Bill's Bees

Bill’s Bees began over 40 years ago when Bill took on a few colonies of honeybees to complete the requirements for the Boy Scouts of America Bee Keeping Merit Badge. After a career in aerospace, Bill moved to a 700-acre equestrian ranch where he revived his beekeeping passion, leading to the founding of Bill’s Bees in 1994. Initially selling honey at craft fairs, Bill expanded to the South Pasadena Farmers Market as his hive numbers grew. Clyde joined the journey in 1995 after a swarm of bees took up residence in his backyard. The two met through the Los Angeles County Beekeepers Association and began consolidating their hives and knowledge in 2003. Bill’s Bees became fully incorporated in 2012, and the team has since grown to include family members and additional staff.

The bees are located in the Angeles National Forest, where no pesticides or fertilizers are applied in the bees' gathering area. They produce unique honeys like Black Button Sage and Buckwheat, and are also taken to almond and orange orchards for pollination, resulting in distinct honey varieties. The farm emphasizes chemical-free practices and the health of their bees, ensuring that their products are as natural as the bees make them.

Bill’s Bees was featured in the August 2008 issue of 'Los Angeles Magazine' as the 'Best Local Honey.' In addition to honey, they produce handmade beeswax soaps, lip balm, lotion bars, and candles. The bees are hired pollinators, traveling to various crops like almonds, oranges, and avocados, and returning to collect local honey varieties. The team includes family members and dedicated staff who contribute to various aspects of the business, from sales to beekeeping.