A Sweet Escape: The Story of Lawyers Turned Beekeepers in Tundzha
In the lush landscapes of Tundzha Municipality, nestled at the foot of the Monastery Heights, lies a testament to the transformative power of passion and the call of nature. Diana and Plamen, a couple with backgrounds in law and logistics, embarked on a journey in 2013 that would not only redefine their lives but also enrich the lives of those around them. Transitioning from their professional careers, they founded a honey farm, embracing beekeeping as a way of life and a legacy for their children.
Their venture into beekeeping began as a curiosity, an experiment with five bee hives that blossomed into a profound connection with nature and an unwavering commitment to sustainable living. The challenges they faced, particularly the devastating loss of a significant portion of their bee population in 2016, underscored the fragility and resilience inherent in their chosen path. Yet, their determination to rebuild and expand their operations speaks volumes about their dedication to beekeeping and the preservation of nature's gifts.
The farm's adoption of mobile beekeeping practices highlights an innovative approach to producing a diverse array of honey types, from the elusive mann honey to the delicate flavors of acacia and lavender honey. This nomadic strategy, aligning with the blossoms' seasonality, showcases their adaptability and deep understanding of the bees' needs.
Beyond honey production, Diana and Plamen have ventured into creating an array of bee-derived cosmetic and medicinal products, incorporating the saffron they cultivate to enhance their offerings. This diversification not only exemplifies their entrepreneurial spirit but also their commitment to leveraging nature's bounty responsibly and creatively.
The couple's engagement with the Guests of Tundzha initiative opens their farm to visitors, offering an immersive educational experience that bridges the gap between consumers and the natural origins of the products they enjoy. Through workshops, demonstrations, and direct interactions with the bees, Diana and Plamen foster a deeper appreciation for beekeeping and the critical role bees play in our ecosystem.
Their story is a vivid reminder of the possibilities that unfold when we heed the call of our passions and the natural world. Diana and Plamen's journey from lawyers to beekeepers is not just about the transition to a different profession; it's about embracing a lifestyle that honors the earth, nurtures curiosity, and cultivates a legacy of sustainability and wonder for the next generation.
- #BeekeepingJourney
- #NaturePassion
- #SustainableLiving
- #HoneyFarmLife
- #EducationAndConservation
The article features Diana and Plamen, a couple who turned their passion for beekeeping into a way of life at their honey farm located in the Tundzha Municipality, Yambol Region. Despite their professional backgrounds in law and logistics, they established their honey farm in 2013 and have embraced beekeeping with a desire to live closer to nature and raise their children in such an environment. Participating in the Guests of Tundzha initiative, they open their farm to visitors, offering educational insights into beekeeping and the production of honey. The farm faced challenges, notably in 2016 when they experienced significant bee losses, but they have since recovered and expanded their operations. They practice mobile beekeeping to produce various types of honey and also create cosmetic products using bee pollen, propolis, and the saffron they grow. The couple is dedicated to direct retail sales and education, especially for children, providing hands-on experiences with beekeeping and honey production at their farm.
FAQ
What inspired Diana and Plamen to start beekeeping?
- After returning to their native Yambol and seeking a family business close to nature, Diana and Plamen were inspired to start beekeeping as a hobby that eventually turned into their way of life.
What challenges have they faced in beekeeping?
- In 2016, they experienced a significant setback when the majority of their bees died, reducing their hives from 70 to 20. Despite this, they persevered and have rebuilt their number of hives.
What types of honey do they produce?
- Through mobile beekeeping, they produce various types of honey, including rare mann honey, acacia honey, and lavender honey, by moving their hives to different locations according to the season and available vegetation.
What other products do they offer?
- Besides honey and bee pollen, they create cosmetic and drugstore products infused with propolis tincture and saffron, such as creams, soaps, and sprays for the nose and throat.
How do they sell their products?
- Focusing on direct retail sales and participation in farm exhibitions, they have shifted away from wholesale due to low prices and now prefer to sell their products directly to consumers.
What educational activities do they provide for visitors?
- As part of the Guests of Tundzha initiative, Diana and Plamen welcome visitors, especially children, to their farm to learn about beekeeping, observe bees in a specially prepared beehive with windows, participate in workshops to create beeswax candles, and taste fresh honey directly from the hives.
