As for Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, he’s preparing to marry Lauren Sánchez. They’ll throw their ostentatious wedding on June 13, 2025. The ambitious young couple has put together an exhilarating three-day experience in Venice. They’ve extended invitations to up to 200 guests, including short lists of their celebrity friends like Oprah Winfrey, Mick Jagger, Katy Perry, and Ivanka Trump. The celebrations look to be a high-wattage, superstar-studded gala. Local people are rightfully worried that this major, high-profile world-class event will irreparably alter their day-to-day life within the ancient and historic city.
The municipality of Venice has promised locals that it is up to the task when it comes to the spotlight of high-profile, international events. Mayor Luigi Brugnaro emphasized the city’s track record holding large events. This includes the G20 Economy and G7 Justice summits, in addition to a diverse range of cultural showcases. In his opening remarks, he voiced hope to personally greet Bezos at the event.
In a bid to counter these increasing hostilities, the local government decided to act. They touted the fact that they have not over-reserved gondolas and themed water taxis for the event. With the whole world watching, they want to make sure that the city is still able to function for both residents and visitors alike during wedding celebrations.
“The organization have categorically not booked large amounts of gondolas or excessive numbers of water taxis and it is their utmost priority to make sure the city functions as normal, for all, with no abnormal disruption to anyone,” – Municipality of Venice
Though they’ve received these reassurances, many residents are taking to the streets to show their opposition. Posters and stickers with Bezos’ face and the slogan “No space for Bezos” have gone up all over the city. Protesters hung a massive banner on the bell tower of St. Mark’s. They physically crossed out Bezos’ name on the invitation to show their opposition to the incoming celebrity invasion.
The couple’s engagement took place in 2023, following Bezos’ previous marriage to MacKenzie Scott, with whom he shares four children. Sánchez of her past marriage Sánchez, who was previously married to talent agent Patrick Whitesell, has two children with him. Just as the couple gets ready to tie the knot, insiders tell us some fabulous news. Beyond all that, they’re committing to source at least 80% of their wedding provisions from local Venetian vendors—which might smooth over a few local ruffled feathers.
Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro took to twitter to share his joy at the turn of events. He was honored when he learned that Bezos had selected Venice for such an important occasion. Even that doesn’t address his main big ask — that he get the chance to meet Bezos himself, one-on-one.
“I don’t know if I will have time, or if he will, to meet and shake hands, but it’s an honor that they chose Venice,” – Luigi Brugnaro
The town took time to put public speculation and gossip regarding Lee and Turner’s wedding to rest. They rejected these claims as baseless and reaffirmed their plans to ensure a safe and orderly atmosphere during the celebration.
“The many speculations and fake news circulating about Jeff Bezos’ wedding are completely unfounded,” – Municipality of Venice
As June nears, the tension between celebration and local concerns only increases. While some residents welcome the economic opportunities that such a high-profile event may bring, others remain steadfast in their opposition to perceived disruptions to their beloved city.
