Amber Hefner is a native Texan and a much-loved Freytag’s Florist designer. Amber is truly a gifted artist whose style ranges from classical and elegant to lush and whimsical. Music plays a large role in Amber’s life which is evident in the harmonic synergy of her designs. Here is Amber’s Freytag’s Florist Designer Spotlight interview along with some of her fanciful creations.

Where did you grow up? I’m from Sweetwater, Texas, about 250 miles northwest of Austin.

As a kid, did you get into trouble? What was the worst thing you did? I was a pretty good kid. I didn’t really “get into trouble” much. I got bored during a shopping trip to Winn-Dixie once and took my little sister for a ride in one of the wheelchairs they provide for free. We rammed into a pickle jar display and it came crashing down on us.  I can’t recall if we had to pay for it, but it was a huge mess.

 What do you do in your spare time? I play guitar and do artsy things. I really enjoy craft time with my daughter. We just finished a painting together this week. I also love to cook. Down-home style is my specialty, anything fried, oh, and enchiladas. My daughter loves my enchiladas.

How long have you lived in Austin, and now that you are here, what’s most Austintacious thing you’ve done so far?  I’ve only been in Austin for a year. Even though I’m from Texas, I just recently learned to two-step at the Broken Spoke.

How long have you been a floral designer? I’ve been a floral designer for eight years. I originally studied to be a pharmaceutical technician, but after graduation I had a hard time finding an open position in my small town. My aunt managed a flower shop in Sweetwater and I went to work with her.  I loved it immediately, and I never looked back. I have been designing for Freytag’s for one year.

What inspires you? My mom is a huge inspiration to me. She’s so crafty. I get a lot of my artistic flair from her. That and learning from everything she’s been through has made me the mom that I am.

When are you completely satisfied with your work?  I don’t know that I am ever completely satisfied with my work. I always want to do more. But I feel proud when my peers admire an arrangement I designed. 

With which flower do you enjoy working with the most?  I love Peonies. They’re so pretty, fragrant and fluffy.  They are very elegant flowers.

What’s your favorite Amy’s flavor?  Mexican Vanilla topped with Snickers.

And your most treasured possession?  My Pink Burst Kona acoustic guitar.

Festive

Which Freytag’s arrangement do you swoon over?
Festive is my favorite Freytag’s arrangement.