Trumps release official Christmas portrait, Melania steals the show

The festive photo was snapped before Donald and Melania Trump headed to the Congressional Ball last Saturday. Source: Getty

Melania Trump has been busily preparing for Christmas, decorating the White House with extravagant decorations and trees, and now the fruits of her labour have been showed off Trump’s official 2018 Christmas card. 

The festive photo, which was snapped before the first couple headed to the Congressional Ball last Saturday, was shared on the first lady’s Twitter account on Tuesday and shows President Donald Trump and Melania holding hands in the Cross Hall of the White House, which is filled with dazzling Christmas trees.

Melania was dressed to impress in a glistening white gown by designer Celine, which was covered in sequins and featured a high funnel neckline, while Donald opted for a classic black tux.

“Merry Christmas from President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump,” reads the caption on the Twitter post. 

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The portrait comes after Melania revealed this year’s American Treasures theme for the White House last month. 

According to the White House, Melania designed the decorations herself, with each holding a special meaning to both the former model and America. In the East Wing, the Gold Star Family tree was erected to honour American troops and their families. 

“Gold stars and patriotic ribbon decorate the tree and visitors are encouraged to write messages to their loved ones who are on duty or abroad on the digital tablets provided,” the White House said in a statement.

Read more: Melania Trump makes Christmas appearance amid plummeting approval rating

The extravagance didn’t stop there with more than 40 topiary trees lining the East colonnade of the White House. There are also four trees in the Library, two sparkly trees in the Vermeil room, and four 14-foot Noble fir trees displaying 72 handmade paper ornaments representing the six regions across America.

Another tree stands in the Green Room, where a variety of fruits, vegetables and grains were used to decorate the branches, while the official 18-foot White House Christmas tree stands in the Blue Room, decorated with more than 500 feet of blue velvet ribbon, embroidered in gold with each US state.

“This is a joyous time of year when we decorate the White House for the Christmas Season,” Melania said in a statement. “Our theme honours the heart and spirit of the American people.

More than 30,000 people are expected to visit the White House in December.

What do you think of this year’s White House Christmas portrait?