Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · June 27, 2025 · Entertainment

Jenna Bush Hager’s Candid Take: Why She’d ‘Hate’ Being at the Bezos-Sanchez Wedding Bash

Jenna Bush Hager made a shocking admission during her Jenna & Friends show on Thursday, admitting that she would 'hate' to be a guest at Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos' Italian wedding this week

VENICE, ITALY - THE SCENE OF A LAVISH, STAR-STUDDED WEDDING AND A FUROR OF PROTESTS

The city of canals and romance is hosting the most anticipated wedding of the year, with Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos tying the knot with his bride-to-be, Lauren Sanchez. But amidst the glamour and glitz, a storm of controversy has brewed, fueled by protests and public outcry.

In the midst of all the excitement, Jenna Bush Hager, daughter of former President George W. Bush, shared her thoughts on the nuptials during her show "Jenna & Friends" on Thursday. When asked about the wedding, she made a shocking admission: "I personally would hate to be a guest at this wedding."

They are said to have rented out a number of places in the Italian city to celebrate the lavish nuptials, as they kicked things off with a luxe welcome party on Thursday, where guests were transported by water taxi

Bush's sentiments echoed those of many Venetians who are unhappy about the couple's decision to rent out several locations in the city for their lavish celebration. The original plan was to host a huge party at Scuola Grande della Misericordia on Saturday night, but it has now been moved to another venue in the Arsenale area due to protests and concerns.

A CITY TAKEN OVER

As the big day approaches, tensions are running high in Venice. Anti-capitalist activists have been holding placards in St Mark's Square, waving signs that read "We are the 99 percent, we have the power" and "The planet burns." Local residents are worried about the impact of the wedding on their city, with some calling it an example of over-tourism and environmental neglect.

'Everybody¿s talking about it,' Jenna said during the daytime talk show. 'It¿s really public. There¿s protests in Venice, which I personally would hate'

Greenpeace activists even unfurled a massive banner in the square, featuring Jeff Bezos' face and the slogan: "If you can rent Venice for your wedding, then you can pay more tax." The message is clear: Bezos' wealth and influence should come with greater responsibility to the environment and the community.

A-List Guests Arrive

Despite the controversy, A-list guests have started arriving in Venice to celebrate the union of Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos. Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Kim Kardashian, and singer Usher are just a few of the stars who will be attending the wedding festivities.

Protests are being staged in Venice over the extravagant three-day wedding of Amazon boss Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez

Ivanka Trump stole the show on Thursday evening with her stunning designer dress from Oscar de la Renta's bridal collection. The jaw-dropping mini dress retails for $9,990 and is sold out online. Kim Kardashian opted for a curve-hugging snakeskin dress with bedazzled straps and a lace-up detailing at the bust.

The Bride-to-Be Shines

Lauren Sanchez herself was the epitome of elegance on Thursday evening, donning a shimmering gold corset that formed the bodice of her sumptuous dress. The intricate floral detailing on the skirt and modest neckline added to the overall glamour of her look. Her hair was styled in an updo, and she accessorized with dark-colored champagne pumps and diamond stud earrings.

Around 20 activists were seen Thursday holding placards in St Mark's Square, the iconic heart of Venice, with some trying to climb a post

Bezos' Response

In a 2023 Vogue interview, Jeff Bezos revealed that he wouldn't dare get involved with wedding planning. "Oh, God, no. Do I look that dumb?" he joked when asked if he had a big part in the preparations. The future Mrs. Bezos listed Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, and Valentino as some of her favorite designers, but didn't share any details about which one will create her gown or gowns for the special day.

As the wedding extravaganza unfolds, one thing is clear: this is an event that will be remembered for years to come. But amidst all the glamour and glitz, questions remain about the impact of this lavish celebration on the city and its residents.

Sources

thescholarlynote.com - An insider revealed last week that San Georgio Maggiore island is "off-limits to visitors" from June 24 to June 29.

thescholarlynote.com - Local media reported that the Scuola Grande della Misericordia party has been moved to another venue in the Arsenale area due to protests and concerns.

thescholarlynote.com - Greenpeace activists unfurled a massive banner in St Mark's Square, featuring Jeff Bezos' face and the slogan: "If you can rent Venice for your wedding, then you can pay more tax."

thescholarlynote.com - Activists from British group "Everyone Hates Elon" were involved in the protests and said they carried out the action to highlight the "environmental and social injustice of the wedding."