As Melania Trump prepares for another term as first lady, friends, political contacts, and members of Palm Beach society say she will resume the traditional role of transforming the White House into a holiday showplace-albeit on her own terms. Despite past comments expressing discontent with the seasonal duties, those who know her anticipate that she will embrace the task, delivering what one former ambassador calls a "magical" setting.
Years have passed since recordings from 2018 resurfaced, capturing her frustration: "I'm working ... my a-- off on the Christmas stuff, that you know, who gives a f--- about the Christmas stuff and decorations?" This exasperation sent ripples through Washington, yet Melania's acquaintances insist time has altered her perspective. "Melania has exquisite taste and will make the White House beautiful and magical," said Robin Bernstein, former ambassador to the Dominican Republic under President Trump. She emphasized that the first lady's top priority remains her son: "She has Barron to look after, and that time will factor into how long she spends on various parts of the project."
Palm Beach sources suggest Melania will approach the decorating process with careful selectivity. "She will set her own schedule, make her own rules, and use her own taste," one social insider explained. "She will do what she wants with Barron's needs coming first above everything." This approach underscores the delicate balance she aims to maintain, blending duty with personal preference.
In a recent interview on "Fox & Friends," the first lady showcased ornaments from her new holiday line. "This is the third season that I design, and they are very special," she said, pointing to the $90 "USA Star" and $75 "Vote Liberty" offerings. "As you could see, it's all red, white and blue. I was inspired by that," she added. "It's a great gift and a great collectible. They're beautiful."
While lingering skepticism remains about her genuine enthusiasm, insiders say Melania can deftly produce an enchanting holiday setting. A political source familiar with the couple's circle noted, "She is talented and can do a beautiful holiday scene in the White House even if she tackles it as just another duty." That same source anticipates her staff will handle much of the execution: "She will have more time this next year ... Don't forget Melania is her own person, and she will give it the time she thinks it needs. No more or less."
Though tradition calls for the first lady to host receptions and parties at the White House, it's not certain whether Melania will linger in Washington for the holiday season. According to one social source, "It is not likely that she will treat the White House as her main home." Instead, the first lady may split her time among various residences, including Mar-a-Lago and Trump Tower in New York, where Barron is attending university.
Still, those close to Melania believe the public may be surprised by her efforts. "This term, without her [late mother Amalija Knavs], she will seek to make her own traditions," a social acquaintance said, suggesting that the lack of her mother's presence could inspire new creative touches. "She may likely spend more time and devote more honest interest in decorating for Christmas in the White House."
The first lady's recent promotional efforts for her ornament line further confirm her intention to influence the holiday aesthetic. "They are very patriotic this year," she said, describing her inspiration and hinting at a blend of personal style and national pride. Those who recall her past frustrations acknowledge a potential evolution: "She has magical style herself and that will translate to the White House decorating," Bernstein said.
