It seems a bit early to me, but I cannot help noticing the twinkling lights being strung in every shop and the thicker-than-normal ads in the paper indicating the holiday shopping season is upon us. As a keeper of bees who loves and has all things “bee”, I thought I’d throw out some unique ideas for the beekeeper on your holiday shopping list.
Beekeepers typically have smokers. If your beekeeper does not have a smoker, you should probably look into getting him one. If he does have a smoker, it’s fun to check your local flea market or antique shop or online resources for vintage smokers. They are usually only a few dollars in the right place and look very cool in your bee shed, on your mantle or in the garage.
Books are always a great idea! There are loads of beekeeping books on every topic. Some ideas include books on flowers that attract bees, books about natural beekeeping, books about apitherapy, honey recipe books, and so much more. My personal favorite book is the Beekeeper’s Bible. I love it because it’s thick and has an appealing vintage-feel with a great section on the history of keeping bees along with some recipes. It’s a substantial book and comes in a beautiful faux gilded hardcover.
Is the beekeeper you love always worried about his ladies in the winter time? Does he frequently check on them? Do you find him outside in the middle of a snowstorm tapping on bee hives and listening with his ear pressed against the cold wood box? Then, a stethoscope may be a great idea! I frequently use mine to listen for the faint hum of bees huddled for warmth on the coldest of winter days. It’s a reassuring sound to hear and I find myself reaching for the stethoscope often just so I can sleep without worry about the striped ladies.
Tee shirts are always fun! There are all sorts of crazy beekeeping tee shirts.
Stocking stuffers! Think bee socks and bee jewelry. A quick search of the web will bring loads of ideas for socks and accessories. Check out Etsy.com for some homemade ideas.
My personal favorite holiday gift idea for the beekeeper who has everything is a gift registration to the Kalamazoo Bee Club Bee School! I go every year and take my entire family. It is an amazing experience. I learn so much and have met so many fellow beekeeping friends and mentors every year. There’s nothing like being in a room of like-minded people for an entire day. If your beekeeper has everything, this is a great gift.
Happy Holiday Shopping!
Love the new site and all the Equipment things, would really like a T-Shirt with a bee head on it. Where?