Buzz, Sip, & Taste

An immersive bee experience inspired by the hive

• Learn the basics of bees and pollination
• View bees up close in a live observation hive
• Sip and taste mead while you learn
• Try honeys from all around the world

Why Bees Matter

• Bees are essential pollinators that support healthy ecosystems and the foods we enjoy every day
• Step into their world through an engaging, educational, and memorable experience

Perfect For:

• Curious Learners
• Couples
• Nature Enthusiasts
• Friends and Family

About the Presenters

• Natalie and Kevin Blake - Owners - First City Bee Company

Natalie and Kevin Blake are Ohio natives.  Their love of the ocean and sandy white beaches drew them to Pensacola, making it their new home.

Natalie, a former Day Spa owner and Radiation Therapist, took her love for helping people and teaching and transformed it into First City Bee Company along with her husband, Kevin.

Kevin, who is an Electrical Engineer by trade and also in the service industry of helping to light the world by providing a customized lighting experience to enhance the beauty of any space.

​Together, they took their knowledge of working with people and wanted to bring a unique experience to the heart of Pensacola for natives and tourists alike.  They took their love for wine, honey, design and teaching to create a unique experience for every customer at First City Bee Company.  They want the customer to have a relaxed and enjoyable experience while sampling on different honeys and meads from around the world and perusing the store for unique gift items.

​They also felt that teaching the customer about the Honeybee and honey, and its unique health benefits was very important!

So please stop by and come in for a one-of-a-kind experience.

We look forward to getting to know you!

• Melissa Kalis - Local Beekeeper

I’ve enjoyed working outside in the garden for as long as I can remember. Initially, growing fruits and vegetables and seeing the results of my labor were enough to motivate me each spring to start seeds and prepare for another growing year. 

Now as an adult, I realize the importance of supporting the environment and helping our pollinators so they can continue to play their role in our food chain.  I’ve been keeping bees for seven years while completing various education courses, enrolled in the UF IFAS Master Beekeeping Program since 2022. 

Currently maintaining 20+ hives, I enjoy bringing my observation hive to various schools and businesses to discuss bee health and hive behaviors with the goal of encouraging others to be aware of our pollinators or even begin their own beekeeping experience.

Please note that tickets are non-refundable and a minimum number of 10 attendees required for the class.  If the minimum number of attendees are not met, you will receive a full refund.