Ahead of the start of one of the most opulent weddings of the year, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez have taken over the exclusive Aman Venice Hotel, and it has caused a ripple effect for tourists who had booked their rooms in advance.
The couple reportedly rented out the entire five-star property, leading to a last-minute reschedule for travelers who had made their reservations in advance.
“Guests who had previously booked [at] the hotel for Wednesday night a long time in advance were booted once Bezos rented the entire space a few months ago,” a source told Page Six.
While the Aman Venice covered relocation expenses, even comping a night and offering upgrades, not everyone was thrilled. “Some are griping that they have to pack up, take transport [Aman provided], and unpack again,” an insider added.
Security presence at the hotel has been heavy. One observer described seeing “10 or 12 security guys… doing a sweep” on Tuesday, scanning everything from cabinets to the courtyard. “They were asking people if they were staying at the hotel,” said another. The lobby scene was labeled “chaotic.”
Meanwhile, hotel staff appeared braced for impact. Spa employees, according to reports, were “harried,” preparing for several high-maintenance A-listers. “Loads of extra work” was expected, said one staffer.
Across town, the nearby St. Regis also saw heightened security. Seven Italian police officers were spotted patrolling the lobby on Tuesday. According to a witness, “They were holding people at the door… even those with luggage were asked for confirmation.”
Others with restaurant reservations were made to wait outside Gio’s, the hotel’s dining hotspot. The law enforcement presence was described as “not normal” for the St. Regis, where rooms can cost nearly $2,000 a night.
All this comes amid intensified preparations, and protests, surrounding the wedding. The couple has now arrived in Venice, looking calm and happy, with Lauren wearing a sleek black dress and stilettos, and Jeff in a black polo and white pants.