When Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez tie the knot in Venice this weekend, they will join a long line of celebrities who have chosen Italy as their wedding destination. This European country has become synonymous with romance, elegance, and opulence, making it a favored backdrop for star-studded nuptials. From reality TV royalty to actual royalty, Italy has hosted some of the most extravagant weddings in recent history.
Italy’s allure as a wedding destination is undeniable. The picturesque landscapes, historic venues, and rich cultural heritage provide a stunning setting for couples looking to celebrate their love. Among the most notable weddings in Italy is that of reality star Kim Kardashian, who tied the knot with Kanye West in Florence in 2014. Their wedding was not just a personal milestone but also a media spectacle, transformed into a two-part TV special that captivated audiences worldwide.
Kim and Kanye’s wedding took place at the 16th-century fortress Forte di Belvedere, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. The couple reportedly spent around $2.8 million (approximately $4.3 million today) on the event, which featured a live performance by Andrea Bocelli as Kim walked down the aisle. This extravagant affair set a high bar for celebrity weddings in Italy.
Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker
Following in her sister’s footsteps, Kourtney Kardashian also chose Italy for her wedding to Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker in 2022. The couple exchanged vows at Villa L’Olivetta in Portofino, a stunning venue owned by Dolce & Gabbana. Their reception took place at the medieval Castello Brown, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere for their celebration.
Their wedding, dubbed “Kravis,” was another lavish affair, costing around $3.5 million (approximately $5.4 million). Like Kim and Kanye, Kourtney and Travis’s nuptials were also turned into a TV special, showcasing the glamour and romance of their Italian wedding.
George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin
From reality stars to Hollywood royalty, George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin’s wedding in Venice in 2014 was a high-profile event that captured global attention. The couple had an intimate civil ceremony at Venice City Hall, followed by a lavish celebration at the Aman Venice hotel on the Grand Canal. Clooney and Alamuddin spared no expense, covering the costs for their guests’ accommodations, poolside cocktail parties, and private water taxis throughout the multi-day event.
The estimated cost of their wedding was a staggering $13 million (around $20 million today), making it one of the most expensive celebrity weddings in history. The couple’s love story and their glamorous wedding have become a benchmark for future celebrity nuptials.
Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes
In 2006, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes chose the stunning Odeschalchi Castle in Lake Bracciano for their wedding. This 15th-century castle provided a breathtaking backdrop for their sunset ceremony, attended by A-list guests such as Will Smith, Jennifer Lopez, and David Beckham. The wedding featured a spectacular fireworks display and a performance by Andrea Bocelli, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
The total cost of their wedding was estimated to exceed $3 million (approximately $4.6 million), solidifying its place among the most memorable celebrity weddings in Italy.
Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel
Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel opted for a more intimate setting when they wed in Puglia in 2012. The couple chose the Borgo Egnazia resort, where they celebrated their love surrounded by the stunning Italian countryside. During the reception, Timberlake serenaded Biel, who wore a pink Giambattista Valli gown, adding a personal touch to their special day.
The couple’s love for Italian cuisine influenced their wedding menu, featuring mini caprese salads and Affogato, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Lady Kitty Spencer and Michael Lewis
In 2021, Lady Kitty Spencer, the niece of Princess Diana, wed Michael Lewis at Villa Aldobrandini in Frascati, just southeast of Rome. This opulent venue, which can cost up to £20,000-a-day (around $42,000), provided a regal setting for the couple’s lavish affair. Kitty wore two stunning Dolce & Gabbana designs, reportedly valued at over £2.5 million (approximately $5.25 million).
While her famous cousins, Princes William and Harry, were not in attendance, the wedding still attracted a host of celebrity guests, including actor Idris Elba and singer Pixie Lott, further cementing Italy’s status as a premier wedding destination for the elite.
As Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez prepare to say “I do” in Venice, they will undoubtedly add their names to the illustrious list of couples who have celebrated their love in Italy. With its enchanting landscapes and rich history, Italy continues to be the ultimate destination for those seeking a romantic and unforgettable wedding experience.
