Keeper of Bees and Dreams

Aloha! I’m Manda Tollefson, apiculturist, nature enthusiast, and passionate protector of the 'aina here on beautiful Kaua’i.

Originally from the rolling plains of Kansas, I traded wheat fields for tropical wildflowers almost 25 years ago. In 2002, I stumbled into beekeeping quite by chance while taking on a side job painting bee boxes.  It was then that I met my mentor and soon after visited my first apiary.

Opening a hive and hearing the gentle hum of the bees felt like coming home — a calling I couldn’t ignore. Bees quickly became my main focus, and by 2003, I was doing local swarm removals and building my first apiary. What started as a passion has grown into a sustainable beekeeping business rooted deeply in respect for the environment and the vital role pollinators play in our fragile ecosystem.

Beekeeping allows me to work in harmony with nature’s rhythms — a lifelong commitment I cherish.

During the pandemic, I earned my Master Beekeeping Certificate through the University of Montana’s program. More recently, my love for bees led me to Portugal, where I studied at the Apitherapy Academy and explored the healing powers of bee venom therapy.

When I’m not tending to the bees, you might find me rock hopping with my daughter to our favorite waterfalls, walking my dogs on the beach, dancing at concerts, or training for a half-marathon.

Mahalo nui loa for supporting my small, buzzing business — I’m truly grateful!