Billion-Dollar Nuptials: Inside the Extravagant Weddings of the Super-Rich, From Bezos to Ambani Hoặc: From Bezos to Ambani: A Glimpse Inside the World's Most Opulent, Billion-Dollar Weddings

Weddings, celebrated as symbols of love and commitment, reach unparalleled levels of opulence for the world's wealthiest individuals. These grand celebrations, marked by unmatched luxury and staggering expenses, redefine the very meaning of extravagance. From royal ceremonies watched by billions to private gatherings featuring million-dollar gowns and performances by global icons, these events consistently push the boundaries of what's imaginable.

Whether staged in majestic palaces, historic castles, or modern mega-mansions, every detail of these billion-dollar weddings is meticulously curated. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer scale, star-studded guest lists, and fairytale settings that transform these personal milestones into historic and cultural phenomena.

Here's a glimpse into some of the most extravagant weddings of the 21st century:

A Roll Call of Remarkable Nuptials

Lauren Sánchez and Jeff Bezos (2025)

• Location: Venice, Italy
• Estimated Cost: $10 million

The upcoming wedding of journalist Lauren Sánchez and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in Venice is generating significant buzz. The exclusive event, expected to host around 200 guests, promises an experience of unparalleled luxury. However, the anticipation is tempered by local protests expressing concerns that such lavish celebrations are pricing residents out of their own city.

Said Gutseriev and Khadija Uzhakhova (2016)

• Location: Safisa Banqueting Hall, Moscow
• Estimated Cost: $1 billion

Khadija Uzhakhova's marriage to Said Gutseriev, son of Russian oil magnate Mikhail Gutseriev, is considered the most expensive wedding in recent history. The bride's custom-made Elie Saab gown, weighing a staggering 28 pounds due to crystal and bead embellishments, required assistance for her to walk. The Safisa Banqueting Hall in Moscow was transformed into a floral paradise. To add to the spectacle, A-list performers like Jennifer Lopez, Sting, and Enrique Iglesias entertained guests.

Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani (2024)

• Location: Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai
• Estimated Cost: $600 million - $1 billion

The wedding of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani, son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, showcased Indian extravagance on a grand scale. This multi-month celebration blended cultural traditions with breathtaking displays of wealth. Notable attendees included Kim Kardashian, Nick Jonas, Priyanka Chopra, and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Over one million flowers were used to create more than 60 animal sculptures.

Princess Diana and Prince Charles (1981)

• Location: St. Paul's Cathedral, London
• Estimated Cost: $48 million (equivalent to approximately $166 million today)

Dubbed "The Wedding of the Century," the union of Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles was a global spectacle. Diana's iconic dress, designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, featured 10,000 pearls and a 25-foot train. While the reception was relatively intimate with only 120 guests, the event's grandeur was undeniable.

Isha Ambani and Anand Piramal (2018)

• Location: Antilia, Mumbai
• Estimated Cost: $100 million

Isha Ambani's wedding to Anand Piramal was a multi-day extravaganza, commencing with an engagement at Lake Como, Italy, where John Legend performed. The main ceremony took place at the Ambani family's Mumbai skyscraper, Antilia, adorned with flowers that covered its 27 stories.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry (2018)

• Location: Windsor Castle, England
• Estimated Cost: $45 million

Meghan Markle's wedding to Prince Harry blended Hollywood glamour with British royalty. Watched by nearly two billion people globally, the ceremony featured a minimalist Givenchy gown, performances by orchestras, gospel choirs, and Elton John.

Vanisha Mittal and Amit Bhatia (2004)

• Location: Paris, France
• Estimated Cost: $60 million

Lakshmi Mittal's daughter, Vanisha Mittal, celebrated her wedding to Amit Bhatia with a seven-day event in Paris. The festivities took place at iconic locations like the Palace of Versailles and Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte. Kylie Minogue provided entertainment, and the celebrations culminated in a dazzling fireworks display over the Eiffel Tower.

Kate Middleton and Prince William (2011)

• Location: Westminster Abbey, London
• Estimated Cost: $33 million

The wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton captivated audiences worldwide. Kate's Alexander McQueen gown featured exquisite lace embroidery and a 9-foot train. Westminster Abbey was decorated with trees and thousands of flowers.

Angelababy and Huang Xiaoming (2015)

• Location: Shanghai Exhibition Center
• Estimated Cost: $31 million

The wedding of Chinese actress Angelababy and actor Huang Xiaoming was a high-tech spectacle, complete with a holographic castle.

Petra Ecclestone and James Stunt

• Location: Castello Odescalchi, Bracciano, Italy
• Cost: $19 million

Petra Ecclestone, daughter of Formula One magnate Bernie Ecclestone, married businessman James Stunt in a three-day celebration at Castello Odescalchi in Italy. Andrea Bocelli and the Black Eyed Peas performed.