I want to be like Perry when I grow up.
I have to first!
Jen, I have not had to hire anyone, and don't really see the need to. I am "only" at around 65 hives and I believe this is my comfort zone (50-65).
I don't move them for pollination anymore, so that really almost eliminated my need for help.
My extracting set-up seems to work well on my own, and as I intergrate the last few pieces it will only get easier.
Cut-outs I usually need help, and most of the time the helper gets the bees.
If I tend to a few hives each day it is not hard to keep on top of things, but inspections throws things off in the spring.
It's nice when I have company, but that's more because I like talking so much!