-waiting for the bride and a butler for the groom. The castle's staff is dedicated to delivering impeccable service, ensuring that every detail is perfect (Wedding Spot).
Unique Features
Historic Tours: Guests can enjoy guided tours of the castle, learning about its rich history and architectural significance. These tours are a great way to entertain guests and add an educational element to the wedding experience (OHEKA Castle).
Filming Location: Oheka Castle has served as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows, including HBO's "Succession." This adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to the venue, making it an exciting choice for film and television fans (All That's Interesting).
Events and Activities: The castle hosts various events throughout the year, such as garden parties and historical tours. These activities can be a delightful addition to a wedding weekend, offering guests a unique and memorable experience(OHEKA Castle).
Planning Your Wedding at Oheka Castle
Booking and Pricing: Due to its popularity, it's advisable to book Oheka Castle well in advance. The cost of hosting a wedding at the castle varies based on the season, day of the week, and specific requirements of the event. The venue provides detailed pricing information and personalized estimates upon request (Wedding Spot).
Customization and Flexibility: Oheka Castle prides itself on its flexibility and willingness to accommodate various wedding styles and preferences. Whether you're dreaming of a grand, formal affair or a more intimate, casual celebration, the castle's team works closely with couples to bring their vision to life (OHEKA Castle) (Wedding Spot).
FAQ: Planning Your Wedding at Oheka Castle
Q: How many guests can Oheka Castle accommodate? A: Oheka Castle can accommodate up to 350 guests for a wedding reception.
Q: What types of ceremonies can be held at Oheka Castle? A: Oheka Castle offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies, including the Grand Ballroom and the formal gardens.
Q: Is overnight accommodation available at the castle? A: Yes, Oheka Castle has 32 uniquely designed guestrooms and suites for the wedding party and guests.
Q: Can we customize the menu for our wedding? A: Absolutely. The in-house catering team at Oheka Castle offers customizable menus to suit your preferences and dietary requirements.
Q: What additional services are included with the wedding package? A: The wedding package includes services such as a day-of coordinator, valet parking, setup and cleanup, and options like a lady-in-waiting for the bride and a butler for the groom.
Q: How far in advance should we book our wedding at Oheka Castle? A: Due to its high demand, it is recommended to book Oheka Castle as early as possible, preferably a year or more in advance.
Q: Are there any restrictions on decorations or music? A: Yes, Oheka Castle has some restrictions, such as no rice, birdseed, or confetti. Amplified music is allowed indoors only, and outdoor music must end by 10 PM.
Q: Can guests tour the castle during the wedding weekend? A: Yes, guided tours of the castle are available and can be arranged for guests as part of the wedding festivities.
Conclusion
Oheka Castle is more than just a wedding venue; it's a destination that offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and elegance. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and exceptional service, it provides the perfect setting for a fairytale wedding. For couples looking to create unforgettable memories in a truly magical location, Oheka Castle is an unrivaled choice.
Wedding Photographer for your Castle Wedding
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