Jeff Bezos didn’t just plan a dream wedding—he turned Venice into his own private red carpet. The Amazon founder is set to marry Lauren Sánchez this weekend, and the guest list is stacked with Hollywood heavyweights, fashion royalty, and a few political wild cards. Think Met Gala in June… but with boats, bodyguards, and billionaires.
Names like Leonardo DiCaprio, Kim Kardashian, Mick Jagger, and Oprah Winfrey have already touched down. And yes, the Kardashians showed up in full fashion armor: Kim in Balenciaga, Khloé in a curve-hugging leopard print, and Kris Jenner proving she’s still the moment.
Even Orlando Bloom made an appearance—smiling and chatting with Kim, setting off a wave of speculation online that the newly single actor is fully leaning into his solo era at one of the most high-profile parties of the year.
See also: Jeff Bezos Is Getting Married in Venice—And Locals Are Fighting Back
Inside Jeff Bezos’s Pre-Wedding Cocktail Party
While paparazzi stalked the canals, Jeff and Lauren hosted an invite-only cocktail soirée at the ultra-luxe Aman Hotel—rented out in its entirety for just 48 guests. Private gardens were decked out with tents, lights, and ex-Marines guarding every entrance. You know, just the usual rehearsal dinner vibes.
See also: Venice Begins Charging Entrance Fee for Tourists
Elton John and Lady Gaga Are Set to Perform (Because, Obviously)
In case the guest list wasn’t A-list enough, the wedding soundtrack will reportedly be handled by none other than Elton John and Lady Gaga. Elton—who lives just minutes away by boat—will reportedly earn over £1 million to perform. Gaga, his close friend and godmother to his children, is expected to join him on stage, with rumors swirling that they might duet on “Hello Hello” or “Sine From Above.”
Usher has also been spotted at the Gritti Palace, leading some to believe he may be part of the weekend’s surprise performances.
See also: Jeff Bezos’ Wedding Could Turn the City Into Chaos As Venetians Fear Terrorist Attack
The Backlash? Also Very Public
Not everyone is raising a glass. Environmental groups like Greenpeace have protested outside the event with signs reading: “If you can rent Venice for your wedding, you can pay more taxes.” Their critique? While Bezos reportedly pays a 1.1% tax rate, he’s spending over $10 million on this three-day spectacle.
Local officials have defended the economic impact—estimating the wedding will bring in up to $34 million for Venetian businesses—but not everyone’s convinced. Some locals are planning symbolic protests, including filling the canals with inflatable crocodiles to photobomb the wedding guests.
This article was originally written in Spanish by Nayely Aguilera in Cultura Colectiva.
