Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez’s wedding in Venice has stirred up a mix of excitement and protest. The couple’s lavish celebration, dubbed by some as the "wedding of the year," attracted a host of celebrity guests and media attention, but it also sparked significant pushback from locals concerned about the impact of such high-profile events on their city.
The festivities wrapped up with a grand gala on Saturday evening. As guests prepared to arrive via water taxis from their upscale hotels, a crowd of Venetians gathered to voice their discontent. Their protests were fueled by various issues, including over-tourism, climate change, and the influence of wealth on local culture. Activists unfurled a banner reading "No Space for Bezos" from the iconic Rialto Bridge and set off colorful flares to draw attention to their cause, although some more disruptive plans were ultimately abandoned.
Bezos, who was spotted enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, seemed unfazed by the protests. When asked about them, he simply blew kisses to the cameras. The city’s deputy mayor defended the wedding, labeling the protesters as "narcissists" and emphasizing that events like this are beneficial for Venice’s economy. Simone Venturini, the city councillor for economic development, expressed hope that the wedding would encourage more couples to choose Venice as their wedding destination.
Despite the glamour surrounding the event, many locals feel the city is becoming overwhelmed by tourism. Some, like 77-year-old Roberto Zanon, face eviction due to rising rents driven by out-of-town developers. He lamented the loss of community, saying, "There are fewer and fewer Venetians here." However, he also recognized the honor of hosting such notable guests.
Others, like souvenir shop owner Leda, welcomed the attention from wealthy visitors, arguing that Venice deserves better than the low-spending tourists it often attracts. She believes that high-profile events can help elevate the city’s reputation.
Amid the festivities, Bezos reportedly donated around three million euros to local preservation efforts, a gesture that some view as a positive contribution. However, activists argue that the financial benefits of the wedding are minimal compared to his wealth.
As the wedding celebrations concluded, the city remained divided. While some embraced the glamour and potential economic boost, others worried about the long-term effects of tourism on their beloved Venice.