The Backyard Bee Keeper

Photo by Ashley Corbin-Teich
Photo by Ashley Corbin-Teich
After two allergic reactions, Richards makes sure to wear full protective clothing every time she tends her hives.
Photo by Ashley Corbin-Teich
Richards uses the bellows to get her smoker going;
Photo by Ashley Corbin-Teich
Richards checks every frame from each of her three hives to make sure the bees are healthy and being productive;
Photo by Ashley Corbin-Teich
a honey-filled frame from one of Richards’ hives.
Photo by Ashley Corbin-Teich
At her basement worktable, Richards adjusts a silicone mold before the freshly poured beeswax begins to set.