Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez are currently hosting what might be dubbed the "wedding of the century" in enchanting Venice, Italy. The multi-day celebration, running from June 26 to 28, unfolds across the historic Scuola Grande della Misericordia and culminates with a grand ceremony at the Arsenale naval yard. Aides report a guest list of around 200 luminaries—Oprah Winfrey, Kim and Khloé Kardashian, Orlando Bloom, Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Brady, Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, and Bill Gates among them. Security is tight: multiple canals and pedestrian zones are closed to accommodate private jets, a fleet of water taxis, and Bezos’s $500 million superyacht, Koru, anchored offshore. Venice city officials insist the event is sustainable and minimally disruptive, with planners pledging to hire local artisans and vendors, including Murano glass gifts, flowers, gourmet pizza from a famed Neapolitan chef, and embroidered goody bags. Charitable contributions are also part of the weekend: €1 million donations to lagoon ecology (CORILA), UNESCO Venice heritage, and Venice International University have been confirmed.

Read Also: Protests Crash Bezos Wedding
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(511x0:513x2)/jeff-bezos-lauren-sanchez-wedding-1-062725-9737199de81545469c36704c3f707363.jpg)
Yet the spectacle hasn’t been without controversy. Local group “No space for Bezos” has protested overtourism and the perceived invasion of Venice by ultra-rich outsiders—a banner was even unfurled in St Mark’s Square. Supporters contend that the influx of guests and spending will bring economic benefits.
Despite Thursday’s welcome party being interrupted by a thunderstorm and guests fleeing, the festivities pressed on, including a lively foam party aboard Koru. Santos and Milan-designed couture has featured prominently: Sánchez dazzled in both a golden off‑shoulder Schiaparelli gown and a sleek black dress; Bezos suited up in classic black and later relaxed in navy polo and white jeans. Event planners Lanza & Baucina—famous for organizing celebrity nuptials like the Clooneys'—are orchestrating every detail, while Vogue is reportedly vying for exclusive coverage. The couple will exchange vows at an undisclosed June 27 ceremony.
The event’s estimated cost is between $46.5 million and $55.6 million (€40–48 million), covering private jets (90), luxury hotels (five), water taxis (30), plus security, catering, and donations. Though lavish, the couple emphasises a thoughtful approach—minimizing disruption, integrating local culture, and committing significant giving. This may be a second marriage for both Bezos and Sánchez, but it sets a new benchmark for high-fashion, high-profile destination weddings. Whether it stands as a cultural celebration or a billionaire carnival, Venice is harnessing the spotlight—and the billions.