The people at heart of White House decor
“We the People” is Jill Biden’s holiday theme with White House decorations designed for “the people” to see themselves in the tree ornaments, mantel displays, mirrors and do-it-yourself creations that have turned the mansion’s public spaces into a winter wonderland.
“The soul of our nation is, and has always been, ‘We the People’,” the first lady said at an event honouring the volunteers who decorated over Thanksgiving weekend. “And that is what inspired this year’s
White House holiday decoration.”
“The values that unite us can be found all around you, a belief in possibility and optimism and unity,” Jill Biden said.
A burst of pine aroma hits visitors as they step inside the East Wing and come upon trees adorned with mirrored Gold Star ornaments bearing the names of fallen service members.
Winter trees, woodland animals and glowing lanterns help give the feeling of walking through snow.
Likenesses of Biden family pets –
Commander and Willow, the dog and cat – first appear at the end of the hallway before they are seen later in the Vermeil Room.
Recipes contributed by the small army of volunteer decorators spruce up the China Room’s mantel.
Aides say she was inspired by people she met while travelling around the country and by the nation’s Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Some 50,000 visitors are expected to pass through the White House for the holidays.