Melania Trump’s first night in the White House with Donald Trump: ‘That was a surreal experience’

During a recent fundraising event, President Donald Trump offered a rare glimpse into the intimate moment he shared with First Lady Melania on their very first night at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. 

Speaking to a group of donors supporting a $250 million ballroom project at the White House, Trump described the experience as “surreal” and emphasized the historic significance of their new home.

© Win McNamee

Standing in the residential hallway with Melania, Trump recounted how he looked into the famed Lincoln Bedroom and marveled at the moment. “I say, ‘That was a surreal experience.’ I’m saying, ‘Do you believe this? We’re in the White House and that’s the Lincoln bedroom!’” he told attendees. 

© JIM WATSON

He went on to reflect, “It takes a while to get [used to it]. I’m still not, probably, used to it. It’s just a special place, what can I say. So we have to take care of it.” “There’s nothing like the White House,” he said. “It’s just a special place.”

© Chip Somodevilla

The event was held to raise funds for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom inside the White House, designed to host state dinners and grand events. The lavish space, expected to be completed before the end of Trump’s term, will feature gold accents and extensive architectural detail. 

© SAUL LOEB

The fundraiser attracted prominent donors, including representatives from tech giants like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Microsoft. “We have a lot of legends in the room tonight, and that’s why we’re here to celebrate you because you’ve given tremendous amounts of money to see a ballroom built for the first time at the White House,” Trump remarked.

© SAUL LOEB

Since Trump’s return to the White House, the First Lady has made several public appearances alongside him, including his inauguration, a state visit to the UK, and major events like the White House Easter Egg Roll and the United Nations General Assembly in New York. She also recently spoke at a White House AI task force and has reportedly maintained “an open channel of communication” with Russian officials concerning Ukrainian children.

© Anna Moneymaker

The couple's latest UK visit was without a doubt a highlight of the year.  The 45th and 47th President of the United States accepted the invitation for the unprecedented state visit back in February. 

© WPA Pool

The invite from King Charles was delivered by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a visit to the White House. "This is really special. This has never happened before. This is unprecedented," the prime minister said at the time.