Billionaire Jeff Bezos’ Venice wedding plans met with mixed reactions

U.S. businessman Jeff Bezos (L) and his fiancée Lauren Sanchez. Photo from Sanchez's Instagram

According to Yahoo! News UK, Venice has confirmed it will host the billionaire’s wedding. While the city’s official statement did not provide a specific date, Italian media reports indicate the celebrations are set to occur between June 24 and 26.

The event has stirred debate among Venetians, with some residents expressing frustration over the impact of such lavish events on the city’s daily life, per The Guardian. Francesca, a local tour guide, voiced her concerns, saying: "It’s going to be a great big nuisance."

"I think most people are of the same opinion," she added. "We are exasperated by a whole series of problems related to overtourism and this is the umpteenth thing foisted on the city that we have to suffer."

She recalled the disruption caused by the 2014 wedding of George and Amal Clooney, pointing out that while the Clooneys were generally well-received, Bezos’ wedding is expected to bring a more invasive atmosphere.

Matteo Secchi, leader of the activist group Venessia.com, also voiced his frustrations.

"We are the city that sells itself to the highest bidder," said Secchi.

On the other hand, some residents view the event more positively. Giusi Giudice, another tour guide, emphasized Venice’s long history of hosting large events and the economic benefits that come with such high-profile weddings.

"Are they just envious of the rich?" she said, noting that the Clooneys’ wedding was largely well-received.

Social media groups, such as Venezia Non è Disneyland, which advocates for responsible tourism in the city, have taken a more measured approach.

"We are waiting for more details before making an official comment," said an activist from the group. "But the city hosted Pope Francis [last year]. . Therefore I think we can tolerate this kind of wedding too."

Sánchez, 56, is an American journalist, author, and philanthropist who first rose to prominence as an entertainment reporter and news anchor.

In 2018, rumors of an affair between her and Bezos, 61, emerged while the Amazon founder was still married to MacKenzie Scott, 55, according to Yahoo! Finance. The National Enquirer reported that a shared passion for helicopters brought the two closer. At that time, Sánchez was married to talent agent Patrick Whitesell.

Bezos and Scott finalized their divorce in 2019, with Scott receiving a US$38.3 billion settlement in Amazon stock, according to Bloomberg. Sánchez also finalized her divorce that year. She and Bezos announced their engagement in 2023.

As of April 1, Bezos’ net worth is estimated at US$206.9 billion, making him the second-richest person in the world, according to Forbes.