Opens Google, starts to type in the search box… where to buy weed, how to buy weed, how will weed make me feel, can I drink weed, can I eat weed, is weed bad?
Newbie, noob, novice, new, beginner. If any of these words describe your dispensary experience this may sound all too familiar.
But, cannabis does not need to consist of spending hours on google.
We promise there is a better way.
For a cannabis beginner, Google is a great first step to gather intel, but ICYMI ecommerce doesn’t really exist in the cannabis industry. That means eventually you need to get up from your keyboard and go enter a real store. Maybe even talk to a real person, gasp! . Don’t worry, no one will ask you if you’re new here, and if they do it will be to welcome you with open arms. If they don’t? Go find another dispensary to shop at.
Cannabis has been around since 2800 BC, yet it’s new. In a way, we’re all new here. The form factor, the effects, the flavors, the mg per serving, the disclosures, the companies, the branding, it’s all new. Everyone is learning and growing alongside one another. The individuals who are the most knowledgeable are the ones who communicate with customers, sales reps, vendors, brand ambassadors, and others in the industry on a daily basis, you may know them as Budtenders. Don’t feel embarrassed to ask questions and communicate your needs. Budtenders want to help you find a product that is perfect for you.
Now for the good stuff.
We did the hard work for you (p.s. you’re welcome), and reached out to dispensaries to gather their top tips for those who are new to the dispensary scene. Here it goes!
Kelly Stanley, Retail Sales Manager DDM Cannabis
1- ASK YOURSELF A FEW INWARD QUESTIONS BEFORE COMING INTO THE STORE.
When do I intend to use the product? What time of day – at work – at home – recreationally – vacation, etc. will work best for you?
How do I want to feel? For example do you want to feel calm – energized – happy – heavy and couch locked – sleepy, etc?
Do I have a preferred way to consume cannabis or any limitations? Some people may prefer edibles to smoking or get easily anxious.
What is my goal? Are you trying to relieve stress or pain, feel more motivated or sedated, etc.
2. PAY ATTENTION WHEN YOU ENTER THE MAIN LOBBY.
There may be signage to help guide you towards the registers. Take your time, look through the displays, and make sure you’re in the correct line for shopping in-store. In many places you can order ahead through their website and there will be a separate line for online pre-orders.
3. BE HONEST AND DESCRIPTIVE WITH YOUR BUDTENDER
Your Budtender will naturally ask discovery questions to find the right product for you, but coming in ready to have an open ended conversation will help direct you to the BEST products for your specific needs. You might also learn some Pro knowledge/tips this way. Ask followup questions and be sure you understand how to use each item before leaving the store. There’s no need to feel rushed, your budtender cares about your experience just as much as you do.
Loren Forbes, General Manager Orange Cannabis Co.
If we could give a first-time user just one tip on making their first experience with cannabis a fun and enjoyable one, it would definitely be to ask questions!! Let your budtender know you are new to cannabis, and ask for recommendations, we will be more than happy to guide you. We can recommend a variety of products and methods to make your intro to cannabis an enjoyable one!
Ryan Goodwin, Senior Wholesale Account Manager for Evervibe & former Budtender.
As someone who’s been in the cannabis industry for a while, I know that visiting a dispensary can be overwhelming especially for a cannabis beginner. So, here are my top three tips to help you make the most of your first dispensary experience:
Know what you want (or at least have an idea). While dispensaries will have budtenders who can help guide you, it’s always helpful to have a general idea of what you’re looking for. Do you want a specific strain? Do you prefer edibles or flower? Knowing what you want (or at least having a basic idea) can help you navigate the dispensary more easily.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Budtenders are there to help, so don’t be shy about asking questions. Whether you’re unsure about dosing, want to learn more about a certain strain, or just need some advice, they’re there to assist you. So don’t be afraid to speak up!
Take it slow. Cannabis affects everyone differently, so it’s important to take it slow and start with a low dose. Whether you’re smoking, vaping, or eating edibles, start with a small amount and wait to see how it affects you before consuming more. Remember, you can always consume more, but you can’t take back what you’ve already consumed.
So there you have it, my top three tips for a first time dispensary goer. Just remember to have fun and enjoy the experience!
To all of the dispensary newbies, aka cannabis beginners, we have one wish for you.
Stop caring what anyone thinks. Get up from behind your keyboard, put one foot in front of the other and walk into a dispensary. You will be amazed at the community you gain and the relief you feel from simply starting. Cannabis means different things to different people. That’s what makes it magical. Want to smoke cannabis everyday, cool. Want to drink a seltzer at your next dinner party, you do you. Want to take a gummy before a long plane ride, smooth sailin’ to ya. P.s. If you’re a rule follower, do it before the security checkpoint.
If you have any questions, cannabis beginner or long-time user, Evervibe is full of friends waiting to help you. Feel free to reach out to us anytime on social or emaill us at hello@enjoyevervibe.com.
Talk soon,
Evervibe <3