Childhood friends of Melania told “The New York Times” that Melania’s father also has a “larger-than-life personality,” quite like Donald’s. Her father, Viktor Knavs, was a member of the Communist Party, which the Times described as “an exclusive club whose members sometimes joined because of career ambitions as much as ideology.”
Knavs managed car and motorcycle dealerships for a state-owned manufacturer. Also written in Times was another fact that her childhood friends disclosed of her father “he carries himself “in a self-assured way that now reminded them of Mr. Trump.”
Keeping Quiet
While some First Ladies have embraced the spotlight and thrived in the public eye, Melania Trump took a different approach. Known for her quiet demeanor and soft-spoken nature, Melania stood out as a unique presence in the White House. Those who know her well have described her as a homebody who prefers the comfort of her own space over the bustling social scene.
Unlike her predecessors, Melania often chose to retreat early from events, preferring the solace of a peaceful evening at home. She prefers a more private and introspective lifestyle, on contrary to other first-class politicians, celebs, and those constantly under the limelight.
Can I Have Your Number?
According to an account in "The New Yorker," the initial encounter between Melania and Donald Trump unfolded at a vibrant Fashion Week party in New York City in 1998. Donald, always one to seize an opportunity, was immediately drawn to Melania and attempted to secure her phone number. However, Melania, aware that Donald was attending the event on another date, politely declined to give him her number.
Undeterred, Donald persisted, showing his persistence and determination. Eventually, Melania relented, opting to take Donald's number instead. This playful exchange marked the beginning of a courtship that would later lead to their marriage and the start of a unique journey in the political spotlight.
Trouble With the In-Laws?
In a delightful twist of family dynamics, Melania's parents brought their own comedic flair to the Trump household. While Melania championed her husband's political ambitions, her father, Viktor Knavs, seemed to play the role of the skeptical father-in-law. According to "The New York Times," Knavs would jokingly lament to his longtime friend about Donald Trump's "whiplash-inducing inconsistency" in his political views and actions.
With a puzzled expression, Knavs would wonder aloud why his son-in-law was so determined to take on the demanding role of the President. It seems even in the Trump family, there was room for lighthearted banter and playful disagreements.
Visiting Melania's Homeland
Despite being married to a Slovenian-born First Lady, Donald Trump's visit to Slovenia was brief. In July 2002, the Trumps made a grand entrance at Ljubljana Brnik airport, touching down in Trump's luxurious Boeing 727. Their visit lasted only three hours, but it left an indelible mark on Melania's homeland.
The couple, accompanied by Melania's parents, Viktor and Amalija Knavs, enjoyed a delightful dinner at the exquisite Grand Hotel Toplice, nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Bled. According to "The New Yorker," this fleeting stopover at Lake Bled remains the sole occasion when Donald Trump set foot in Slovenia, making it a truly memorable moment for the Slovenian people.