By Caily Shriver

This year was a breath of fresh air for Americans who were ready to turn back to the traditional White House Christmas. Although much of the East Wing is under construction, the First Lady Melania Trump and designer Hervé Pierre certainly outdid themselves for the rest of the White House decorations.

Her theme “Home is Where the Heart Is” features “over 50 Christmas trees” with classically beautiful white lights, red and gold seasonal blooms, and red velvet presents at their base. The decorations also include 75 of the First Lady’s signature wreaths with their “classic red bows” which grace the White House windows. The East Room was filled with large and patriotic Christmas trees and garland to celebrate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

The official White House tree, located in the Blue Room, was dedicated to Gold Star military families and included ornaments for each state. The Red Room features a tree and garland of contrasting blue butterflies to commemorate “transformation and renewal” for foster children, along with ornaments inscribed with “Be Best” to celebrate the First Lady’s campaign, which started in 2021, to promote child well-being. The State Room was highlighted as “a stage for diplomacy and hospitality” with the annual gingerbread house and large trees showcasing the official White House Christmas Ornament.

Beyond her Christmas decorating expertise, the First Lady has also been seen spending the Christmas season volunteering with organizations like the Red Cross and Toys for Tots. In early December, the First Lady spoke in front of military spouses at Joint Base Andrews and assisted in assembling 700 care packages for military members alongside other cabinet spouses, including Second Lady Usha Vance. A few days later, she completed the First Lady’s annual visit to Children’s National Hospital, a tradition that started in 1945 by then First Lady Bess Truman. And on December 8th, the First Lady arrived at the Marine Corps Base Quantico with Santa Claus to assist the Toys for Tots charity drive. 

Although the Trumps may have redeemed the White House Christmas decor from the mixed reviews of the Biden years, we are all called to remember that our redemption isn’t found in our president or any other member of the government. Instead, our redemption is found in the ever-loving, constant, unchanging Lord. This Christmas season, focus on the beautiful reminder of God’s love found in Jesus Christ.