Doug and Katia Vincent
Doug became a beekeeper in 1998 after noticing his garden was struggling to thrive. Realizing the urgent need for pollinators, he ordered bees—and within a year, not only did his garden flourish, but so did his passion for beekeeping. He joined the local bee club and began exploring the fascinating world of honeybees,
Katia joined Doug in this journey, bringing her entreprenuership and own deep appreciation for nature and community, Together, they recognized the incredible diversity and quality of local and varietal honeys and the need to educate and inspire others. Their shared vision led to the creation of their Beekind store leading to an inviting space that supports backyard beekeepers with supplies and equipment and offers consumable gifts such as honey, candles, teas, and more.
World-Class Honeys, Candles, Organic Teas
Located in West Sonoma County, Beekind is a family-run business committed to nurturing pollinators, producing pure, local honey, and sharing the art of beekeeping with the community.
From humble backyard beginnings to becoming a trusted name in sustainable hive care and handmade goods, Doug and Katia have grown Beekind into a vibrant destination. Their offerings—ranging from small-batch honeys, hand-poured beeswax candles to herbal teas and thoughtful gifts—reflect their dedication to the sweet, golden goodness and success of the honeybee and their keepers..
Whether you're looking to start your beekeeping journey or savor the simple pleasure of delicious honeys, Beekind brings together quality, care, and community in all they offer.
Sweeter than Honey
Bringing the magic of raw honey, beeswax candles, organic teas, and beekeeping to the greater community.
More about Beekeeper and Candlemaker Doug Vincent
Doug dove deep into the world of beekeeping through his involvement in local clubs, where he not only learned from others but became a champion for public education at fairs and events. He saw the need for a steady, accessible source of supplies for the growing community of backyard beekeepers—and a place where knowledge and passion could be shared.
In 2004, just before the Honeybee crash of 2004–2005, Doug and Katia opened the Beekind Honey and Beekeeping Supply Shop in Sebastopol. With the club’s support and the community’s growing interest, they transformed Beekind into a central hub for education, quality supplies, and local honey—offering support and hope to aspiring beekeepers during a critical time for pollinator health.
Together, Doug and Katia have remained devoted to the mission: keeping bees thriving and people connected to nature through hands-on learning, sustainable products, and community care.
A Legacy of Stewardship and Education
The once-small Sonoma County Beekeepers’ Association has now grown to over 500 members, with much of that growth rooted in a shared passion to protect the honeybee. Doug, Katia, their son Coral, grandchild Abel, and daughter Brie, along with many kind and wonderful employees have all contributed to Beekind's ongoing success. These folks work together crafting beeswax candles, bottling honey, stocking beekeeping supplies, and promote education for all.
Though Doug limits teaching classes due to business demands, the heart of Beekind beats strong with his and Katia’s commitment to pollinator protection. Whether you're tasting honey from local hives, shopping for handmade gifts, or learning how to keep bees yourself—at Beekind, you'll always find kind intention, quality, and care in every drop, taste, and product.