DECO AT THE DRAKE

Whether the weather is warm and sunny or (more likely) a wintery mix, the annual Tablescapes luncheon presented by the Hinsdale Auxiliary of The Infant Welfare Society of Chicago Auxiliary has become the moment when many local women emerge from hibernation, ready for a beautiful day with friends. New dresses are debuted, jewelry for spring break trips is snapped up at vendor tables, and a festive spirit fills the air.

Tablescapes made its debut in the 1990s and auxiliary members work hard each year to carry beloved traditions forward while also imbuing the afternoon with fresh thrills.

This year’s benefit co-chairs Linda Davis and Melissa Goebel along with Hinsdale Auxiliary president Laura Preusser chose this year’s theme, “Deco at the Drake” to celebrate and honor the city of Chicago, which is home to the most stunning examples of stylish and elegant art deco design. The date, 3.12, is a nod to our beloved city and cultural hub.

“Chicago is known for its great culinary scene, loyal sports fans and revered music venues, but it’s also recognized as a leading architectural city, in particular for art deco design in the 1920s era,” said Davis.

Tablescapes, the signature fundraising event of the Hinsdale Auxiliary, will feature six stylish, sleek and sophisticated table settings and vignettes to match the theme, including Speak Easy to Me, Puttin’ on the Ritz and Age of Hollywood.

First time attendees should know that each of these breathtaking displays are a part of the day’s raffle. Raffle tickets may be purchased with one’s luncheon seat or at the event. It’s not unusual for ladies who arrive with raffle tickets in hand to buy handfuls more when they spot the designs that members create. “Our guests can win carefully curated art deco-themed table settings that bring the glitz and glamour of the roaring 1920s to any 2020s dinner party,” said Geobel.

Guests will also enjoy a three-course lunch, live music, shopping from more than 20 premier boutiques, silent auction items and more.

“We invite everyone to come shop, dine, bid on auction items and enter to win art deco-themed Tablescapes for a good cause,” says Zografos-Preusser, adding, “For more than 20 years, the Hinsdale Auxiliary has presented Tablescapes in support of IWS Family Health, a wonderful resource for healthcare services and education for medically underserved families in the Chicagoland area.”

Established in 1913, the Auxiliary is comprised of nine chapters and nearly 600 members throughout the Chicagoland area. Since its inception, the Auxiliary has donated more than $140 million to IWS. Due to the unwavering dedication of members and supporters – is the clinic’s largest single donor each year. One hundred percent of the proceeds from Tablescapes will go to serving patients at IWS Family Health.

It is an incredible day for groups of friends that creates lasting memories for those who attend and lasting good health for patients of IWS Family Health. The Drake Oak Brook is the perfect setting for Tablescapes. It is slightly smaller than previous locations, which means tickets will sell out even faster than usual. Regulars and first timers should snap up seats, tables, and raffle tickets sooner rather than later.

Tablescapes “Deco at the Drake” is Sunday, March 12, 2022, from 12 to 4 p.m.at The Drake Oak Brook. Tickets are available at hinsdaleiws.com, flash raffles appear on Instagram @hinsdaleiws.