President Trump and the First Lady at the State Dinner with the Queen and Prince Charles
Marching bands, an 82-gun salute, and a lavish banquet adorned in white set the stage for a night of royal grandeur. The Queen, accompanied by Camilla and Kate, exuded elegance, adding a touch of sparkle that only royalty can command. President Trump’s first day of his state visit culminated in a grand fashion with a formal dinner at Buckingham Palace.
Surrounded by the splendor of royalty, the President and 170 esteemed guests dined amidst the finest display of china, crystal, and gilded silver. The meticulous preparations, including the precise measurement of 18-inch place settings, spanned four days, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail bestowed upon this momentous occasion.
The meticulously set table at the State Dinner with the finest china, crystal, and silverware
The evening commenced with a toast to President and Mrs. Trump, symbolizing the enduring alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom. Both leaders raised their glasses, acknowledging the significance of their shared values and interests. President Trump praised the Queen as a “great, great woman,” though his gesture of seemingly touching her back as she rose sparked debate about potential breaches of royal protocol.
Earlier in the day, President Trump’s itinerary included a formal inspection of the Guard of Honor alongside Prince Charles. The First Lady, Melania Trump, stood beside the Queen, her elegant ensemble drawing comparisons to the late Princess Diana. The Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla, captivated onlookers with a playful wink before joining the Trumps for tea.
Prince Harry, who had earlier joined the gathering for a private lunch away from the media’s gaze, maintained a noticeable distance from President Trump throughout the day. Notably absent was his wife, Meghan Markle, whom the President had previously labeled “nasty.”
Queen Elizabeth II shakes hands with US President Donald Trump during the ceremonial welcome on the first day of the US State Visit to the UK
Queen Elizabeth II, having met with 12 US presidents during her reign, possesses an unparalleled understanding of the profound significance of a state visit. President Trump’s visit marked only the third time a US President has been bestowed with this honor.
