The Hive Taproom

On a warm and golden summer Friday evening, I had the joy of photographing the official launch of Swaggle, a brand new product from The Hive Taproom in East Troy, WI. If you haven’t visited The Hive yet, it’s a truly special spot: part meadery, part music venue, and part community hub. This event captured everything they’re about, and it was so much fun for all. I got to provide lifestyle beverage brand photography, and it was a perfect event for it.

Ayla and Tim, the husband and wife team behind The Hive, have created something really unique in East Troy. Ayla, who is also a beekeeper, brings her love of bees, sustainability, and natural ingredients into everything they make. Swaggle is their newest creation, a sparkling and refreshing “better for you” beverage made with honey, fruit, tea, and botanicals. It’s light, crisp, and was clearly a hit with the crowd that night.

Swaggle Launch: Lifestyle Beverage Brand Photography

The launch event was just as joyful and laid-back as you’d imagine. Families and groups gathered outside the taproom, enjoyed a live screenprinting artist, and friends raised their Swaggle cans in celebration. The Hive’s patio and outdoor space were buzzing with conversation, laughter, and warm weather vibes. As always, they made space for everyone. They have regulars who treat The Hive like their second home, and first-timers discovering this gem for the first time.

It was a true pleasure to capture these moments for Ayla and Tim. They genuinely love their community and are always looking for ways to bring people together local beverages and fun. Swaggle fits right in with that mission: refreshing, creative, and a little bit unexpected. And what an experience to peek behind the brand and see everything from beekeeping to their outstanding service.

I highly recommend stopping by The Hive Taproom to sip something new, catch some live music, and stay a while. You’ll leave happier, and probably with a few cans of Swaggle in hand.