VENICE, Italy — On Saturday, hundreds gathered in Venice to voice their opposition towards the grand wedding celebration of Jeff Bezos and his bride, Lauren Sanchez Bezos. The festivities, stretching over three days, attracted numerous celebrities and sparked criticism among local residents.
The couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony on Friday at the secluded San Giorgio Island, with 200 celebrity guests in attendance. Jeff Bezos, the world’s fourth-richest individual, faced backlash from many Venetians who view his lavish celebration as a symbol of exploitation in a city grappling with challenges like overtourism, high living costs, and climate-related risks such as flooding.
As the couple geared up for their final evening party, hundreds of Venetians and activists from across Italy filled the narrow streets with banners proclaiming messages such as “Kisses Yes, Bezos No” and “No Bezos, No War.” Critics see the glamorous affair as an insult to Venice’s delicate ecosystem and to its residents, who are overburdened by swarms of tourists year-round.
“We are here to disrupt the plans of these affluent people, as they amass wealth by exploiting others, while conditions in this city remain unstable,” declared Martina Vergnano, a participating protester. Organizers suggested that their protest compelled a shift of Saturday’s festivities to the Arsenale, a former medieval shipyard.
In an effort to contribute positively, Bezos donated 1 million euros ($1.17 million) each to three organizations focused on preserving Venice’s environment. Despite this gesture, many critics dismissed it as a mere effort to placate disgruntled locals. “We desire a liberated Venice, cared for by and for its citizens. These donations are insignificant and merely an attempt to soothe Bezos’ conscience,” remarked Flavio Cogo, another Venetian activist at the demonstration.
Until Lauren Sanchez Bezos took to Instagram with a picture in a stunning white gown next to Bezos in a tuxedo, the details of the exclusive ceremony were shrouded in mystery. The event drew a mix of athletes, celebrities, influencers, and business leaders, celebrating not just their love but their overwhelming wealth as well. Distinguished guests included Oprah Winfrey, NFL superstar Tom Brady, Hollywood figures Leonardo DiCaprio and Orlando Bloom, philanthropist Bill Gates, alongside well-known figures like the Kardashian-Jenner family. Ivanka Trump, her husband Jared Kushner, and their three kids were also part of the glamorous occasion.
During their stay, Bezos and his bride resided at the Aman Venice hotel, a picturesque location on the Grand Canal, where the couple mingled with the press after their ceremony. Protesters, meanwhile, were vocal about their concerns, as evidenced by signs like, “The planet is burning but don’t worry, here’s the list of the 27 dresses of Lauren Sánchez,” referencing her extravagant wedding wardrobe. This included a Dolce & Gabbana mermaid-style wedding dress and ensembles from Italian designers such as Schiaparelli and Bottega Veneta.
Despite the unrest, the local administration defended the nuptials, aligning them with Venice’s longstanding tradition of hospitality that spans welcoming popes, emperors, and visitors from all walks of life for centuries.