Hi there! We’re Todd and Pepper Smith, beekeepers based in beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas.

 

With over a decade of hands-on experience, we’ve grown from one inherited hive to managing more than 45—depending on the week!

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We’re both in our early 60s and have spent our careers deeply rooted in sustainability. Pepper recently retired after 20 years certifying homes through the LEED program with the U.S. Green Building Council and continues to help companies worldwide on their zero waste journeys. Todd’s background is in residential construction, computer hardware R&D, and woodworking with reclaimed wood. We’re both Arkansas Master Naturalists, and Pepper is also a Master Gardener. Simply put-nature and sustainability shape everything we do.

 

Our beekeeping journey started like many others-eager, but unsure of what to do first.

 

From struggling with apiary placement to figuring out pest treatments and seasonal hive care, we made plenty of mistakes along the way. What we didn’t find in all the books and videos was someone to just show us where to start.

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That’s why we’re passionate about sharing what we’ve learned. Today, we plant intentionally for honeybees and native pollinators on our farm, and we teach bee classes at a local eco-resort—giving people the chance to see bees up close and learn in a hands-on way.

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If you're curious about where and how to begin your own beekeeping journey—without the overwhelm—we’d love to help. Click the “Subscribe Now” button at the top of the page to receive our weekly newsletter on how to start beekeeping.

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Looking forward to helping you get started on your beekeeping journey!

—Todd & Pepper 🐝