Lauren Sanchez Marries Jeff Bezos in Venice Amid Protests

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez have changed their wedding venue in Venice due to security concerns and threats from activists, who planned to disrupt the celebrations by filling the canals with inflatable crocodiles. The couple will now hold their main reception at the Arsenale, a historic complex of shipyards that is harder for protesters to access.

The wedding, which is expected to take place from Thursday to Saturday, will have around 200 guests, including Kim Kardashian, Kris Jenner, and Eva Longoria, all close friends of Sanchez. The couple has opted not to receive traditional wedding gifts, instead, they will make "contributions" on behalf of their guests to support the preservation of Venice's cultural heritage, restoration of lagoon habitats, and research for sustainable solutions.

The engagement between Bezos and Sanchez took place in May 2023 aboard their superyacht, Koru, where Bezos hid the ring under Sanchez's pillow. The couple had previously celebrated their engagement with a party in Paris, attended by Katy Perry, Kim Kardashian, and more. Their relationship began in 2016 when Sanchez's ex-husband, Patrick Whitesell, introduced them at an Apple release party.

The mayor of Venice has expressed shame towards those protesting the event, while activists claim to have scored a victory. The wedding is a highly anticipated event, with the couple's philanthropic efforts and commitment to giving back to the community being a key part of their celebration. As the wedding takes place, the city of Venice will be filled with excitement and anticipation, despite the initial protests and venue change.