As billionaire Jeff Bezos and his fiancée, journalist and helicopter pilot Lauren Sánchez, prepare to tie the knot in Venice, Italy, their upcoming wedding is already shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events of the year. But they're far from the first A-listers to fall under Italy's romantic spell. From Lake Como to Portofino, Italy has long been the backdrop of Hollywood's most glamorous weddings.
So, what makes Italy the spot for star-studded vows? Let's dive into the celebrity history and take a peek at what's going down at the Bezos-Sánchez bash.
Italy: The Celebrity Wedding Capital
Italy has the magic formula, dramatic coastlines, historic cathedrals, Renaissance palazzos, and villas that drip with old-world charm. Add some Amalfi sunsets and a few spritzes, and you'll get the ultimate wedding mood board.
Let's rewind to some of the biggest A-list "I dos":
Bezos and Sánchez's Venetian Dream
Bezos and Sánchez are stepping into that same storied tradition with their ultra-modern, ultra-exclusive twist. The couple is expected to exchange vows between June 26 and 28, with festivities rumored to span a three-day extravaganza. While the complete guest list remains hush-hush, sources predict a glamorous crowd of around 200 A-listers, including Oprah, Mick Jagger, Eva Longoria, and Sánchez's close friend Kim Kardashian.
Where It's Happening (Maybe)
Details are being kept tightly under wraps, but whispers suggest potential venues include Lido Beach, the Island of San Giorgio, the Scuola Grande della Misericordia, and the Arsenale (confirmed last-minute switch).
The final pick, The Arsenale, is a stunning historic shipyard removed from the usual tourist fray. It is a chic choice that helps sidestep logistical chaos and Venice's summer crush.
As dreamy as it all sounds, not everyone is thrilled. Venice locals have launched a protest under the banner "No Space for Bezos," voicing concerns about overtourism and the strain events like this put on an already fragile city.
To their credit, Bezos and Sánchez have responded with diplomacy. They've reportedly hired local Venetian artisans and workers, encouraged guests to donate to Venice-based charities, and donated themselves to various local causes.
While it's not a perfect fix, it's a gesture that acknowledges and respects the city and country as a whole.
A Hyper-Curated Wedding Weekend
Bezos and Sánchez already kicked things off with a foam party aboard the $500M yacht Koru, complete with kissing-in-the-suds photo ops that scream "newlywed energy." And yes, the pre-wedding glow is real.
Event planners Lanza and Baucina, the firm behind George and Amal Clooney's wedding, are pulling the strings again, so expect precision, privacy, and understated elegance.
Although Jeff and Lauren are the latest celebrities to say "yes" to Italy, they definitely won't be the last. Whether it's the call of Venice's canals, Lake Como's serenity, or the seaside drama of Portofino, Italy's grip on celebrity weddings is as strong as ever.