About the Event: SAWA in Austin
Each year, the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary (SAWA) brings together some of Austin’s most inspiring women for a meaningful cause—blending philanthropy, community, and creativity in one beautifully curated event.
Hosted this year at the elegant Fairmont Austin, the event invites local businesses and designers to create thoughtfully styled tablescapes, all in support of charitable initiatives led by the Salvation Army.
It’s more than just a visual experience. It’s a gathering of women—many deeply involved in volunteering, philanthropy, and community leadership—who believe in creating impact while celebrating beauty, craftsmanship, and intentional living.
The Idea: A Timeless Indian Narrative
Indian Inspired Tablescape at SAWA Austin, Fairmont
This tablescape is inspired by the timeless richness of Indian culture—where every element carries meaning, every pattern tells a story, and beauty is deeply intertwined with symbolism.
At the center of the table stands the elephant.
In Indian tradition, the elephant is deeply symbolic. Associated with Lord Ganesha, it represents wisdom, the removal of obstacles, protection, and abundance. It carries a quiet strength, a sense of grounding, and a promise of prosperity.
I wanted the table to feel like that—abundant, welcoming, layered, and full of life.
Around it, I built a narrative using hand block prints—an art form that has been practiced in India for centuries. The human touch, slow life, craftsmanship… they bring warmth and authenticity that cannot be replicated.
The palette draws from celebration—vibrant florals, warm golds, soft greens, and joyful pinks—reminiscent of Indian gatherings where color is not just aesthetic, but emotional.
Materials & Details
Every detail on this table was chosen with intention—balancing tradition with a modern, elevated aesthetic.
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Elephant: Handcrafted with paper mache
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Table Linen: Lavante Tablecloth - Handblock Print Cotton Round Tablecloth
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Placemats: Pomegranate Bloom - Quilted Cotton Placemats (Set of 4)
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Decor Accents & Centerpieces:
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Dinnerware & Glassware:
From layered textiles to sculptural accents, the goal was to create depth—something that invites you to pause, look closer, and feel something.
In a room filled with stunning tables and inspiring women, this one stood as a quiet reminder: that tradition can be modern, that beauty can carry meaning, and that even a table can tell a story of abundance.
Events like these remind us that design isn’t just about how something looks—it’s about how it makes people feel.
And if this table did anything, I hope it made people feel a sense of warmth, curiosity, and connection.
Explore our table linen collection here
