Private jets flew over the picturesque canals of Venice as the city prepared for the wedding of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and broadcaster Lauren Sánchez. For three days, Venice transformed into a hub of extravagance filled with celebrities, influencers, and excitement, all while many locals voiced their concerns about overtourism.

The historic backdrop of San Giorgio Maggiore became the stage for this modern fairytale. With elite guests arriving via superyachts and private planes, local business owners reveled in the expected economic boost brought by this high-profile event. Yet for some Venetians, this spectacle underscored the ongoing debate over tourism's impact on their city.

Venice has always been associated with luxury and flourish, but this wedding shone a light on the city's ongoing struggles with preserving its charm amidst overwhelming tourism. While city officials embraced the prestige, local voices echoed the warning of losing authenticity to grand occasions.