What People are Saying About Christmas at the White House

 
"This book brings back so many wonderful memories. Christmas is such a special time at the White House and is most beautiful during the holidays. I remember all the great fragrances from the decorations -- the smell of pine trees, cinnamon, gingerbread, currants, berries and nuts. I've become very nostalgic and rather melancholic, in a happy way, reading this book."

- Letitia Baldrige, Former Social Secretary to First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy 

Left: Caroline Kennedy next to the Blue Room tree, decorated with the help and advice of Bunny Mellon, of Upperville, Virginia.

"Jennifer Pickens' fine book takes us home for Christmas to America's most famous house, where the ceremonies of public performance and the charm of intimate family life, captured in rare photographs and engaging text, add up to a memorable holiday classic."

- William Seale, Premier White House Historian

 "There is no other building in the world that is more important than the White House…and so I considered my job of creating the gingerbread house each Christmas as a very important one. I made a unique and different one each year. Children loved them and so did the Presidents and First Ladies. It was my favorite part of the holidays, because making them made me feel like a kid again. I am thrilled they have all been documented into one singular book."

- Roland Mesnier, White House Executive Pastry Chef

 "Your book is fantasy coated in sugar crystals and warm memories of better times. Thank you for capturing the best of the past." 

- Sam Mauldin, Dallas Floral Expert