Fairytale Beginnings
Many have dreamed of getting married in a castle, but end up settling for something less magical.But at Oheka Castle (oheka.com), you can have a wedding as sumptuous as any that ever graced the halls of Downton Abbey. The history of this magnificent estate is rich and diverse. Located in Huntington, NY on Long Island’s Gold Coast (between NYC and the Hamptons), the property was originally home to the affluent Kahn family until it was sold in 1934. It changed hands a number of times before its current owner, Gary Melius, invested over $30 million to restore Oheka to its present state of glory.
Its 32 guestrooms and suites offer plenty of room to accommodate even a large wedding party, and its 23 private acres offer breathtaking views and room to wander. Among its amenities are an extensive in-room massage menu — ideal for relaxing away any pre-ceremony butterflies. Unlike venues that pack in as many parties as space allows, Oheka Castle is proud to host just one wedding per day, so that couples can marry in a castle all their own. Happy couples and their guests are certain to feel like royalty — thanks to the Oheka’s meticulous and intuitive service, award-winning cuisine, stunning formal gardens and design that summons both the old world charm of a French chateau and the glamor of the early 20th century when the estate first sprang to life.
Altough all weddings at Oheka Castle are par excellence, their crackerjack wedding and event staff work closely with each couple to create their very own bespoke wedding and transform the space to fit their tastes. Oheka can accommodate up to 400 guests for a sit-down dinner, while their signature “Gatsby Style” events can accommodate up to 1,000 guests for an evening of fabulous spectacle. Couples in planning mode are welcome to visit seven days a week for a sense of how Oheka can help them shape their special day, though the staff requests you call ahead for an appointment and notes that weekend appointments can fill up fast.
Experts at creating splendid events, the staff at Oheka have thought of everything. They can also host the rehearsal dinner, provide the cake, and offer florists and musicians well-versed in filling the space. The bridal suite is included for the betrothed on the night of the wedding — in addition to another room for getting ready before the ceremony and a special attendant to serve all the happy couple’s needs. They can even arrange a breakfast buffet on the morning after.
Oh, and if you’re looking for bragging rights, Oheka has been featured in arguably the greatest motion picture of all time, Citizen Kane, in addition to beloved television programs like Gossip Girl, Project Runway and Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous. They’ve welcomed a list of celebrities that could put Studio 54 to shame, including Alan Alda, President Bill Clinton and Secretary Hillary Clinton, Cameron Diaz, Jake Gyllenhaal, the Jonas Brothers, Susan Lucci, Patti Lupone, Dolly Parton, Meryl Streep, Justin Timberlake and many others. Go for a glimpse, and you’ll see why Oheka Castle has been called one of the finest wedding venues in the country.
Last modified: November 15, 2017
