Wedgwood, England’s world-renowned maker of fine china and ceramics since 1759, has been the last word in timeless elegance and understated design, favored by royals, valued by collectors, and sought after by discriminating shoppers. Celebrate Wedgwood’s 250th anniversary in this afternoon steeped in Wedgwood’s story: its resourceful founder, Josiah Wedgwood; its illustrious patrons; storied designers; and the craftsmen who still hand press wafer-thin slivers of basrelief in Stoke-on-Trent.

Lord Wedgwood, a direct descendent of Josiah Wedgwood, gives a personal view of the concern’s heritage, from the traditional craft skills to the evolution of products and designs to meet changing lifestyles. He also discusses the products’ proper care and storage. Anne Forschler-Tarrasch, curator of decorative arts at the Birmingham Museum of Art—home to the largest collection of Wedgwood ceramics outside of England—shows highlights of the collection. Designer Tricia Foley, former editor at House Beautiful and Country Home and author of At Home with Wedgwood, discusses the passion for collecting Wedgwood and describes the collections of some of today’s designers and style makers. She also talks about creative ways to display pieces and how patterns can be mixed for pleasing results.

After the program, participants enjoy a tea with sweets and may view the DAR Museum exhibition Wedgwood: 250 Years of Innovation and Artistry. It showcases nearly 200 pieces from North American private and museum lenders, celebrity collectors, and the DAR Museum collection.