The storied canals and Renaissance palazzi of Venice are set to stage what global media are calling the “wedding of the century,” as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, 61, prepares to wed journalist and licensed pilot Lauren Sánchez, 55, in a lavish three-day celebration running from June 26 to 28, 2025. The event, meticulously orchestrated by high-profile planner Lanza & Baucina (known for organizing George and Amal Clooney’s 2014 nuptials), is expected to draw some 200 to 250 illustrious guests, including celebrities, business magnates, royals, and political figures.
Details about the precise wedding venue have shifted amid logistical concerns. While insiders initially pointed to the historic Scuola Grande della Misericordia or the glamorous private island of San Giorgio Maggiore, the main festivities have since allegedly been moved to the fortified Arsenale district—a location fortified with drawbridges—for enhanced control and security. The couple’s magnificent superyacht, the $500 million Koru, is expected to glide into the lagoon to anchor offshore for the duration.
Extravagance on a Massive Scale
Venice’s Marco Polo and neighboring airports will welcome a staggering fleet of nearly 90–96 private jets, surpassing the number that attended the recent G7 summit in Canada: a total of 96 aircraft alone are expected for this one weekend. To shuttle guests, approximately 30 water taxis have been chartered, and a flotilla of mega-yachts—including Abeona, Koru’s support vessel—will dock nearby. Accommodations for VIPs have been secured in five of Venice’s top-tier luxury hotels, such as the Belmond Cipriani, Gritti Palace, Aman, Danieli, St. Regis, and others, with weekly rates reportedly reaching as high as $32,000.
Organizers have reportedly allocated a budget ranging between €40–48 million (USD $7–10 million), with some sources citing combined costs reaching as high as USD $48 million . The couple’s philanthropic leanings extend even to the event: Bezos plans to donate €1 million to Corila, the consortium dedicated to protecting Venice’s lagoon ecosystem.
Star-Studded Wedding Guest List and Entertainment
Though the official guest roster remains private, media speculation suggests attendance by high-profile celebrities, royals, and moguls: names repeatedly mentioned include Kim Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Queen Rania of Jordan, Katy Perry, Gayle King, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mick Jagger, Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner. Glamorous speculation surrounds Sánchez’s wardrobe, with rumors hinting at as many as 27 outfit changes across the weekend—potentially featuring creations by Dolce & Gabbana, Oscar de la Renta, Valentino, or Christian Dior, thanks in part to Anna Wintour’s involvement . Entertainment might boast surprise performances by acclaimed artists like Lady Gaga, Elton John, or others—though none have been officially confirmed.
Environmental and Social Uproar
While Venetian officials—including Mayor Luigi Brugnaro and regional governor Luca Zaia—maintain that the event will deliver a multi-million-euro windfall to local artisans, florists, hotels, and the tourism sector, opposition from local residents and activists is intensifying. Demonstrations led by groups such as “No Space for Bezos” and Greenpeace have emerged, citing concerns over ecological damage, tax avoidance, and escalating overtourism. Protest tactics range from banners hung over the Rialto Bridge and San Giorgio’s bell tower to planned blockades of canals using inflatables and dinghies. Intensity has ramped up, with activists pledging to “line the streets with our bodies” and “block the canals” unless their demands are heard.
Critics argue that Venice, which already sees 30 million tourists per year but is home to just 55,000 residents, cannot bear further strain in its fragile environment—especially in light of Venice’s ongoing subsidence, climate change, and recent tourism tax. Citizens have argued that city funds should focus on essential infrastructure like housing and public services rather than private spectacles .
A Flashpoint for Debate
At the heart of the controversy lies a broader cultural debate: whether Venice should continue opening its city to ultra-wealthy individuals seeking extravagant, privatized experiences. Supporters suggest the infusion of capital and global attention are beneficial, while detractors say such events commodify and degrade Venice’s unique cultural heritage—comparing the affair to earlier opulent celebrity weddings in the city that sparked similar backlash.
Bezos, who emerged as the world’s third-wealthiest person as of mid‑2025, is no stranger to philanthropic giving. He and Sánchez have publicly committed substantial funds to environmental causes, education, and homelessness through several charitable initiatives.
What Happens Next in wedding preps?
As June 26 approaches, Venice prepares itself for both sumptuous celebrations and sizable disruptions. Security measures are reportedly tight, featuring former U.S. Marines guarding strategic access points on land and water. City officials emphasize that normal life will continue and that the wedding’s logistics have been carefully planned to minimize interruptions. Yet, with protests mounting and global eyes fixed on Venice, June 26–28 promise to be a defining moment, long after the echoes of vows have faded across the lagoon.
