About
Hanna Honey Farms is a locally owned and operated business out of Pick City.
Thomas (TJ) Hanna is a third-generation beekeeper. His grandpa, his dad as well
as three of uncles are all in the bee business. The main focus of the business is rooted in honey production, however over the
last year, TJ and his wife, Ioana alongside their two little “helpers” Madison and
Audrey, started growing the candle and honey bottling side. While most of the
honey gets sold to large packing companies, selling local is always the goal. The
bees are distributed alongside western side of Lake Sakakawea where clover and
other wildflowers are abundant. After harvesting the honey, the remaining wax is
cleaned up and melted into liquid. The liquid beeswax is then poured into molds
for candles. Beeswax is also mixed with essential oils and other natural ingredients
to make body butter and lip balm. Beeswax had a longstanding use in skin care as
it prevents water loss and keeps the skin hydrated.
“The goods” are sold at a few local stores, such as Sodas and Things (Underwood) Little’s and Scott’s Bait & Tackle (Pick City). Joining Pride of Dakota helped increase the exposure of honey and candles at the larger vendor show events in Bismarck and Minot and have also joined the Big One Arts and Craft Show.
