When it comes to impressing Queen Elizabeth, it can't be an easy feat. On July 12 and 13, Donald and Melania Trump are visiting the U.K., and their lengthy agenda involves a visit to the queen herself. Donald Trump has certainly established himself as a controversial president, so I was definitely interested to see how he and the queen would get along. Now that we've got an inside peek into their meeting, these photos of Queen Elizabeth with the Trumps versus Obamas reveal so much.
The queen, in her quintessential classic demeanor, greet the president and first lady on Friday with a warm smile and handshakes. The trio then stood in a row and watched the military display take place at Windsor Castle.
It's not rare that world leaders occasionally rub elbows with one another from time to time. So, the United States president and the queen of England are certainly no different. The long-standing matriarch has certainly had her fair share of presidential visits; in fact, according to The Independent, Queen Elizabeth has met with every U.S. president since 1945, with the exception of Lyndon Johnson.
The queen met with the Trumps on July 13, but rewind to a few years ago to revisit a simpler time, when Barack Obama was president. There's no denying that the Obamas are arguably one of the most charismatic families in White House history, but the queen gave both first families a warm greeting.
Thankfully, it doesn't appear that Trump gave the queen, at 92 years old, one of his signature arm-wrenching handshakes.
There, they also had an amicable handshake, albeit indoors and with Prince Philip present.
In April 2016, former president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama traveled across the pond to Windsor Castle in order to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's 90th birthday, and share a quick lunch. Talk about a royal affair. Leading up to the birthday celebration, Queen Elizabeth greeted the Obamas with sheer delight, and she's honestly giving me life with that kerchief. I have to say, the Obamas better consider themselves lucky that Queen Elizabeth took it upon herself to meet the couple on the green. After all, as the longest reigning British monarch it's safe to say that most people come to her.
The president looked impressed as he took in the Honour Guard on the green, accompanied by the queen.
Now, this might seem like a simple fashion choice, but it actually caused quite a stir back in 2009. Many argued that Michelle Obama was showing the queen disrespect with such a simple outfit.
Perhaps in response to the backlash Michelle faced — or perhaps because she just likes designed clothes — Melania Trump wore high fashion to meet the queen, with a pale pink Christian Dior suit.
This move also caused a stir — the queen initiated a side hug with Michelle, and Michelle reciprocated with a little squeeze. It was a very abnormal PDA moment for the queen.
The couple kept a respectful distance from touching the queen, which would break protocol (she has to initiate it for you to be allowed to touch her, duh).
There's no better way to kick of your 90th year than with a toast surrounded by close friends.... and the President of the United States. Not only did the Obama's join Queen Elizabeth for a midday lunch and tea, but the pairs finished off the day with a swanky celebration in the queen's honor. Not only do Barack Obama and Queen Elizabeth both look fabulous, but judging from this festive toast captured I think it's also safe to say they're having the time of their lives. I don't know about y'all, but I'm having serious FOMO right now.
The president and the queen looked fairly comfortable as they walked and talked together outside the castle.
The queen may be the biggest draw to visiting the United Kingdom, but she isn't the only royal figure in town. During their U.K. visit in April 2016, Barack and Michelle Obama not only had lunch with Queen Elizabeth, but they also met with Prince Harry, Prince William, and Kate Middleton at Kensington Palace. I have to say, this picture screams #squadgoals.
It brings a tear to my eye how effortless and casual the Obamas look standing next to this royal family. However, I wouldn't be surprised if the Obamas were formally inducted into Prince William and Kate Middleton's family after Barack Obama gave Prince George an adorable rocking horse for his birthday.
This happened in 2016 and I've been crying ever since.
Obviously the Obamas' visit in April 2016 was one for the books. It's not really that surprising since the former presidential family are known to be charming and charismatic. There's no denying that the Trumps are quite a different couple than the Obamas, but if anyone can handle a new president its Queen Elizabeth.
Judging from these photos, Donald Trump's U.K. visit may appear different than Barack Obama's, but let's be real, Trump was at a disadvantage the minute he booked that Friday the 13th arrival date.
