Our First Hive & A New Way of Seeing Bees

We built our first hive using the Layens-style design with a gabled roof. It was smaller, simple, and honestly… just beautiful sitting on the land. At first, I thought beehives needed to be tucked far away, hidden from daily life. But we’ve learned they can be part of your garden, part of your rhythm, part of your everyday view.

Our bees are busy, focused, and peaceful. We respect their space—avoiding their direct flight path—and in return, they simply go about their work. It’s become something we observe, not fear.

How We Naturally Attract and Raise Bees

One of the most magical parts of this journey has been attracting our own local swarm.

We build small swarm boxes with a few frames inside and add a touch of lemongrass—something bees are naturally drawn to. These boxes are placed up in trees, where scout bees come to inspect the space. If they approve, within a few days, a full swarm arrives.

Watching this happen is unforgettable.

The bees gather in what’s called a “beard,” clustering together before slowly making their way into the box. One by one, they enter, building their new home. It’s calm, organized, and incredibly beautiful to witness.

Once they begin building comb and bringing in nectar, we transfer those frames into their permanent Layens hive—carefully, gently, and always with respect.