On 24/6, ABC News published a glimpse of the couple's wedding invitation. The design features illustrations of birds, feathers, butterflies, dragonflies, shooting stars, and gondoliers in Venice, Italy, the reported wedding location.

A portion of the wedding invitation of billionaire Jeff Bezos and his partner Lauren Sanchez. Photo: ABC News

A portion of the wedding invitation of billionaire Jeff Bezos and his partner Lauren Sanchez. Photo: ABC News

The invitation states that Bezos and Sanchez will make donations to local charities in their guests' names. The couple sees this as a way to honor their guests and express gratitude for their journey to Venice.

The three recipient organizations are: the UNESCO Venice Office, for the protection of the city's irreplaceable cultural heritage; the Corila organization, for the restoration of essential ecosystems; and Venice International University, to support research and education on sustainable development solutions.

Explaining their choice of Venice, the couple wrote, "This magical place has given us unforgettable memories. We hope that through these efforts and your presence, Venice continues to inspire wonder for generations to come".

Sebastiano Costa Longa, a city council member responsible for commerce and local production, told People that Bezos's decision to decline wedding gifts sends a message that gifts should go to Venice, not a billionaire.

Longa added that the couple is sending a "very important message that should be spread" to those planning weddings or events in Venice. "We are truly delighted to receive this donation to protect our fragile city," he said.

The Amazon founder and his fiancee. Photo: Film Magic

The Amazon founder and his fiancee. Photo: Film Magic

The New York Times and other international media outlets report the wedding will take place from 26/6 to 28/6 at various historical and cultural venues. According to Reuters, Luca Zaia, governor of the Veneto region, which includes Venice, estimated the wedding could cost over 55 million USD.

Around 200 to 250 notable figures are expected to attend. Some guests, including Ivanka Trump and her husband, and fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg, arrived in Venice on 24/6. Sources told People that Matteo Bocelli, son of famed singer Andrea Bocelli, will perform at the wedding.

While details remain private, reports suggest the couple will hire around 30 water taxis for guests. Mario Gasparini, a water taxi operator, told La Repubblica, "The routes are being kept secret. We only know who the passengers are and where to take them the day before the wedding".

On 14/6, the AP reported the couple would "honor Venetian culture" by sourcing the cake and other items locally. About 80% of the supplies will come from local businesses like Rosa Salva, a bakery established in the 19th century, and Laguna B, a Murano glass producer.

The wedding has faced criticism from local activists, with potential protests anticipated. Opponents argue the event will disrupt the city and exacerbate overcrowding. "No Space for Bezos" banners have appeared throughout the city.

Costa Longa stated that despite some dissent, most residents are calm due to the city's experience hosting large events. He said people are eager to welcome and support those who love Venice. "Even the security forces are accustomed to major events in Venice, so we are very confident and well-prepared," he added.

Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos attend a White House dinner in 4/2024. Video: Pagesix

Jeff Bezos, born in 1964, is an American media mogul and investor. He is known for founding and building Amazon from an online bookstore into an e-commerce giant. During his 27-year tenure, he led Amazon to become the world's largest retailer. He stepped down as CEO in 2021. According to Forbes, Bezos is the third richest person globally, with 221 billion USD, after Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg.

Lauren Sanchez, born in 1969, is an Emmy-winning Mexican-American news anchor and entertainment reporter known for shows like Good Day LA on KTTV Fox-11. Sanchez is also an actress, pilot, owner of Black Ops Aviation, and children's book author. In April, she made headlines for a near-space flight with an all-female crew, including Katy Perry. She has a son with her former partner, football player Tony Gonzalez.

The couple went public with their relationship in 2019 after Bezos announced his divorce from MacKenzie Scott. Around the same time, Sanchez separated from her husband of 13 years, Patrick Whitesell. They got engaged on the Koru yacht off the Amalfi Coast, Italy, in 8/2023. According to L'Officiel USA, Bezos proposed with a 20-carat diamond ring worth 2.5 million USD.

Phuong Thao

(according to ABC News, People)