Portland interior designer Kelley Harrington recently had the prestigious opportunity to contribute her expertise to decorating the White House for the 2024 holiday season, collaborating with a dedicated team of approximately 300 volunteers. Working on a project of such historical and national significance was not just a career highlight for Harrington but also a deeply personal endeavor, as she used the same handmade ornament tradition practiced by her late mother. The result was a festive transformation that complemented the grandeur of the White House while embodying a theme of “A Season of Peace and Light.”
Creating Holiday Magic at the White House
Focusing on Handcrafted Elegance
Harrington focused on crafts for two 18-foot-tall Christmas trees located in the State Dining Room, employing a large but tasteful approach to decorations. The team, led by Harrington, dedicated three days to meticulously preparing and installing extensive decorations that retained a refined, sophisticated charm. Many of these adornments were made from paper products, a choice close to Harrington’s heart as it echoed her tradition of using handmade ornaments. Garlands crafted by her late mother, for instance, brought nostalgic warmth to the intricate designs, perfectly aligning with the thematic focus in the State Dining Room.
The craftsmanship of the volunteers did not go unnoticed. During a December 2 event, First Lady Jill Biden lauded the volunteers for their dedication and artistry. The heartfelt recognition added an emotional layer to Harrington’s experience. The theme, “A Season of Peace and Light,” was notably portrayed through 83 live Christmas trees festooned with nearly 10,000 feet of ribbon, over 28,000 ornaments, more than 2,200 paper doves, and some 165,000 lights, all coming together to transform the White House into a festive wonderland.
A Personal Touch Amid Grandiose Decor
Harrington’s time at the White House was deeply personal, intertwined with cherished memories and familial connections. The significant decor efforts allowed her to reminisce and honor her late family members. She wore a black dress gifted by her late husband on their first Christmas together, her mother’s earrings, and a bracelet from her late sister when meeting the First Lady, adding a sentimental value to her professional role. Harrington, a distinguished interior designer, was awestruck by the historical artifacts, such as silver-plated sconces from Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1961 restoration.
In their decor efforts, Harrington’s team added red laser-cut paper shades and velvet rick rack trim to the mantelpiece decorations. This blend of elegance and storytelling profoundly impacted Harrington, as she saw it as an extension of her family’s holiday traditions. Her personal touches contributed to the White House’s grandeur, enhancing the already elegant and festive atmosphere with a resonant, warm sentiment.
The Journey from Portland to the White House
From Volunteer Application to National Stage
Harrington’s journey to the White House began back in August when she submitted an online volunteer application among approximately 3,000 hopefuls. This significant step set the stage for what would become a memorable and impactful experience. Arriving in Washington, D.C., on November 27, just before Thanksgiving, Harrington had the unique opportunity to absorb the city’s rich history, visiting museums and monuments that amplified the special nature of her subsequent work at the White House.
The preparation for the holiday decor was extensive, spreading across three days from Friday to Sunday. Harrington’s experience culminated in a reception with First Lady Jill Biden on Monday, marking a gratifying end to a whirlwind schedule. Despite the intensive work and tight deadlines, Harrington found the experience profoundly rewarding. The collaboration emphasized the values of hard work, teamwork, and openness to direction. Her enthusiasm for the project was evident, as she recommended the enriching experience to others passionate about holiday decorating and historical settings.
Volunteering Spirit and Collaborative Effort
Portland interior designer Kelley Harrington recently had the prestigious opportunity to showcase her talent by decorating the White House for the 2024 holiday season. She worked alongside a dedicated team of about 300 volunteers, making this project both a significant professional milestone and a personal journey. Harrington honored the memory of her late mother by incorporating the same handmade ornament tradition her mother once practiced, adding a heartfelt touch to her work. Together, they transformed the White House into a festive wonderland that not only highlighted its historic beauty but also embodied the theme “A Season of Peace and Light.” This theme aimed to bring a sense of tranquility and illumination to the nation’s most iconic residence. The collaboration and the successful execution of this project solidified Harrington’s reputation as a leading interior designer. Her participation in this significant event reflects not only her professional skills but also her ability to bring personal and emotional depth to her designs.