Going to a Dispensary for the First time? Here’s What to Expect
Going to a dispensary for the first time can be a fun yet intimidating task. Shopping for high-grade cannabis in a completely legal setting sounds like a dream to any marijuana lover, but there are often many questions surrounding etiquette and what to expect.
The fact that you’re reading this article shows that you’re at least somewhat interested in learning more about the topic, so here’s to your appetite for preparation and knowledge.
1. Identify Yourself
Have your state issued ID at the ready, you’ll need it. Marijuana, like alcohol, is prohibited to sell to anyone under the age of 21. Don’t expect grey hairs or a beard to pass as identification either. Dispensaries tend to be especially strict on identification since marijuana is illegal on a federal level and the new industry is intent on following the law.
2. Expect Security
Many dispensaries have some form of security. Cameras, guards, and barred entrances are common practice. There’s no need to be intimidated. Security is present to protect everyone and keep the bad guys out. Be respectful of the dispensaries security measures and you’ll be just fine.
3. Bring Cash
The billion-dollar marijuana industry is largely cash-only. Some dispensaries now accept cards, but it remains a complicated issue due to federal regulation regarding cannabis. To be safe, come prepared to pay for the green stuff with green stuff.
4. Know Yourself
What are you hoping to obtain from cannabis? Pain relief, sleep aid, boosted creativity? Different cannabis strains offer different benefits. Educate yourself on the differences between sativas, indicas, and hybrids as well as the effects of CBD versus THC.
Leafly is a popular website for researching a wide variety of cannabis strains. Descriptions, consumer reviews, effects, negatives, and medical uses can be found on the website.
5. Ask Questions
Budtenders are professionals responsible for finding the strain of cannabis that is right for you. Having a basic knowledge of cannabis before going to a dispensary for the first time is preferable, however, the experts are there to take you the rest of the way. Talk to a budtender about the experience you’re pursuing and they’ll help you achieve it.
6. Check Menu Availability
Knowing what’s available before you show up makes it a smooth process for everyone involved. Many dispensaries—including us—have online menus for each respective location. These menus usually include price, THC and CBD percentage, and strain types. You can use all of this information to conduct research and make an informed decision before evening setting foot in the shop.
Check for specials to save yourself some of your hard-earned cash!
7. Use the Product at Home
Generally, guests don’t shop in dispensaries. Additionally, going outside and smoking in the parking lot is a bad look for the dispensary and may result in a public consumption fine if you’re caught by law enforcement.
8. Embark on Your Cannabis Journey
Hopefully, after reading this, you’re feeling prepared and excited to about going to a dispensary for the first time. Recreational and medical cannabis is a rapidly growing industry, you’ll soon be a part of the forefront of consumers.
At our dispensaries, we always place the customer first. We hope you’ll feel comfortable visiting us, whether it’s the first time or the hundredth!
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