Beekeeping | Soku

Backyard beekeeping plays a vital role in supporting both local ecosystems and community resilience. In densely populated urban areas, honeybees face increasing challenges from habitat loss, pesticides, and environmental stress. But even a single hive in a backyard or community garden can make a significant impact — not just for the bees, but for the people and plants around them. Small-scale, community-focused beekeeping helps protect pollinator populations while educating and reconnecting neighbors to the natural world right outside their doors.

I’ve been keeping bees in the city for over a decade, and throughout that time, I’ve seen firsthand how these tiny creatures can spark curiosity, teach patience, and nourish both the body and spirit. I’ve taught 4H beekeeping for children, consulted with adults on hive management and bee husbandry, and expanded my own apiary across Orange County — placing hives in urban backyards and community spaces where pollinators are most needed.

One of the most tangible benefits of backyard beekeeping is the harvest: organic, raw honey and bee pollen that are truly local to the environment we live in. Raw honey contains enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients that are often lost in commercial processing, and local bee pollen can offer immune-supportive properties unique to your area. When harvested responsibly, these products not only taste better — they support your health and reflect the seasonal rhythms of your own neighborhood.

Beyond honey, I also harvest propolis and beeswax from my hives, which I use to create small-batch, all-natural body care and hygiene products. These ingredients are rich in protective and healing properties — nature’s own solutions to modern skincare.

In addition to hive mentorship, I offer consultations for planting bee-friendly and pollinator-supporting gardens specifically suited to our Southern California climate. Whether you want to grow a haven for pollinators or you're dreaming of your first hive, I’m here to help guide the journey.

If you’re interested in experiencing beekeeping firsthand, starting your own hive, or learning more about how to support pollinators in your own yard, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to connect and help you get started.

Beekeeping

Consulting

Maryanne M. - Beekeeping Student

I sought out Courtney’s mentorship when I was ready to lean into beekeeping but didn’t know where to start. Study lessons in her apiary, FaceTimes during (sometimes panicked) inspections, she connects you to knowledge and intuition. She’s also an incredible mentor, there’s no stupid question, curiosity is met with a smile, and celebrates me every step of the way. Passing down the honor of what it truly means to be a keeper.

Celeste - Beekeeping Student

Courtney is the best! I have only had a hive for a few months and she’s been patiently teaching as we let the hive do its thing. She is mentoring me on the way. I had been looking for a mentor for years and am so blessed to have this knowledge coming right to me! No better way to learn than hands on!

Kaylan - Bee Removal

I’ll never forget the day I met Courtney — it started with a backyard dilemma and ended with one of the most unexpectedly inspiring experiences of my life. We had a bee hive in our Costa Mesa yard that needed to be removed, but I was determined to do it without harming the bees. That’s when my coworker JT overheard me and said, “You have to meet my sister, Courtney.” From the moment she arrived, Courtney brought a calm, knowledgeable energy that completely changed the way I saw bees. I’ll admit, I was a little scared at first — okay, maybe more than a little — but she took the time to teach me about their importance, their behavior, and how incredible these little creatures really are. Watching her work with such care and respect for the hive was something I’ll never forget. What started as a bee removal turned into an educational, eye-opening experience — and the start of a special friendship. Courtney’s passion, patience, and kindness are truly one of a kind.