Three Minutes with … Kris Bennett of Hermiston

Published 5:00 am Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Kris Bennett, and I am a flower designer, event venue owner and a nana to seven grandchildren.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in western Washington, editor of the newspaper and yearbook, daffodil princess and in 4-H showing Hereford cattle. I went to Washington State University, took Ag Econ and then married and moved to Hermiston.

What are a few of your hobbies?

The gardens and flowers could be called hobbies. They say if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life, and I guess that’s me.

How do you spend your free time?

We visit our kids who don’t live here locally and visited Longwood gardens in Philadelphia last year. Every so many years, the entire family vacations together (there’s always a garden to see), which is fun, and I look forward to that. In the summer it’s nice to sit on the patio in the evening or in the winter it is nice to sit by the fire, relax and plan for spring.

How would you describe yourself?

Loyal, honest, try my best and not one to give up. I’m focused on what I’m doing and like to cross things off the list. I don’t think I come across as warm and fuzzy, but I try to be very thoughtful and helpful.

What is something you’re passionate about?

I’m passionate about my family, flowers, providing great customer service and Hermiston. I’ve lived here for over 40 years, so you learn to love it.

What are a few of your proudest accomplishments?

Being married for almost 45 years. Proud of our three grown children and wonderful grandkids. What Doug and I have been able to accomplish in the gardens and building my flower business, KRISanthemums. I was the chair of the board of the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce last year and we all worked hard to get the chamber into the building on Highway 395.

What do you like most about the community you live in?

Our friends and the people in Hermiston, they are all very giving and supportive. It’s nice to see the growth happening, people coming to Hermiston and loving it. I do like the sunshine and warm temperatures (as we are in snow and frozen fog today!).