Meet the Founders of Me & the Bees Lemonade

It is rare to find a business that bloomed from a childhood sting, but the story of Me & the Bees Lemonade is as sweet as it is unconventional. What began as a simple lemonade stand in Austin, Texas, was sparked by a somewhat jarring event—at just four years old, founder Mikaila Ulmer was stung by a bee twice in a single week. Instead of retreating from the garden, Mikaila became fascinated by the essential role these little pollinators play in our world. With the help of a cherished 1940s cookbook passed down by her great-granny Helen, she combined a love for tradition with a modern, bee-friendly twist, swapping refined sugars for local honey and adding a touch of flaxseed to her recipe. That early curiosity quickly grew into a mission-driven venture that has spent the last fifteen years proving that refreshment can be a force for good. What started as a local project soon caught the attention of the community, and with the encouragement of local mentors and a memorable appearance on Shark Tank, the brand blossomed into a household name found in retailers across the country. Through it all, the heart of the business has remained firmly planted in the soil where it started. Mikaila has evolved from a young entrepreneur into a passionate advocate, using her voice and her bestselling book to teach the next generation that you are never too young to dream big or make a meaningful impact. The soul of Me & the Bees lies in its commitment to better ingredients and a healthier planet. Every batch of their award-winning lemonade is crafted with real lemon juice and natural sweeteners, intentionally keeping sugar levels low and avoiding anything artificial. Beyond the bottle, the company is deeply invested in the health of our environment. They have established a non-profit foundation specifically dedicated to saving our bee population and have recently transitioned to sustainable, 100% recyclable aluminum packaging, ensuring that their environmental footprint is as light as their flavors are bright. This is more than just a beverage brand; it is a testament to the power of purpose-led business. Whether through supporting pollinator conservation or sharing the joys of social entrepreneurship in classrooms, the team remains driven by the same spirit that started it all in that Texas backyard. We are so proud to share their story, celebrating a product that honors its heritage while constantly reaching toward a more sustainable future. Every sip is an invitation to join their community of bee-lievers—a collective of supporters who understand that when you choose a drink with intention, you are helping to build a much sweeter world for everyone.