Rob Giardinelli
Here’s Where Philanthropists, Designers, And Fashion Tastemakers Gathered At The Fairmont Austin For An Unforgettable Afternoon Of Floral-Inspired Fashion, Imaginative Tablescape Artistry, And Fundraising In Support Of Families Transitioning From Homelessness To Stable Housing
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Cristina Pruitt Photography
THE SCENE: The Fairmont Austin Hotel was the setting for one of the Capital City’s most fun and engaging luncheons. A sold-out crowd featuring over 500 of Austin’s top community leaders, designers, fashionistas, sociables, and philanthropists was on hand for the 5th Annual “A Garden of Tablescapes” luncheon. Hosted by the Salvation Army Austin Women’s Auxiliary, the afternoon featured stunning tables and gorgeous fashions that have left a mark on the Austin philanthropic landscape.
THE VIBE: The cocktail-attired crowd featured attendees donning an array of cheerful ensembles. In the crowd, one could spot many sporting pastels, bold colors, prints, and neutrals. The result was an environment where everyone felt able to find their footing in this unique, eclectic garden of guests.
As guests headed to the ballroom foyer of the Fairmont, they knew they were in for a very special afternoon. Attendees started the afternoon purchasing raffle tickets for an array of luxury goods, yet the most fun lay just inside the Fairmont ballroom doors.
Once inside the Fairmont ballroom, partygoers’ eyes popped at the sight of 50 beautifully designed tables designed by many of Austin’s top designers. The stunning tables featured wedding, garden, and international themes, including place settings, seating, and elaborate centerpieces. For the first time in 2026, guests had the chance to view the tables in a preview area so everyone could take full advantage of viewing the incredible fashion show by Patty Hoffpauier’s The Garden Room that lay ahead.
The Fairmont Austin and Salvation Army staff then opened the dividing doors between the tablescapes room and the runway, prompting the crowd to head to their seats for lunch and the main program. Kicking things off was a brief invocation, as well as honoring Dick and Sara Rathgeber for their continued support of the Salvation Army, including their donation of the land on which the now Rathgeber Center for Families is located.
As guests enjoyed their lunches, they were treated to an epic fashion show courtesy of Patty Hoffpauir and The Garden Room. The nearly 100-piece show featured six curated collections inspired by various floral and nature motifs, including Garden Party, Tickled Pink, Limoncello, By The Sea, Red, White & Bloom, and Marry Me. The collection featured looks for patrons of all ages, resulting in a standing ovation from the audience upon the show’s conclusion.
Next came an appeal where generous patrons made donations, followed by an inspiring talk from featured speaker Meredith Lewis. The afternoon was capped off in the Fairmont Ballroom foyer, where a pop-up boutique from The Garden Room awaited eager shoppers and guests who had the opportunity to purchase many of the items featured on the runway show.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 5th Annual ‘A Garden of Tablescapes” luncheon, chaired by Linda Dryden and Jenny Jopling and hosted by Salvation Army Austin Area Commander Major Jacqulyn Reckline, raised over $200,000 for the Salvation Army Austin Area Command. Proceeds from the event will support programs and services at the Rathgeber Center to help families move from homelessness to stable housing.
Here Are The 7 Standout Highlights From “A Garden Of Tablescapes” Luncheon 2026…
The Fairmont Austin Became A Floral-Inspired Wonderland
More than 500 guests gathered for an afternoon filled with imaginative décor, elegant fashion, and vibrant philanthropic energy.
Fifty Designer Tablescapes Stole The Spotlight
Austin’s top creatives designed breathtaking tables featuring wedding, garden, and international themes, complete with elaborate centerpieces and curated place settings.
Guests Enjoyed A First-Ever Tablescape Preview Experience
For the first time, attendees had the opportunity to fully explore the intricate table designs before the luncheon and fashion show began.
The Fashion Show Delivered Nearly 100 Stunning Looks
Patty Hoffpauir and The Garden Room wowed guests with six nature-inspired collections, including Garden Party, Tickled Pink, Limoncello, and Red, White & Bloom.
Dick And Sara Rathgeber Were Honored For Their Impact
The beloved philanthropists were recognized for their longtime support of the Salvation Army, including donating the land for the Rathgeber Center for Families.
Meredith Lewis Inspired Guests During The Afternoon Appeal
A heartfelt fundraising appeal and inspiring remarks encouraged generous giving in support of families transitioning from homelessness to stable housing.
The Shopping Continued After The Runway Lights Dimmed
Guests capped off the afternoon by browsing a chic pop-up boutique from The Garden Room featuring many of the fashions seen on the runway.
