The White House decorated for the holidays
No home in America celebrates the holidays quite like the White House, and behind each annual celebration is a first lady who lends her own distinctive style to the festivities. Coleen Christian Burke, a professional decorator who was a 2014 White House design partner, surveys the signature holiday decorating approaches of modern residents from Jackie Kennedy to Michelle Obama.
Drawing from her own experience and her book Christmas with the First Ladies, Christian Burke reveals how White House decorating themes are developed, how the White House functions during the holidays as both a private home and public space, and offers views of some of the most memorable holiday settings created at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
2–3:30 p.m. First-Lady Style
Whether reflected in teddy bears, nutcrackers, or American-made crafts, each seasonal decorating theme at the White House is influenced by the first lady’s personality, her causes and interests, and by the events of the day. Learn about Jackie Kennedy’s diplomatic children’s tea, Rosalynn Carter’s homespun holidays, Nancy Reagan’s glamorous take on the East Room, and how Michelle Obama recognized American service men and women though holiday décor.
3:30–4:15 p.m. How It’s Done
Based on her experience in 2014, Christian Burke offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the months of planning that led to the sparkling holiday decorations created around the theme “A Children’s Winter Wonderland.” Follow the evolution and implementation of the project—which included more than 50 trees, multiple 20-foot arches, and a specially designed floor treatment in the State Dining Room—and learn how even the smallest details are planned to provide the greatest impact.
4:15–5 p.m. Crafting Traditions
Crafts have often played a significant role in the seasonal décor at the White House. See samples of hand-made ornaments including Jacqueline Kennedy’s miniature gift-wrapped presents and Barbara Bush’s embellished ballet slippers, Laura Bush’s topiary trees, and the very personal messages from home to military personnel incorporated into one of Michelle Obama’s decorating themes. Then create your own handcrafted holiday ornament inspired by one of Mrs. Obama’s originals.
