Louise’s Journey: Crafting Honey
Crafting Honey with Purpose and Passion
A Lifelong Connection to Nature
Louise’s journey into the world of beekeeping is one of devotion, inspired by a desire to protect the environment and advocate for pollinators. Her small-batch honey operation called Louisebees, isn’t just about the sweet end product—it’s a lifetime pursuit that aligns with her environmental consciousness, a passion instilled in her from a young age by her conservation-focused family. Growing up surrounded by barn owl breeding and wildlife preservation, Louise’s path was always destined to be one of protecting nature.
From Hobby to Devotion
She recalls the serendipitous moment when bees captured her heart. At a village fair with her daughter, she met a beekeeper and instantly felt drawn to these industrious, social creatures. Shortly after, she joined a local beekeeping course, learning the basics in the back of a supermarket. Her first colony quickly multiplied, and she soon found herself with nine hives, fully committed to a life with bees.
Louise’s approach to beekeeping is unique. She collaborates with other local beekeepers who might otherwise not sell their honey, ensuring that every jar she produces can be traced back to a specific hive.
The Louisebees Philosophy
Unlike large-scale operations, Louise refrains from automated processes and insists on hand-jarred honey labelled by hive origin. This approach not only maintains the honey’s authenticity but also highlights her mission to educate others on the importance of pollinators beyond just honeybees.
“People love honeybees,” Louise says, “but my focus is on all pollinators, from solitary bees to hoverflies. These species are crucial indicators of our environment’s health, yet they often lack the same level of support.”
For Louise, each jar of honey symbolises more than a sweet treat; it’s a testament to the hard work of her bees and a commitment to using everything they produce. From beeswax candles to her handmade “honeygar,” a cider vinegar and honey blend, she ensures that nothing goes to waste. As demand for her products has grown, Louise has consciously resisted the urge to scale up her operation. “For me, it’s about balance,” she reflects. “If I can’t keep up, I won’t compromise on quality or sustainability.”
Today, you can find Louisebees honey at a few select locations, including Pipp & Co. café, where she supplies a seasonal selection. She also attends artisan markets like the Frome Independent and the Warminster Street Market, where her honey consistently sells out.
Inspiring Through Education
She’s dreaming up a “Walk with Bees” blog, where she writes from the bees’ perspective, letting readers ‘fly a mile on tiny wings.’ Through each post, readers get a glimpse of what it’s like to be a bee—buzzing through fields, foraging for nectar, communicating with the hive, and playing an essential role in nature.
Her reverence for bees goes beyond just beekeeping—it’s about sharing the joy and significance of pollinators with as many people as possible. Whether through a jar of honey or a simple conversation, Louise hopes to inspire others to appreciate and protect these vital creatures.
Small Business Synergy
Her story with Bettina and Mario from Pipp & Co. is a beautiful example of small businesses lifting one another, creating connections grounded in passion and shared purpose.
Where to Support Louisebees
Support Louise at Pipp & Co Café where you can buy her delicious jars of Louisebees honey: perfect as a gift for Christmas.
If you can’t visit Pipp & Co, find Louisebees honey at these upcoming markets:
- The Frome Independent: Sunday, 1st December, 10am-3pm (outside Little Walcot restaurant on Catherine Hill)
- Warminster Christmas Market & Light-Up Event: Thursday, 30th November, 10am-6pm (top of High Street near Lloyds Bank)
- Foodie Christmas Shopping Event: Friday, 29th December, 10:30am-6:30pm at Church Farm, Rode BA11 6AA
For more information, visit www.louisebees.com.