Venice, Italy – The world’s attention turned to the shimmering canals of Venice this week as Jeff Bezos, Amazon founder and the planet’s third-richest individual, tied the knot with media powerhouse Lauren Sánchez in what many are calling the “wedding of the century.”

Over three unforgettable days, the city’s iconic San Giorgio Maggiore Island played host to a celebration brimming with Hollywood royalty, global influencers, and more than a few jaw-dropping moments.

A Love Story Fit for the Ages

Bezos, 61, and Sánchez, 56, first crossed paths at an Amazon Studios event in 2016. Their romance blossomed over years, culminating in a headline-grabbing engagement in May 2023. The proposal, set against the sun-drenched cliffs of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, featured a dazzling 30-carat pink diamond ring—reportedly worth $2.5 million—hidden beneath a pillow. “When he opened the box, I was stunned,” Sánchez recalled in a recent interview.

Both bring large, blended families to their union. Bezos shares four children with ex-wife MacKenzie Scott, while Sánchez has three children from previous relationships. The couple has often spoken about their commitment to family and cherishing time together.

Venice: A Stage Set for Spectacle

From June 24 to 26, the ancient city of Venice transformed into a playground for the world’s elite. The festivities centered on San Giorgio Maggiore, a tiny island known for its breathtaking basilica and panoramic views. The city of Venice, eager to support the event, coordinated logistics for the expected 200 VIP guests—ranging from entertainment icons and tech moguls to political leaders and fashion luminaries.

With all eyes on the floating city, Venice’s luxury hotels were booked solid, and a fleet of 35-50 water taxis ferried guests to and from the festivities. Bezos’ own $500 million superyacht, Koru, anchored nearby, supported by the auxiliary yacht Abeona, which boasts its own helipad.

High Fashion, High Drama

One of the most buzzed-about elements of the celebration was Sánchez’s wedding wardrobe. Over the course of the three days, she reportedly changed into 27 different designer gowns, with couture creations from Oscar de la Renta, Dolce & Gabbana, and other global fashion houses. The collection, valued at $1.5 million, arrived in Venice by yacht, ensuring every detail was as flawless as the bride herself.

The wedding’s décor was no less spectacular. Organizers spared no expense, spending an estimated $1 million on fresh flowers alone. The total bill for the event? Sources estimate a jaw-dropping $16 million, with $3 million for the organizing team, $2 million for venue rental, and $1 million allocated for gourmet food and beverages.

Star-Studded Guest List

While the full guest list remains under wraps, insiders confirm that the world’s biggest names in entertainment, business, and politics were in attendance. Sánchez’s bachelorette party in Paris earlier this month set the tone, with Kim Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Eva Longoria, and Katy Perry among those spotted celebrating with the bride-to-be.

The Venice wedding promised even more star power, with A-list guests arriving under tight security. From champagne cruises to exclusive dinners, every moment was designed to dazzle.

Local Reactions: Celebration and Controversy

Not everyone in Venice was ready to roll out the red carpet. As the city braced for the influx of celebrities and media, some locals voiced concerns about the strain on infrastructure and the city’s delicate balance between tourism and tradition. Protest banners reading “No Space for Bezos” appeared in several neighborhoods, reflecting anxieties about the commercialization of Venice’s cultural heritage.

Still, local officials remained optimistic, highlighting the economic boost such high-profile events can bring. Estimates suggest the wedding could inject tens of millions of euros into the city’s economy through hospitality, transportation, and related services.