Getting married at Oheka Castle is the epitome of elegance and luxury. Known for its stunning architecture and breathtaking landscapes, this Long Island landmark has become one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the country. Couples who dream of a fairy-tale wedding often choose Oheka Castle as their destination, but along with the grandeur comes the question: What is the cost of hosting a wedding at Oheka Castle?
Weddings at Oheka Castle can be as extravagant as you wish, but it’s essential to understand the pricing structure and what to expect before planning such an event. From the venue rental fee to the cost of catering, entertainment, and decor, the overall expense can vary greatly depending on the type of wedding you’re envisioning. In this guide, we’ll dive into the factors that influence the cost of an Oheka Castle wedding, what to expect, and how to plan for your dream event.
Oheka Castle Wedding Venue Bio Profile
| Venue Name | Oheka Castle |
|---|---|
| Location | Huntington, Long Island, New York |
| Built | 1919 |
| Architectural Style | French-style château |
| Event Capacity | Up to 400 guests |
| Notable Features | Grand ballroom, formal gardens, elegant suites |
| Average Wedding Cost | $100,000 to $300,000+ |
| Famous Weddings Hosted | Kevin Jonas, Joey Fatone |
A Closer Look at Oheka Castle
Oheka Castle is not just a venue—it’s a historical landmark that offers an unrivaled blend of elegance, history, and luxury. Located in Huntington, Long Island, the castle was built in 1919 by financier Otto Hermann Kahn and stands as one of the largest private residences in the United States. The château-style architecture and lush formal gardens make it a picture-perfect backdrop for any wedding ceremony and reception.
The castle boasts a variety of event spaces, including the Grand Ballroom, terraces overlooking the gardens, and multiple luxurious indoor venues. Each space offers a unique charm, allowing couples to customize their wedding day experience. For guests, the experience of attending a wedding at Oheka Castle is just as magical as it is for the couple, given the venue’s opulent atmosphere and sweeping views.
Oheka Castle Wedding Cost Breakdown
The total cost of a wedding at Oheka Castle can vary depending on the scale of your event, the time of year, and the specific choices you make regarding services and amenities. Generally, couples can expect the overall cost to start around $100,000 and go upward, with some lavish weddings exceeding $300,000. Here’s a breakdown of the main factors contributing to the cost.
1. Venue Rental Fee
The venue rental fee is one of the most significant components of the total cost when hosting a wedding at Oheka Castle. This fee can fluctuate depending on the day of the week, the season, and the specific spaces you wish to use for your event. Weekday weddings are typically less expensive than weekend weddings, and the cost can also rise during peak wedding season (typically May through October).
For a weekend wedding during the peak season, couples should expect to pay anywhere between $10,000 and $25,000 for the venue rental. This fee includes access to various event spaces within the castle, such as the gardens, terraces, and the Grand Ballroom.
2. Catering and Beverages
Oheka Castle offers in-house catering, which provides gourmet cuisine prepared by their talented chefs. The cost of catering is typically calculated per person, and the price per guest can range from $250 to $500, depending on your chosen menu and the level of customization.
Couples can select from a variety of catering packages, ranging from plated dinners to buffet-style meals, with options to tailor the menu to fit specific dietary preferences or cultural traditions. Alcohol is another significant expense, with open bar packages typically starting around $75 per person. The final cost of catering and beverages will depend on your guest count and the level of luxury you wish to provide for your guests.
3. Event Planning and Coordination
While Oheka Castle provides a luxurious venue, couples often opt to hire professional wedding planners to ensure that every detail is perfectly executed. Event planning services can add between $5,000 and $15,000 to the overall wedding budget, depending on the complexity and scope of the event.
Many wedding planners who specialize in high-end venues like Oheka Castle are familiar with the logistics and protocols of planning events in such prestigious settings. Hiring a planner with experience at Oheka Castle can help ensure that the day runs smoothly, from managing vendor schedules to coordinating the ceremony and reception timeline.
4. Decor and Floral Arrangements
The castle’s breathtaking interiors and lush gardens provide a stunning backdrop for any wedding, but many couples still choose to elevate the décor with custom floral arrangements, lighting, and other decorative touches. Floral arrangements alone can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the scale and intricacy of the design.
Couples often invest in high-end floral displays, custom lighting, elegant drapery, and luxurious table settings to enhance the castle’s natural beauty and create an unforgettable atmosphere for their guests. Décor expenses will vary based on personal preferences, but it’s important to allocate a substantial portion of the budget for these enhancements if you wish to achieve a highly customized look.
5. Entertainment
Entertainment is another key component of an Oheka Castle wedding. Whether you prefer a live band, a DJ, or even a string quartet during your ceremony, the cost for professional entertainment can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the performers you select.
Many couples also choose to enhance the guest experience with additional entertainment options, such as photo booths, fireworks, or specialty performers. These extras can quickly add up but also provide a memorable experience for your guests.
6. Guest Accommodations
Oheka Castle features several luxurious guest suites, perfect for accommodating the wedding couple and select guests. The cost for guest accommodations is separate from the venue rental fee and ranges between $500 and $1,500 per night, depending on the room.
Many couples choose to reserve a block of rooms at nearby hotels to accommodate their larger guest list, especially if guests are traveling from out of town. Transportation services, such as shuttle buses or limousines, are often arranged to ensure guests can easily travel between their hotel and the castle.
7. Photography and Videography
Hiring a professional photographer and videographer is essential for capturing the beauty and elegance of an Oheka Castle wedding. The cost of photography and videography packages typically ranges from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the level of experience of the photographer and the scope of the event.
Couples often choose to work with photographers who have experience shooting weddings at Oheka Castle, as they understand the venue’s best angles and lighting conditions. Professional videography adds an additional layer of storytelling, capturing moments that can be relived for years to come.
Ways to Manage and Plan for Oheka Castle Wedding Costs
Given that an Oheka Castle wedding comes with a substantial price tag, it’s important to plan accordingly. Here are a few tips to help manage the budget while still ensuring that your big day is as magical as you envision:
1. Prioritize Your Expenses
Determine which elements of the wedding are most important to you and allocate your budget accordingly. Whether it’s the catering, floral arrangements, or entertainment, focusing on what matters most to you will help guide your spending decisions.
2. Consider Off-Season Dates
Choosing an off-season date or a weekday wedding can significantly reduce the overall cost. Oheka Castle tends to have lower rental fees during the winter months and on weekdays, allowing you to host your dream wedding for a fraction of the cost of a peak-season weekend event.
3. Limit the Guest List
One of the most effective ways to manage your wedding cost is by reducing the number of guests. Since catering and beverage packages are priced per person, cutting down the guest list can result in significant savings.
4. Explore Vendor Options
While Oheka Castle provides recommended vendors, you are often allowed to bring in your own photographers, videographers, and entertainment. Research different vendors to find options that fit within your budget without sacrificing quality.
Conclusion
An Oheka Castle wedding is the definition of luxury and elegance, but with that comes a significant financial investment. The total cost of a wedding at this historic venue can easily range from $100,000 to $300,000 or more, depending on your vision and guest count. However, for couples dreaming of a fairy-tale wedding set in a castle, the experience is often well worth the price.
By carefully planning and prioritizing your budget, it’s possible to host the wedding of your dreams at Oheka Castle while managing the associated costs. With its stunning backdrop, timeless architecture, and world-class service, Oheka Castle continues to be a top choice for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience.
