Toast: The Grand Dames

Today we're toasting the grand dames in our life - the matriarchs. Who would we be without the eclectic upbringing our grandmothers provided, the wisdom of our older aunts and female friends, and the unconditional love of our mothers. Their support comes in different forms, sometimes in ways we will never understand, and cannot be defined by any phrase or saying better than that one huge little word - love. We celebrate their uniqueness and originality; their quirks and their quips; and, especially, their love of celebrating life. It would be an injustice to not toast them with anything less than a fiercely fabulous tablescape. Tap into the personality of the grand dame in your life and set the table according to the style you see them exhibit in their daily lives.

Left: Mod squad meets modern elegance. Don't you want to meet her? | Right: A Jordan Payne designed tablescape featuring Mottahedeh Lace Charger, Loren China, Floral Elegance, Silver Rimmed Water Goblet, Silver Floral Lace Wine Goblet, Turquoise Trumpet Flut.

Women of a certain age are, in our opinion, the most beautiful beings on the planet. They have come into their own and ushered in new generations along the way. They haven't lost their love of all things pretty and pleasing and no longer get hooked on trends. So, how to set the table for them? We matched images of our fab ladies (including the awesome Iris Apfel) to tablescapes perfectly tailored to their looks. Both are at once traditional and elegant, yet exotic and textured; a perfect dichotemy for a well-rounded woman.

Left: Oatmeal Mesh Linen by Resource One, exclusively at P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals; Jan Barboglio Hammered Copper Charger, Barcelona Gold Charger, Mahogany Rose Dinner and Salad Plate, Exotic Bird Salad Plate | Right: The fabulous Iris Apfel