Donald and Melania Trump celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary amidst their busy lives, with Trump focusing on political ambitions. Their relationship began in 1998 at a Fashion Week event, leading to a lavish wedding in 2005 attended by celebrities. Despite the extravagant celebration, they opted for a low-key honeymoon at home. Trump’s journey through marriage includes two previous unions, and his political affiliations have shifted significantly over the years, culminating in his presidency from 2017 to 2021.
Celebrating Two Decades Together
As Donald Trump, 78, and Melania Trump, 54, mark their 20th wedding anniversary, their schedules are likely too packed for a lavish celebration. The former President of the United States is gearing up to make his mark with a series of executive orders as he embarks on a new term, heralding what he claims will be a ‘new golden age for America.’ In such a busy landscape, personal romance takes a back seat.
A Journey Through Marriage
Donald Trump’s union with Melania Knavs on January 22, 2005, represents his third marriage. Previously, he was married to former model Ivana Trump from 1977 until 1992, followed by actress Marla Maples from 1993 to 1999. When he tied the knot with Melania, his public persona was vastly different than it is today. While already politically engaged, few could have predicted that he would eventually ascend to the presidency.
Before making waves in politics, Trump was a well-known media personality and businessman. His reality TV show, ‘The Apprentice,’ launched in 2004, showcased aspiring business minds vying for a chance to work with him. The catchphrase ‘You’re fired!’ became synonymous with his persona during the show’s run.
Trump’s political journey has also been marked by a number of party affiliations. When he married Melania in 2005, he was a registered Democrat with amicable ties to political figures like Bill and Hillary Clinton. His shifting party loyalty is well-documented, having switched parties five times since the late 1980s, ultimately rejoining the Republican Party in 2012 before his successful campaign for the presidency from 2017 to 2021.
From Fashion Week to a Grand Wedding
The couple first crossed paths at a Fashion Week party in New York in 1998, as they later recounted to Larry King. Trump was initially there to meet another supermodel but quickly became captivated by Melania. At the time, she was new to the New York modeling scene, having arrived just three years prior and achieved early success as a campaign face for a cigarette brand.
Their wedding in January 2005 was a sensational affair that attracted significant media attention. With around 450 guests, the event was attended by notable figures such as Muhammad Ali, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Hillary Clinton. The celebration took place at Trump’s lavish Mar-a-Lago estate, where the couple hosted a reception filled with extravagant decorations and entertainment, including a performance by Elton John.
Trump reportedly spent around $2.5 million on their wedding, which featured 10,000 flowers and an extravagant cake costing $50,000. Melania’s wedding dress, crafted by Christian Dior and adorned with 1,500 gemstones, was valued at approximately $100,000, while her diamond-encrusted wedding ring set Trump back a staggering $1.5 million.
In stark contrast to the opulence of their wedding, the couple’s honeymoon was remarkably low-key. In an interview, Trump revealed that they chose to spend their honeymoon at home, citing the comforts of their Mar-a-Lago residence over a trip to a tropical destination.