Billionaire yacht enthusiast Jeff Bezos is set to marry glamorous TV anchor Lauren Sanchez in a wedding expected to rival their luxurious lifestyles — and the staggering cost is now coming into focus.
Last year, rumors swirled that the couple planned a $600 million ceremony in Aspen, Colorado. Bezos quickly dismissed those claims as “completely false.” Instead, insiders now say the nuptials will take place later this month in the romantic city of Venice, Italy, attracting an A-list crowd of celebrities, politicians, and global business leaders.
A Star-Studded Venetian Affair
The wedding’s scale will require heightened security measures, including street closures, monitored airspace, and a heavy police presence. Bezos’ $500 million superyacht Koru will be moored at San Basilio — the closest spot it can anchor without disturbing Venice’s fragile ecosystem — within view of the luxury Hotel Cipriani, where many guests will stay.
It’s believed that Bezos, Sanchez, and their close family members will remain on the yacht, while other VIPs will be accommodated at Cipriani and the nearby Aman hotel.
Although not officially confirmed, names rumored to be on the guest list include Orlando Bloom, Katy Perry, Kris Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Jared Kushner, and Ivanka Trump.
What’s the Price Tag? Wedding Experts Weigh In
Wedding industry experts Kunal Madan and Zoe Buke, estimate the lavish celebration could cost between $15 million and $20 million, depending on venue exclusivity, planning complexity, and celebrity attendance.
They break down where the money could go:
Entertainment: $3 Million to $5 Million
With some of the world’s most famous attendees expected, top-tier entertainment is a must. “Expect headline artists or a lineup of international talent,” Kunal said. “Costs for performers, stage and sound equipment, and licensing can add up quickly.”
Zoe speculated the couple might secure a performance from megastars like Beyoncé or Andrea Bocelli, with private shows costing upwards of $2 million.
Transport: $500,000 to $2 Million
With many friends and VIP guests flying in, the couple will likely arrange private jets, superyacht transfers, and helicopter rides. “Transport logistics for A-listers can be very expensive, especially with the added security,” Kunal explained.
Wedding Dress: $500,000 to $1 Million+
Lauren Sanchez, known for her glamorous fashion, is expected to wear custom couture with multiple outfit changes. “Couture gowns by designers like Dior or Valentino can easily cost half a million or more,” Kunal noted, adding the cost of custom suits and styling for Bezos will further boost expenses.
Floristry and Décor: $1 Million to $3 Million
The couple has reportedly booked Venice’s historic Scuola Grande della Misericordia for part of their celebrations — an exclusive venue with a $20 million price tag.
Lavish floral installations and custom décor by renowned designers such as Jeff Leatham or Preston Bailey are expected to feature prominently.
Photography and Content Creation: $250,000 to $500,000+
A team of photographers and videographers will likely capture the event, producing editorial-quality content. “They’ll want multiple photographers and videographers, including drone operators and social media content planners,” Zoe said.
Catering: $500,000 to $1 Million+
Guests will be treated to Michelin-level cuisine prepared by world-class chefs, with flown-in ingredients and premium wine pairings driving the costs.
Wedding Planner: $250,000 to $2 Million
High-profile weddings require expert planners. Zoe estimates a planner’s fee could reach $2 million, especially for a multi-day, multi-venue event with VIPs, though Kunal’s estimate is more conservative.
Wedding Favors: $200,000 to $500,000
Guests won’t leave empty-handed — expect luxurious keepsakes, possibly Hermès pieces, monogrammed gadgets, or bespoke gift sets.
A Timeline of Their Romance
Bezos and Sanchez went public with their relationship in 2019 and got engaged in May 2023. Bezos proposed with a $2.5 million diamond ring, reportedly so dazzling that Sanchez “kind of blacked out” upon seeing it.
The couple celebrated their engagement with a star-studded party at Diane von Furstenberg and Barry Diller’s Beverly Hills mansion, attended by Kim Kardashian, Robert Pattinson, and Oprah Winfrey.
Before Lauren, Bezos was married to novelist MacKenzie Scott for over a decade until their 2019 divorce. Lauren’s romantic history includes relationships with NFL players, actors, and Hollywood executives.
Their Venice wedding promises to be a dazzling blend of opulence, celebrity, and romance — and one of the most talked-about events of the year.
