Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez spared no expense on their lavish wedding, transforming the celebration into a royal-level event with a price tag that dazzled even seasoned luxury watchers. From a 30-carat diamond ring worth approximately $5 million to exclusive accommodations for elite guests, the three-day extravaganza became one of the most talked-about social events of 2025.
Held between June 26-28, the couple’s official ceremony took place on San Giorgio Island, Venice, after a private legal marriage in the U.S. The guest list of 200-250 people read like a who’s who of global elites—Ivanka Trump, Kim Kardashian, the Jenner sisters, Bill Gates, Leonardo DiCaprio, Oprah Winfrey, and many more.
Originally planned for the historic Scuola Grande della Misericordia, the event moved to the Arsenale after local protests. The medieval shipyard-turned-luxury venue offered a dramatic dolce notte backdrop. Notably, Anna Wintour assisted Lauren Sanchez in selecting her bridal attire, with the bride changing into 27 different gowns over the course of the festivities.
The couple contributed €3 million to lagoon preservation efforts prior to the wedding. Over 80% of goods and services for the event were sourced locally, benefiting Venetian businesses. Guests stayed at Venice’s top five hotels, where average nightly rates were around €9,000. Ports brimmed with private yachts, and nearly 90 private jets landed at regional airports.
Transport for guests involved around 30 private water taxis, costing an estimated $270,000 over the event. Culinary excellence was overseen by Michelin-starred chef Fabrizio Mellino, with catering estimated at $1.1 million over three days. The wedding tableware featured Murano glassware, costing upwards of $200,000.
Security was tight, with 40-50 agents deployed and costs reportedly in the “several million dollar” range. According to Veneto’s governor Luca Zaia, total wedding costs likely reached $47-56 million. Italy’s tourism ministry expects a $1.12 billion economic impact from media exposure, hospitality, and related sectors. Reuters reported the event contributed approximately €957 million to Italy’s economy—around 67% of Venice’s annual tourism revenue.
For more, visit Reuters and Corriere della Sera.