About Us - Bernell Bees | Our Story & Beekeeping Philosophy

Our Story

Bernell Bees was built on three generations of passion, curiosity, and respect for the honeybee. The legacy began in 1951 when a 12-year-old boy named William Bernell Weinerth discovered his love for beekeeping after noticing his neighbor's hives in Burbank, California. What started as a childhood fascination soon became a lifelong devotion.

William eventually managed 90 colonies across Ventura County with his business partner, Jack Gazdik. After nearly ten years, he sold the operation to chase a new dream—cultivating the perfect strain of honeybee, a project that still fuels his passion today.

His expertise was handed down through generations, eventually reaching his grandson, Joshua. After years of mentorship, Joshua transformed that knowledge into a modern beekeeping business of his own. In 2020, with one colony and a vision, he founded Bernell Bees.

Today, Bernell Bees has grown to more than 150 colonies and proudly serves Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. More importantly, it serves as a home for community education, environmental awareness, and responsible beekeeping practices that will continue long into the future.

Bernell Bees is more than a business—it is a family legacy built on stewardship, sustainability, and a deep love for the honeybee.

Meet the Beekeeper

Thomas Bernell - Master Beekeeper

Growing up surrounded by the gentle hum of bees, Thomas Bernell learned the art of beekeeping from his mother Margaret and grandmother's stories about his grandfather Harold. What began as weekend chores helping tend the hives evolved into a lifelong passion and profession. Thomas earned his Master Beekeeper certification from the state beekeeping association and has dedicated his career to both producing exceptional honey and advocating for pollinator conservation.

"Every time I open a hive, I'm reminded of the remarkable intelligence and cooperation of these tiny creatures," Thomas reflects. "Bees have been producing honey for millions of years, perfecting their craft long before humans walked the earth. My job isn't to improve on their work—it's to create the conditions where they can thrive and to honor their labor by handling their honey with the utmost care and respect."

Beyond managing the apiaries, Thomas regularly speaks at local schools and community events about the importance of pollinators. He's passionate about educating the next generation of environmental stewards and welcomes questions from curious minds of all ages. Under his leadership, Bernell Bees has become a model for sustainable, ethical beekeeping practices in the region.

Our Mission

"To produce the finest raw honey while practicing sustainable beekeeping that protects and nurtures pollinator populations for future generations."

Quality First

We never compromise on quality. Our honey is raw, unfiltered, and minimally handled to preserve all the natural enzymes, pollen, and nutrients that make honey a superfood.

Bee Health Priority

Happy, healthy bees make the best honey. We prioritize bee welfare in every decision, from hive placement to harvest methods, ensuring our colonies thrive year after year.

Environmental Stewardship

Our apiaries serve as sanctuaries for pollinators and contribute to local biodiversity. We maintain pesticide-free zones and plant diverse flora to support not just honeybees, but all pollinators.

Community Education

We believe knowledge empowers action. Through workshops, tours, and outreach programs, we share our expertise and inspire others to support pollinator conservation.

About Bernell Bees