Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, and Lauren Sánchez, former television journalist, celebrated their nuptials in a grand ceremony on June 27, 2025, in Venice, Italy. The multi-day affair attracted a host of celebrities and drew both admiration and criticism for its opulence.
A Star-Studded Celebration
The wedding festivities commenced with a welcome party on June 26 at the historic Madonna dell’Orto church. Guests arrived via water taxis, setting the tone for the luxurious events to follow. The main ceremony took place on June 27 on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, a picturesque location accessible only by boat. Approximately 200 guests attended, including notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kim and Khloé Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Ivanka Trump, Tom Brady, and Orlando Bloom.
Sánchez donned a custom Dolce & Gabbana gown inspired by Sophia Loren, featuring hand-appliquéd Italian lace. Bezos complemented her attire with a classic black tuxedo. The ceremony featured a performance by Matteo Bocelli, who sang Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” adding a romantic touch to the evening.
Themed Parties and Extravagant Details
Following the ceremony, the couple hosted a series of themed events. On June 28, they organized a “Dolce Notte” pajama-themed party at Venice’s historic Arsenale, a former shipyard. Guests embraced the theme, wearing stylish sleepwear-inspired outfits. The event featured performances by Usher and DJ Cassidy, with Oprah Winfrey reportedly dancing enthusiastically. The venue was adorned with velvet banquets and plush pillows, creating an intimate yet lavish atmosphere.
The menu paid homage to Venetian cuisine, offering dishes like bigoli in anchovy sauce and baccalà alla vicentina. The couple’s attention to detail extended to transportation, with the entire fleet of water taxis in Venice reportedly booked to ferry guests between events.
Local Backlash and Environmental Concerns
Despite the grandeur, the wedding faced criticism from local residents and environmental activists. Protesters gathered with banners reading “Kisses yes, Bezos no,” expressing concerns over the impact of such lavish events on Venice’s fragile ecosystem and infrastructure. The city has long grappled with issues related to overtourism, rising housing costs, and climate-induced flooding.
In response to the backlash, Bezos donated €1 million to three environmental organizations focused on preserving Venice’s cultural heritage and lagoon habitats. However, critics labeled the donation as insufficient, accusing the couple of using the contribution as a public relations move rather than addressing the root causes of the city’s challenges.
A Wedding Reflecting Broader Debates
The Bezos-Sánchez wedding has sparked broader conversations about wealth inequality and the responsibilities of the ultra-rich. While the event showcased the couple’s ability to orchestrate a memorable celebration, it also highlighted the tensions between private luxury and public interest. As Venice continues to navigate the challenges of preserving its unique heritage amidst modern pressures, events like this wedding serve as a focal point for ongoing debates about sustainability, tourism, and the role of affluence in shaping global narratives.
