Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, and Emmy-winning journalist Lauren Sánchez exchanged vows in a grand ceremony on June 27, 2025, in Venice, Italy. The multi-day celebration attracted a host of celebrities and was marked by both opulence and controversy.
The couple’s nuptials took place on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, with the historic Church of San Giorgio Maggiore serving as the backdrop. Sánchez wore a custom Dolce & Gabbana gown, while Bezos donned a classic tuxedo. The event was orchestrated by renowned planners Lanza & Baucina, known for their discretion and attention to detail.
The guest list read like a who’s who of the entertainment and business worlds. Attendees included Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kim and Khloé Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Orlando Bloom, Tom Brady, and Queen Rania of Jordan, among others. The festivities spanned several days, featuring themed parties such as a “Great Gatsby” cocktail event and a pajama-themed soirée.
Despite the glamour, the wedding faced criticism from local residents and activists. Protests erupted over concerns about the commercialization of Venice and the impact of such extravagant events on the city’s infrastructure and culture. Demonstrators, under the banner “No Space for Bezos,” voiced their disapproval through various means, including symbolic displays and public gatherings.
In response to the backlash, Bezos and Sánchez made efforts to mitigate the event’s impact. They requested guests to forgo traditional gifts, instead encouraging donations to local organizations focused on preserving Venice’s cultural and environmental heritage. Additionally, they prioritized hiring local vendors and artisans for the wedding services.
The couple’s relationship began publicly in 2019, following their respective divorces. They became engaged in May 2023, with Bezos proposing aboard his $500 million yacht, Koru. Their wedding in Venice stands as a testament to their shared journey and commitment, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most romantic cities.