Here is one design for you. I didn't go playful or a more graphic element because your stylistic sliders were not on the 'playful' side so much.
I have been a beekeeper for many years, I had to give it up a few years ago from a bad reaction, always thinking about the honey bees though, planting flowers that attract them and work to keep the community informed about the problems with chemicals and the such that are causing colony collapse. I could talk about honey bees from sun up to sun down. Since you are in the same area if you like I could add bluebonnet flowers in the illustration..I doubt anyone would understand the Tallow wood tree. For now I just showed the hives in the background and they can be made more prominent. the style of the bee is more realistic. I think so often the graphics of a bumble bee are used for honey bees. I could add some small silhouettes of maybe some farm animals on the hill...not too prominent but visible.
One thing that would be helpful, from a marketing stand point...to stay away from the graphic style bee that will confuse you with Burt Bees....I think you would want something that is distinguishable and unique for you.
I will check back with you in the morning for any input that you may have for me.