If you were to ask a dozen beekeepers why they got into beekeeping, how they maintain their hives or what’s the most challenging part of keeping bees, you’d get a dozen different answers.
That said, every beekeeper is quick to tout the multifaceted joys of beekeeping and the positive economic impact that supporting earth-based businesses has on them and their community. As for the honey? That’s just the cherry on top when it comes to beekeeping.
A Friendly Reminder: Bees are essential pollinators and should be treated with care and respect. Successful beekeeping requires training, mentorship, and proper hive management—not simply collecting bees from the wild. If you’re interested in becoming a beekeeper, connect with local experts or beekeeping organizations to learn safe, responsible practices that protect both you and the bees.
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Sera Petras Photography
Learning the Craft: Lakeview Apiary
From a single hive to a thriving local business, Lakeview Apiary is producing hyper-local honey while supporting farms, retailers, and pollinators across Virginia’s Northern Neck.
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Sera Petras Photography
Lessons from the Hive: France Family Apiary
What began with an unexpected swarm has grown into a thriving beekeeping operation at France Family Apiary, where stewardship, education, and a passion for pollinators shape every season's harvest.
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Gabrielle Allen
Supplying Success: Hive Five Apiary & Bee Supply
Through handcrafted hive equipment, mentorship, and years of experience, Hive Five Apiary and Bee Supply is helping beekeepers build healthier colonies and stronger pollinator populations.
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Sera Petras Photography
The Beekeepers Toolkit
Connect with local beekeeper associations across the Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg.
