Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez officially launched their Venice wedding celebrations with a lavish welcome party on June 26, held in a picturesque cloister near the Madonna dell’Orto church.
Bezos, 61, arrived in a sleek black suit and aviators, and aided his fiancée as she stepped into a water taxi. Sánchez dazzled in an off‑the‑shoulder golden Schiaparelli gown featuring a corseted waist and baroque-inspired floral embroidery.
Highlights from the Evening:
- Celebrity guests: The turnout included Kim, Khloé, Kendall & Kylie Jenner; Oprah Winfrey; Orlando Bloom; Tom Brady; Leonardo DiCaprio; Ivanka Trump; Jared Kushner; and Diane von Fürstenberg.
- Venetian flair & responsibility: The event prioritized local vendors (80% sourced locally) and asked guests to donate to Venice charities instead of giving gifts.
- Security & protests: Police on jet skis secured waterways. Meanwhile, residents and activists protested, citing concerns over overtourism and an estimated €40–48 million cost to host the festivities.
Despite protests and scrutiny, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro emphasized that the event may drive “economic returns of millions” to Venice, through bookings and local spending
