By Darlene Brace
Attention all tablescape designers! It’s that time of year again for the annual “Come to the Table” fundraising event, which is just around the corner. This year marks the 18th anniversary of this event, which will take place on Thursday, May 14th, at the new venue, the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, located at 10 Dunham Avenue in Celoron. The evening promises to be exciting, featuring live tablescape auctions, basket raffles, door prizes, music, and refreshments.
“Come to the Table” is a unique fundraiser that supports Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Chautauqua County. CASA works to empower advocates who act in the best interests of abused and neglected children. This nonprofit organization relies on highly trained volunteers appointed by the Chautauqua County Family Court to advocate for the children. These volunteers play a crucial role in helping to find permanent homes for these children, ensuring that their needs are met and their rights are protected through a court-appointed support system. All proceeds from the “Come to the Table” event go directly to CASA.
The highlight of the “Come to the Table” event is the live tablescape auction that showcases beautifully designed tablescapes created and donated by local businesses, artisans, and other community members. Each tablescape features a complete table setting for at least four people and features a variety of themes. Many tablescapes include gift certificates, themed décor, and additional items chosen by the designers to increase their table’s value. Everything displayed on the table is included in the auction package.
Theme ideas for the tablescapes may include sports teams, seasonal decorations, garden themes, elegant dinner parties, pizza themes, wine and beer themes, artistic designs, or any other concept they would like to showcase. During the event, the tablescapes will be judged, and five awards will be presented for the following categories: Most Artistic, Most Whimsical, Most Elegant, Most Original, and a People’s Choice Award, which each guest can vote on.
Typically, around twenty-five tablescapes are donated for the event, and this year’s deadline for entry is March 25, 2026. The organizers hope to receive at least as many tablescapes as in previous years, if not more. As a token of appreciation, each tablescape designer will receive two complimentary admission tickets to the event. If you are interested in donating a tablescape, gather your ideas and submit your entry by March 25. Upon submission, you will receive a packet containing all the guidelines for creating your unique tablescape.
On May 14th, the doors will open at 5pm. As the evening unfolds, guests will have the opportunity to explore beautifully arranged tablescapes, each showcasing unique themes and creativity that might capture their interest. Guests can mingle with others while enjoying delicious hors d’oeuvres and a selection of beverages available at the cash bar. Additionally, there will be basket raffles, a door prize, and entertainment performed by several members of the JHS Chamber Orchestra.
After you’ve had time to browse, mingle, and enjoy refreshments, the exciting live tablescape auction will begin at 6:30pm. As in previous years, auctioneer Andrew Campbell will lead the highly anticipated tablescape auction until all the tablescapes have been sold.
The proceeds from the “Come to the Table” event will support CASA’s advocacy for neglected and abused children. CASA’s Fund Development Coordinator, Kelly Fiorella said, “We are excited about the event being held at a new location, which will create a fresh new vibe. We’d like to thank the organizations and community members that continue to participate in “Come to the Table” as well as the new supporters who help us in our mission to give these children hope for a better future.”
To attend “Come to the Table”, tickets can be purchased online or at the door on May 14th. For more information about CASA, tablescape entries, or other details, visit chautauquacasa.com or email Kelly at kfiorellacasa@gmail.com.
CASA invites you to donate a tablescape design for auction, with entries due by March 25th. They also hope to see you at the event on May 14th to support this important cause and enjoy a fun community event. Your contributions, big or small, can make a significant difference in these children’s lives.