By EMILY SPARACINO / Staff Writer

HOOVER – Those who attended the 2016 Hannah Home Shelby Auxiliary Spring Tablescapes Luncheon at Metro Church of God on April 6 had the pleasure of sitting at tables set with unique dinnerware and themed decorations as they listened to keynote speaker Patricia Barnes, the founder and CEO of Sister Schubert’s baking company.

Barnes, more commonly known as “Sister Schubert,” spoke about her life and the formation of her company, which is famous for its rolls. Prior to her speech, she visited with attendees and signed copies of her memoir cookbook, “Celebrations of the Heart,” before the luncheon started.

Thirty table designs created by local volunteers comprised this year’s Tablescapes, which serves as an annual fundraiser for King’s Home Shelby, a Christ-centered shelter for women and children fleeing domestic abuse and other problematic circumstances.

“These ladies always amaze me,” Tablescapes Chairwoman Tamara Moser said. “They are so talented. The tables are gorgeous this year.”

Volunteer designer Peggy Devane said she devoted much time and effort to creating and executing a design for her table this year, and drew inspiration from a picture in a magazine of a centerpiece constructed with cake plates and flowers.

“I’ve been doing Tablescapes for years,” Devane said of the event. “It does take work to do it.”

Several tables reflected a patriotic theme, and others were bedecked with spring and summer-oriented decorations.

Attendees cast cash “votes” for their favorite tables to determine the Tablescapes winner. Proceeds from table votes, a silent auction and event ticket sales go toward operational expenses at King’s Home Shelby.

Prodigal Pottery, a line of pottery made by King’s Home residents under the direction of Jamie Ankenbrandt, was available for purchase at the event.

Prodigal Pottery’s usual mugs and ornaments were accompanied by the new jewelry line.

HHSA sold about 175 tickets for this year’s event, Moser said.