Hi, I'm Ashley Bell, a proud Virginia Journeyman beekeeper and founder of Bell & Bee Apiary. Bell & Bee was born out of a passion for beekeeping and a desire to share knowledge with fellow enthusiasts.

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For many years, I had an interest in bees but never found the time to pursue beekeeping. In 2020, with the weight of the pandemic, transitioning to a fully remote job, and managing a high-stress workload, I turned to beekeeping as a way to find balance and peace. For a year, I studied under a Virginia Master Beekeeper, absorbing everything I could about the craft before finally bringing bees home to my yard.

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Now, I run anywhere between 5 and 10 hives, am a board member of TidewaterBeekeepers Association, and a regional rep for the VA State Beekeepers Association. Beekeeping is my happy place; I find solace in the steady hum of the hive. Bee yards became a reliably peaceful place to retreat, and I've had a special relationship with bees ever since. Beyond the hives, I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned with others and helping them experience the same rewards. Beekeeping is more than just a hobby; it's a journey that connects us to nature and, when done right, brings out the best in both bees and beekeepers. Let's grow together!