The bees found me first.
I’m Lauren, the beekeeper behind Just Me and The Bees in Charleston, South Carolina. I didn’t set out to become a beekeeper. In 2016, a swarm of honey bees turned up under my house, and instead of having them exterminated, I wanted to find a way to save them. That unexpected encounter changed everything.
One swarm changed the story
What began with curiosity quickly became a passion for learning about honey bees, caring for colonies, and sharing what I discovered along the way. Beekeeping has a way of keeping you humble. Every inspection is a chance to notice something new, ask better questions, and learn from the bees themselves.
It’s about the bees, not just the honey
For me, healthy bees come first. That means paying attention to colony health, genetics, and the challenges honey bees face, including varroa mites. It also means helping people understand how their own yards, gardens, and everyday choices can support pollinators.
Supporting the bees, one hive at a time
Today, Just Me and The Bees is how I bring that passion into the Lowcountry community. Through Host a Hive partnerships, locally raised nucs, mentoring, and education, I help more people connect with bees and the work of caring for them.
I’m not here to pretend beekeeping is always picture-perfect. It’s fascinating, sometimes messy, and always worth learning more about. I want this space to show the real moments, the real work, and the reason I keep coming back to the hives.
Come be part of the story
Whether you’re curious about hosting a hive, starting with a nuc, or simply making your yard a little friendlier to pollinators, there’s a place for you here.