Cover The wedding of the century between billionaire Jeff Bezos and former journalist Lauren Sanchez drew widespread attention from the international media (photo: Vogue)
The wedding of the century between billionaire Jeff Bezos and former journalist Lauren Sanchez drew widespread attention from the international media (photo: Vogue)
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Luxury, splendour and spectacle were on full display at the wedding of the world’s most powerful billionaire, Jeff Bezos.
The so-called “super wedding” of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and former journalist Lauren Sanchez unfolded over three days in late June in Venice, Italy. It brought together 200 of the richest, most famous and influential figures, transforming the occasion into a glittering showcase of the wealth and influence of the world’s top one percent.
Throughout the multi-day celebration, events moved between iconic settings, from the historic Madonna dell'Orto church to a $500 million private yacht, culminating on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, where the ceremony was held. Guests were treated to a romantic performance by Matteo Bocelli. The final evening saw a lavish pyjama party, complete with designer sleepwear, music by DJ Cassidy, and a stage crafted to resemble a floating nightclub gliding through the glistening canals of Venice.
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The wedding dress that took over social media
Lauren Sanchez’s gown, crafted by Dolce & Gabbana, was a year and a half in the making. Its inspiration stemmed from a dinner party the brand hosted in New York. “I originally wanted something modern, sexy and simple. But I realised I wanted something that would evoke an unforgettable moment,” Lauren shared in an interview.
The result was a mermaid-style gown made of exquisite Italian lace, meticulously tailored to her silhouette. The fitted waist was cinched by a corset, while the high neckline and 180 buttons running from collar to hem created an aesthetic that balanced sensuality with classic elegance. Lauren noted that the design paid homage to the high-neck gown worn by Sophia Loren in the 1958 film Houseboat, when she married Cary Grant.
Above The wedding of Jeff Bezos, currently the world’s third-richest man, and Lauren Sanchez was held in the private surrounds of San Giorgio Maggiore (photo: STYLE Magazine)
The wedding of Jeff Bezos, currently the world’s third-richest man, and Lauren Sanchez was held in the private surrounds of San Giorgio Maggiore (photo: STYLE Magazine)
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Extravagance on a breathtaking scale
The wedding of Jeff Bezos, currently the world’s third-richest man, and Lauren Sanchez was held in the private surrounds of San Giorgio Maggiore. Spanning three days (26–28 June), the celebration welcomed around 200–250 guests, including A-list celebrities, billionaires and global power players such as Bill Gates, Ivanka Trump, the Kardashian sisters, Leonardo DiCaprio and more.
Attendees didn’t merely witness the nuptials, they turned Venice into an extended red carpet. Every appearance doubled as a sartorial statement, with luxury labels at every turn. Ivanka Trump commanded attention in a coral-toned Tony Ward gown adorned with delicate floral beading, while the Kardashian sisters favoured bodycon silhouettes from Balenciaga, Dilara Findikoglu and Tamara Ralph.
Above Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump leaving their hotel ahead of the ceremony (photo: AP)
Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump leaving their hotel ahead of the ceremony (photo: AP)
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As for the bride, Lauren Sanchez didn’t just captivate in her custom-crafted Italian lace gown by Dolce & Gabbana, she also made several outfit changes across the three-day celebration. She wore looks from Schiaparelli and Alexander McQueen, paired with Manolo Blahnik or Christian Louboutin heels, and completed with jewels from Cartier or Tiffany & Co. This curated mix underscored the refined elegance and quiet authority of a woman who has moved from studio lights into the global spotlight.
Above Lauren Sanchez wears a gown by Schiaparelli (photo: Reddit)
Lauren Sanchez wears a gown by Schiaparelli (photo: Reddit)
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The estimated cost of the wedding sits between 40 and 48 million euros (around 47 to 56 million US dollars). Alongside the central ceremony, the “mega wedding” included an array of side events ranging from a foam party to a Gatsby-inspired ball. Many guests arrived days ahead via private jet, superyacht or helicopter, indulging in luxury shopping and enjoying Venice’s premier hotels. Sources suggest at least five of the city's most exclusive properties were reserved by Bezos for his guests.
Above Jeff Bezos pledged a donation of 2 million euros to Corila, an environmental research group based in Venice (photo: The New York Times)
Jeff Bezos pledged a donation of 2 million euros to Corila, an environmental research group based in Venice (photo: The New York Times)
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In a notable gesture, Jeff Bezos pledged a donation of 2 million euros to Corila, an environmental research group based in Venice. Early estimates suggest the total economic impact of the event may reach 957 million euros (over 1.1 billion USD). Of that, 896 million euros (approximately 1 billion USD) is attributed to the global media exposure it generated, while the rest reflects direct and indirect spending surrounding the event.
Behind the glitz
Beyond the dazzle, the affair has sparked heated debate among local communities and environmental advocates. Venice, increasingly seen as a playground for the global elite, is experiencing a boom in luxury real estate and a favourable tax regime that continues to lure foreign wealth. For residents, this shift has meant rising costs and a steady erasure of everyday life.
Above Venice is experiencing a boom in luxury real estate and a favourable tax regime that continues to lure foreign wealth (photo: Vogue)
Venice is experiencing a boom in luxury real estate and a favourable tax regime that continues to lure foreign wealth (photo: Vogue)
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On the evening of 26 June, around 30 to 40 activists assembled in St. Mark’s Square, carrying a banner that read “1% is destroying the world” and chanting “We are the 99%.” Giulia Cacopardo, 28, a spokesperson for the “Space Not for Bezos” campaign, remarked candidly: “The money Bezos spends does not go to the people of Venice.” Prior to the wedding, locals voiced their discontent through banners bearing slogans such as “If you can rent Venice for your wedding, you can pay more tax,” alongside images of the billionaire’s face displayed in San Marco Square.
Above Prior to the wedding, locals voiced their discontent through banners bearing slogans (photo: Getty Images)
Prior to the wedding, locals voiced their discontent through banners bearing slogans (photo: Getty Images)
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Despite public outcry, the city’s administration and numerous local businesses offered a warm welcome. Mayor Luigi Brugnaro even sent white roses to the bride and a bottle of Amarone to the groom, stating: “We are honoured to welcome Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez to Venice.”
