Castle weddings are the epitome of “fairytale romance,” with grand architecture and manicured gardens providing an exquisite backdrop for celebrations. Getting married at a French chateau, however, isn’t always feasible when it involves guests traveling in from around the world. Fortunately, Oheka Castle brings French chateau-style weddings stateside so couples can live out their dreams of a fairytale wedding without having to venture too far. We asked the Oheka Castle team – based in Huntington, New York – to share more about this historic wedding venue and what couples can expect during the wedding planning process.
GO: What makes Oheka Castle such a special wedding destination?
A: OHEKA CASTLE is beautiful historic French Chateau-style wedding and hotel with picturesque backdrops at every turn. The Castle offers only one wedding a day with a "no two brides shall meet" policy, ensuring OHEKA is a Castle the couple can call their own on their wedding day. The magnificent, palatial estate and gardens feels like Europe in America.
GO: How far in advance does a couple need to reserve a wedding date at Oheka Castle?
A: Twelve months is the norm. Six months, if dates are flexible.
GO: Are onsite wedding planners available for the wedding process?
A: OHEKA's team of experts plan the menus, wedding cake, logistics, and staffing to ensure the wedding process and day go seamlessly. For decor and day of planners, many of our wedding couples bring in their own wedding planner to work with our team. The Castle offers an approved and preferred vendor list of professionals.
GO: Are accommodations and buyouts available? What is the capacity limit?
A: The Castle boasts 34 luxurious guestrooms and suites on the upper floors of the estate. An overnight wedding suite is available on the night of each wedding. Group blocks and buyouts are available for all 34 guestrooms. A buyout of the entire estate is possible.
GO: Where do you hold your wedding ceremonies and receptions?
A: Uniquely, every wedding has two ballrooms and a dining room available to them for ceremonies, cocktail hour and receptions. During the warmer seasons, wedding ceremonies are conducted in the Formal Gardens.
GO: What are some of the amenities, incentives, and activities that the property offers a couple?
A: Couples can arrive in the morning on the day of their wedding to get dressed, have lunch, and take photos throughout the estate and gardens prior to the ceremony. Included with every wedding is a $2000 Wedding Cake with buttercream and fresh flowers, designed and prepared by Executive Pastry Chef, Daniel Andreotti. The OHK Bar at OHEKA is open for guests who may arrive early on the day of the wedding.
GO: Food is such an important element at a wedding. Tell us about your menu customization options.
A: Seasoned Executive Chef, Chris Cappello, is available to meet with the wedding couple to review menu options and discuss customization requests. In addition, the Castle offers a tasting night once month for couples to experience the presentation and taste the entrees with a special Chef selected menu.
GO: What additional services does Oheka Castle offer couples and their guests to further elevate the overall guest experience?
A: The Castle offers guests valet parking, and white-glove servers. A Bride's attendant and a Groom's attendant is provided on the day of every wedding.
Visit oheka.com for more information.