Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and journalist Lauren Sánchez held their three-day wedding ceremony in Venice’s Grand canal, drawing dozens of stars and protests by local activists. Here are seven key takeaways from the billionaire’s big day.
The couple kicked off celebrations with a foam party on their $500m super yacht near the Croatian island of Unije, coinciding with Sánchez’s son Evan Whitesell’s 19th birthday. Despite the unusual start, the event was also marked by a request for no gifts, with donations instead going to causes such as the Venice International University.
Guests received goodie bags featuring sweet treats from historic Venetian pastry shop Rosa Salva and vibrant glassware from Murano specialist Laguna~B. However, the party was not without its challenges, including an anti-capitalist protest and a freak thunderstorm that forced a welcoming party to end early.
The couple’s fashion choices were also under scrutiny, with Sánchez spotted wearing an Audrey Hepburn cosplay and Kendall Jenner and Kylie Kardashian seen dressed in vintage Versace. Meanwhile, Bill Gates and a friend visited the Gallerie dell’Accademia during downtime, adding to the excitement of the three-day gala.
Despite its high-profile guests, the wedding was also marked by concerns about sustainability and respect for local culture. The event drew criticism from activists who felt that it prioritized celebrity over the city’s unique heritage.
Overall, Bezos-Sánchez’s wedding in Venice was a star-studded affair that showcased the couple’s taste for luxury and their appreciation for Italian culture. However, the event also highlighted concerns about the impact of high-profile events on local communities and the environment.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/jun/27/jeff-in-venice-seven-takeaways-from-the-bezos-sanchez-wedding