QUEEN BEE

ALINA SUTTON moved to the United States at 20, spending 17 years in skin care before discovering her passion for flowers and herbs. What began as a small garden in her Chicago home inspired her family’s move to Barrington in 2021 to start Luna Bee Lavender Farm—turning a dream of lavender fields into reality, deepening their connection to nature. By 2022, Sutton added six beehives, transitioning her from business development manager to gardener and beekeeper.

Most rewarding part of what you do? There’s something empowering about being able to wear a business suit during the week and then a beekeeper suit and gardening gloves on the weekends. As the Midwest regional manager for a cosmeceutical line, I have the opportunity to teach, inspire, and support thousands of licensed estheticians to follow their dreams and become successful business owners in their industry, Then, on weekends, I immerse myself in tending to my lavender garden and beehives, finding connection with nature. For me, it’s the perfect balance.

How should women support other women? Women should uplift one another, recognizing that by helping someone else succeed, they ultimately elevate themselves.

Definition of success? Success means different things to different people, but it’s not the key to happiness. Rather, happiness is the key to success. When you love what you’re doing, success will naturally follow.

Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Don’t give up when things get tough. When things get tough, it means you’re getting closer to something big. Embrace the challenges—they’re part of the journey to your goals. Every hurdle is a step closer to something amazing.

What did you dream of doing when you were younger? I’ve always admired my grandfather’s gardening in Romania. Moving to the city in the United States felt worlds apart, but now I’m following in his footsteps and living my dream.

For more information, visit lunabeefarm.com and follow @lunabeefarm on Instagram.