Billionaire Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée, Lauren Sánchez, are preparing to tie the knot this week in a multi-day wedding celebration in Venice that could carry a staggering price tag of up to $20 million. Initial estimates suggest the couple’s wedding may cost around $10 million. According to some reports, the final figure between $15 million and $20 million. With approximately 200 guests expected, that could equate to up to $100,000 per attendee.
The official ceremony will reportedly be held aboard Koru, Bezos’ $500 million luxury yacht, anchored in the Venetian lagoon. The yacht serves as the centerpiece of the celebration, while the surrounding festivities are spread across Venice over several days. San Giorgio Maggiore, a historic island in the lagoon, is among the rumoured venues secured for the celebration. Despite concerns about the event disrupting city life, planners have emphasised their commitment to respecting Venice and its residents. According to Bezos and Sánchez’s wedding planners, Lanza & Baucina Limited, 80% of the services and vendors used are local. These include the renowned pastry company Rosa Salva for guest confections and luxury glassware firm Laguna B.
Facing local protests and media scrutiny, the wedding planners issued a statement pushing back on rumors of “taking over” Venice. They clarified that only a limited number of water taxis and gondolas, about 30 of 280, have been booked, and just three or four hotels will house guests. City officials echoed these sentiments, stating the wedding would be “without any disruption whatsoever,” pointing to Venice’s experience hosting major global events like the G20 and the Venice Film Festival. Bezos and Sánchez, both previously married, announced their engagement nearly two years ago. In a November 2023 Vogue interview, Sánchez expressed her excitement about becoming “Mrs. Bezos.”
The couple’s relationship has drawn intense media attention, particularly given Bezos’ high profile. His estimated net worth reached $223.5 billion as of Monday, making him one of the world’s richest individuals, behind only Elon Musk, Larry Ellison, and Mark Zuckerberg, according to Forbes.