Stepping into a weed dispensary for the first time can be an otherworldly experience for the uninitiated. The air is laced with the fragrant promise of countless strains, and the shelves are adorned with an almost overwhelming array of products. Whether you’re a recent canna-convert, a medical user, or just curious about the emerging legal cannabis market, this guide will help you feel more at ease when you visit a dispensary.
While the culture of cannabis has evolved dramatically, social taboos around the plant often lead to a knowledge gap. The truth is, visiting a dispensary can be as straightforward as buying a bottle of wine, provided you know a few basic etiquettes and facts.
Dispensary, Deconstructed
A dispensary is where medical or recreational cannabis is sold legally. Regulations vary by state (or country), but in general, these establishments are health-centered — both clinically and socially. You don’t typically find a dispensary on every street corner; they’re licensed, which introduces a barrier to entry meant to ensure quality and safety.
When you visit, expect a warm, professional, and informative experience. Dispensary staff are passionate about their products and knowledgeable about the strains, their effects, and various consumption methods. Dispensaries strive to be informative centers where customers can come to learn, not just to buy.
The Legal Lowdown
It’s crucial to understand the legal perspective. Laws on recreational and medical marijuana can seem complex, but familiarizing yourself with local regulations is your best protection.
Check the Laws Before You Go
Know the laws in your jurisdiction. Is recreational use legal? Is medicinal marijuana available? What conditions or illnesses qualify? Can you grow your own? Websites like Norml or Leafly provide solid overviews of current regulations.
Do Your Homework on Dispensaries
In legal states, the choices can be dizzying, but it’s a good problem to have. Read reviews of dispensaries near you. Do they have a good reputation for product quality and helpful staff? Check their website for an up-to-date menu and any discounts or deals for new customers.
Inside the Dispensary
What to expect when you’re finally inside the budroom? It’s about to get green.
Be Prepared to Show Your ID and Possibly Some Paperwork
Despite the laid-back vibe of many dispensaries, the legal obligation to confirm you’re of age (and in some cases, have proper medical authorization) is no joke. Bring a valid form of government-issued ID, and if applicable, relevant medical paperwork.
Take Your Time and Ask Questions
The biggest change from the black-market buy is the information at your disposal. Ask questions; budtenders are typically very knowledgeable and happy to help you find the right product for the effect you’re looking for. They might recommend certain strains for relaxation, creativity, or sleep — don’t be afraid to be honest about your level of experience.
Explore the Variety
You’ll find a multitude of products beyond just the flower itself. Edibles, tinctures, concentrates, and topicals offer different experiences, and sometimes, they’re preferable for discretion or health reasons. Part of the fun in visiting a dispensary is seeing and learning about all the different ways people consume cannabis.
Final Tips for First-Timers
Making that first visit can be a bit like a trip to a foreign country where you don’t speak the language, but everyone speaks yours — you just need to practice.
Start Slowly
If you’re new to cannabis, start with small amounts; you might find you need less of legal, quality product than you did of the unknown potency of some illicit purchases.
Take Notes on What Works for You
Cannabis affects everyone differently, and the sheer variety of strains means there’s no one-size-fits-all. Keep a journal of what you try and how you like it.
Enjoy the Experience
For many, the unique legal status of cannabis, combined with its long history of prohibition, adds an element of adventure to the simple act of purchasing it. Enjoy the experience, learn something, and come away with a new favorite.
Visiting a dispensary demystifies this aspect of cannabis culture. It’s no longer about a furtive exchange in a shadowy alley or giggling over DIY bongs. It’s about access to medicine and a safe recreational experience. And that’s something to celebrate, no matter your level of interest.