On June 27, 2025, Jeff Bezos, the world's second-richest man, married former journalist Lauren Sánchez in a lavish ceremony with 200 guests in Venice, one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Sánchez believes Venice's charm would be a blessing for their future. But some critics view this marriage as a strategic alliance more than a romantic union.
"At the end of the day, it's likely a business transaction," said Lauren Crane, a New York–based expert on prenuptial agreements.
Marriage of extravagance
Data from Italy's Ministry of Tourism shows Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez's wedding could bring in over $1 billion in economic impact, nearly two-thirds of Venice's annual tourism revenue. In just three days, this wedding is expected to generate nearly $1 billion.
Cost of the marriage
- Historic Venue Rental (Arsenale) – Approx. $1.5M
- Scenic Outdoor Venue (San Giorgio Maggiore Park Area) – Approx. $2.5M
- Exclusive Private Location Access – Approx. $1M
- Dining at Hotels + General Meals – Around $360K
- Main Event Catering – Over $1M
- Hotel Accommodations – Nearly $900K
- Private Water Transportation – Around $270K
- Floral Arrangements – Estimated $300K
- Guest Welcome Gifts – About $40K
- Charitable Contributions – Estimated $3.5M
- Security Services – Roughly $2M
- Event Coordination Services – Around $100K
- Live Performances (Top-tier Artists) – Estimated $5M
- Design & Decor (Non-floral) – About $450K
- Attire, Styling & Makeup – Close to $1M
Wedding Gifts
Instead of traditional gifts, the couple asked the guests to donate to charitable causes.
Jeff Bezos, himself, contributed some $3.6 million to Corila, UNESCO's Venice office, and Venice International University.
However, the wedding drew backlash from some locals who feared the event would further commercialise the city and drive up costs.
Organisations like Greenpeace and local activists launched a campaign called "No Space for Bezos," voicing concerns about over-tourism and the disruption of everyday life.
Wedding Guests
The star-studded guest list featured guests like Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, Vittoria Ceretti, Sydney Sweeney, Gayle King, Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Diane von Fürstenberg, Tom Brady, and a boatload of Kardashians.
Celebrities were spotted across Venice, staying at top-tier hotels such as the Gritti Palace, the St. Regis, and the Aman.
Orlando Bloom also made an appearance shortly after his reported split with Katy Perry.
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