Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Set to Marry in Lavish Venice Ceremony Today

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and media personality Lauren Sanchez are expected to tie the knot today in an extravagant ceremony on a private island in Venice, Italy, marking the highlight of a star-studded, three-day celebration.

The couple, staying at the ultra-luxurious Aman Hotel—a 16th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal—kicked off their festivities on Thursday. A-list guests include Oprah Winfrey, Kim and Khloe Kardashian, Orlando Bloom, Ivanka Trump, Queen Rania of Jordan, Tom Brady, and singer Usher, among others.

According to Italian media, the wedding will take place on San Giorgio Maggiore, a picturesque island across from Venice’s iconic St. Mark’s Square. The black-tie ceremony is expected to be held in a grand open-air amphitheatre, with a live performance by Matteo Bocelli, son of legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli.

Fashion, Celebrities, and Venetian Elegance

Lauren Sanchez is said to have prepared 27 outfit changes for the celebration, and fashion heavyweight Domenico Dolce of Dolce & Gabbana was spotted at the Aman Hotel—likely for final fittings. The couple’s guest list also lunched at the elegant Villa Baslini on Thursday, located on the islet of San Giovanni Evangelista.

The wedding festivities will conclude Saturday with a party at Venice’s historic Arsenale, a vast shipyard complex dating back to the city’s maritime golden age.

Luxury Meets Local Heritage

In a nod to Venetian culture, Bezos and Sanchez are reportedly donating €3 million (approx. $3.5 million) to the city and supporting local artisans. Guests will receive curated party bags featuring 19th-century fishermen's biscuits from Rosa Salva, Venice’s oldest pastry shop, and handblown Murano glass from the renowned Laguna B.

Criticism and Controversy

Despite the glitz, the celebration has sparked criticism from environmental groups and local residents. At least 95 private jets were expected to land at Venice’s Marco Polo Airport for the event, raising concerns over the carbon footprint and perceived exploitation of the historic UNESCO World Heritage site.

While some locals welcome the boost to tourism and business, critics argue that the city is being used as a billionaire’s playground at a time when Venice continues to battle overtourism and environmental stress.

Bezos, 61, and Sanchez, 55, announced their engagement in 2023 and have been among the most high-profile couples in global media ever since.

Stay tuned for more updates from this high-profile wedding in the heart of Venice.