(Photo: Instagram/Reuters)
At the end of June, the city of Venice became the setting for one of the most talked-about social events of the year: the wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and journalist-producer Lauren Sanchez. Held on June 26, 27, and 28, 2025, the celebration featured elegant ceremonies, gondola rides, and, of course, a jaw-dropping guest list.
A Ceremony Fit for the Movies
Festivities kicked off on Thursday with an intimate reception along the Venetian canals. On Friday, the couple exchanged vows in a historic palace adorned with silver floral arrangements and candlelit tables. By Saturday, the celebration continued late into the night, bringing together over 300 guests for a ball accompanied by a live orchestra.
(Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump, daughter of US President Donald Trump: Getty Images)
Distinguished Guests
Among those in attendance were major names from American entertainment and high society. Oprah Winfrey turned heads in a wine-and-white patterned gown, while Kim Kardashian exuded elegance as she arrived by one of Venice’s iconic boats. The Jenner sisters also made an appearance: Kendall wore a flowing floral dress, and Kylie chose a vibrant yellow ensemble. Even Ivanka Trump and Orlando Bloom were spotted gliding through the canals, greeting fellow attendees and posing for photos.
(Opra Winfrey: Getty Images)
Caught Between Fascination and Criticism
Despite the glamour, the event did not go unnoticed by Venice’s residents. Local groups protested what they see as “excessive tourism,” arguing that gatherings of this scale place further strain on the already fragile local infrastructure. Environmental activists also gathered at the docks to highlight the carbon footprint of transporting hundreds of guests to such an ecologically sensitive city.
(Kim Kardashian: Getty Images)
Why Is This Wedding Newsworthy?
Beyond celebrating the union of two influential figures, the Venice event illustrates how lavish gatherings can polarize opinion: while many applaud the spectacle and relish the chance to see their idols up close, others point to the social and environmental challenges that high-profile events pose for historic destinations.
(Kendall Jenner and Kylie Jenner: Getty Images)
(US singer-songwriter Usher with American football star Tom Brady: Getty Images)
(Hollywood actor Leonardo Dicaprio: Getty Images)
(Actor Orlando Bloom: Getty Images)
(Khloe Kardashian and Kris Jenner: Getty Images)
(Corey Gamble and Kris Jenner: Getty Images)
(US tech entrepreneur Bill Gates and partner Paula Hurd: Getty Images)
(Activists protesting in Venice: Getty Images)
(Activists protesting in Venice: Getty Images)
(Jeff Bezos waving from a small motor boat: Getty Images)
(Excited onlookers spot Jeff Bezos on his way to San Giorgio island in Venice: Getty Images)
(Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos on a taxi boat in the city: Getty Images)
According to the BBC, the wedding celebrations for around 200–250 guests are expected to cost between US$20 million and more than US$50 million.
