Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez’s Star-Studded Wedding in Venice
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Emmy-winning journalist and philanthropist Lauren Sánchez tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Venice, Italy, drawing a glittering crowd of celebrities, business moguls, and close friends. The romantic setting of the historic city served as the perfect backdrop for one of the most talked-about weddings of the year.
A Love Story in the Spotlight
Jeff Bezos, the billionaire entrepreneur who founded Amazon in 1994, is one of the world’s richest individuals. Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1964, Bezos graduated from Princeton University with degrees in electrical engineering and computer science. After a stint on Wall Street, he launched Amazon from his garage, transforming it from an online bookstore into a global e-commerce and technology giant. Bezos stepped down as CEO in 2021 but remains executive chairman of Amazon’s board.
Lauren Sánchez, born in Albuquerque as well in 1969, is a former news anchor and entertainment reporter. She gained fame as a co-host on Fox’s Good Day LA and as a contributor to shows like Extra and The View. In recent years, Sánchez has focused on philanthropic efforts and aviation, founding Black Ops Aviation, one of the first female-owned aerial film and production companies.
Their relationship became public in 2019, shortly after Bezos announced his divorce from his wife of 25 years, MacKenzie Scott. Since then, Bezos and Sánchez have been seen together at high-profile events and have collaborated on various philanthropic and space-related initiatives, including Bezos’ aerospace company, Blue Origin.
Venetian Vows and Celebrity Guests
The wedding took place in a private palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal. The couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony followed by a grand reception that featured a blend of Venetian tradition and modern elegance.
Notable guests included:
– Leonardo DiCaprio, a longtime friend of the couple
– Oprah Winfrey, who has interviewed both Bezos and Sánchez
– Bill Gates, fellow tech billionaire and philanthropist
– Beyoncé and Jay-Z, who reportedly performed a private set
– Ari Emanuel, CEO of Endeavor and close friend of Bezos
– Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian, representing the Kardashian-Jenner family
The reception featured gourmet Italian cuisine, live classical music, and a fireworks display over the canal. Guests were ferried to the venue in traditional gondolas and luxury water taxis, adding to the romantic ambiance.
Highlights from the Celebration
– The bride wore a custom couture gown by Valentino, featuring intricate lace and a flowing train.
– Bezos opted for a classic tuxedo designed by Tom Ford.
– The couple’s first dance was to a live performance of “At Last” by Etta James.
– A Venetian glass artist created custom keepsakes for each guest.
– The wedding cake was a towering creation inspired by Renaissance art.
A Shared Future
Bezos and Sánchez have expressed their shared passion for space exploration, climate change initiatives, and philanthropy. Sánchez is set to lead an all-female space mission aboard Blue Origin in the near future, a project she and Bezos have championed as a milestone for women in aerospace.
As they embark on this new chapter together, the couple continues to be a powerful force in both business and humanitarian efforts. Their wedding in Venice was not only a celebration of love but also a reflection of their shared values, global influence, and commitment to making a difference.
For photos and more details, visit the full article on CBS News.