Florida Sweetness: A Weekend of Wins at Bee College

Written By Mary Catella

Some moments feel like milestones, and this was one of them.

After attending the Spring 2026 Bee College at the UF/IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory in Gainesville, Florida, we came home with something special…

Two entries. Two awards.

And more importantly, a deeper confirmation that what we’re building is resonating far beyond our local community.

Two for Two at the Show

At this year’s Honey Show, both entries submitted by Jenna earned 2nd place honors:

  • 🥈 Needle Craft: Our innovative women’s beekeeping suit

  • 🥈 Black Jar Honey: Jenna’s honey, judged solely on taste

Two completely different categories with one shared outcome…recognition.

Why This Matters

Bee College, hosted by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, brings together beekeepers from across the region, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

The Honey Show isn’t just for display, it’s judged. Which means these wins aren’t about aesthetics or storytelling.

They’re about craft, function, and quality.

  • The suit was evaluated as a piece of technical craftsmanship

  • The honey was judged blind, based on taste alone

That distinction matters because it reinforces something we’ve believed from the beginning: Thoughtful design and real-world performance speak for themselves.

From Concept to Recognition

Not long ago, this suit existed as an idea sparked during a conversation about frustration.

Now, it’s being worn by women across the country and recognized in spaces that value function, innovation, and execution.

To see it placed in a competitive setting like this is more than exciting…it’s deeply validating.

More Than a Win

Of course, we’re proud, but what matters most is what this represents:

  • Women’s needs in beekeeping are being acknowledged

  • Design and functionality are finally being taken seriously

  • There’s space for innovation in an industry rooted in tradition

And we’re just getting started.

Experience the Difference

Award-winning design, field-tested performance, created for women who do the work.

Explore the suit and see what sets Jeometry Beewear™ apart: https://jeometrybeewear.com/shop

Looking Ahead

To everyone we met, connected with, and shared this experience alongside, thank you.

And to the UF/IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory for hosting such an incredible event…

We’ll see you next time! 💛🐝

Mary Catella
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