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Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro has affirmed that the forthcoming wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez will not negatively impact the city’s inhabitants. The mayor addressed concerns surrounding the high-profile event, ensuring minimal disruption for residents of Venice, Italy.
Venice Mayor Dismisses Concerns Over Bezos-Sánchez Wedding
Recent reports suggested that the nuptials of the Amazon founder and his fiancée are slated to occur this summer in Venice, Italy. While specifics regarding the guest list and exact date remain undisclosed, it is widely understood that invitations have been dispatched.
In response to these reports, Mayor Brugnaro addressed assertions that a significant number of hotel accommodations, gondolas, and water taxis had been reserved in Venice for the celebration. He refuted claims of excessive bookings and potential city-wide disturbances.
Ensuring Respectful Celebration in Venice
“We are collaboratively working with and supporting the organizers to guarantee the event will be entirely respectful of the delicate nature and distinctive character of the city,” Brugnaro stated to People. His remarks, issued on Saturday, aimed to alleviate apprehensions about the wedding’s impact on Venice.
City Rejects “Fake News” and Disruption Claims
The city administration released a statement denouncing “numerous speculations and fake news circulating about Jeff Bezos’ wedding” as “completely unfounded.” Officials emphasized that their “utmost priority” is to maintain the city’s operational normality for everyone, ensuring “no abnormal disruption to anyone.”
Acknowledging the city’s existing warnings about over-tourism risks, authorities clarified that while approximately 200 guests are anticipated for the wedding, Venice possesses ample venue capacity to host such gatherings. They cited previous experiences accommodating large-scale events like G20 and G7 summits without significant issues.
Venice: A Regular Stage for Events
The city further conveyed to the publication, “Venice is accustomed to serving as the backdrop for events and spectacles weekly, without considerable repercussions.” This statement underscores the city’s capability to manage events of this magnitude.
Recap of Bezos and Sánchez Engagement
Bezos, 61, proposed to Sánchez, 55, a helicopter pilot and former television journalist, in May 2023. The engagement ring featured a striking 20-carat pink diamond, valued at $2.5 million.
Romantic Proposal Details Revealed
Sánchez recounted to Vogue details of the proposal, which occurred after a romantic dinner under the stars aboard Koru, their expansive three-masted megayacht, known as the world’s tallest sailing yacht. She described discovering the ring under her pillow.
“When he presented the box, I believe I momentarily lost consciousness,” she admitted, adding that the proposal was so unexpected she was already without makeup and ready for bed.
Regarding wedding plans, Sánchez noted, “We’re still contemplating the wedding. Its scale and location are still under consideration. We are in early stages of engagement!”
Sánchez on Responsibilities and Future Plans
In the interview, Sánchez addressed the responsibilities associated with marrying Bezos, currently ranked among the wealthiest individuals globally. Forbes lists his estimated net worth at $209.2 billion.
“I perceive numerous opportunities arising from this, which I embrace with seriousness,” she stated. “We function as a unified team in all endeavors.”
Sánchez also confirmed her intention to adopt her partner’s surname upon marriage. “Absolutely, 100 percent,” she affirmed, expressing anticipation about becoming Mrs. Bezos.
Engagement Party and Notable Guests
In August 2023, the couple celebrated their engagement with a party aboard Koru, hosting prominent figures including Bill Gates and Paula Hurd. Vogue reported attendees such as Oprah Winfrey, Kris Jenner, Salma Hayek Pinault, Barbra Streisand, Miranda Kerr, Suki Waterhouse, and Robert Pattinson.