Congratulations! You live in a newly legalized state and there are teams of marijuana dispensary businesses setting up shop in your area.
But there’s one tiny problem.
You’ve never been to a dispensary before. You don’t know what to expect, and you don’t want to walk in unless you have some idea as to what you’re looking for and how to buy it.
Luckily for you, this is a common issue for people in newly legalized states. The chances of your budtender (cannabis clerk) judging you for not having a clue on your first visit are slim to zero. In fact, they will expect it.
Read on to learn how you can get a step ahead of the game and prepare yourself for your first marijuana dispensary venture.
Know the Difference Between Medical and Recreational Marijuana Dispensaries
Knowing the difference between the two will make both your life and your budtender’s life easier.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with walking in to observe the merchandise. But, if your state is restricted to opening dispensaries for medical use only, you’ll be walking home with empty hands.
To buy from a medical marijuana dispensary, make sure you bring:
- A valid state ID (over 21 years of age)
- A doctor’s recommendation
- Medical marijuana card
On the other hand, if your state legalized marijuana for recreational use, you won’t need anything other than a photo ID proving you’re at least 21 years of age.
Security Measures
Since this is a brand new business with extremely sought-after merchandise, both medical and recreational marijuana dispensaries will have top-notch security.
They will be protected by:
- Guards
- Security cameras
- Precautionary standards and procedures
Keep in mind, medical dispensaries will often have a lobby of people waiting outside because they only allow one customer in the store at a time.
You’ll want to know how to find a marijuana dispensary near you to book an appointment or to ask about their business hours. This can help make your visit quick and easy.
What to Expect When You First Walk in the Door
First-time customers might be overwhelmed by the huge range of products. But fear not. Your budtender is here to help if you’re unsure. They can guide you through the store and provide much-needed info about each product.
Some of the products you’re likely to see include:
- Flower
- Edibles
- Infused Beverages
- Topicals
- Concentrates and Vapes
- Pressed Pills
- Tinctures
You’ll score extra points with your budtender if you know the difference between THC and CBD. This is because each of the products you’ll find at your local dispensaries may contain one or the other, or both.
All products are of high quality and harvested from the most reputable farms.
Check out a harvest location near you!
How to Purchase
Since neither medical nor recreational marijuana dispensaries are insured by banks, you’ll have to pay in cash.
Most dispensaries will have an ATM within just in case you forget but you might have to pay an ATM free.
Consider loading yourself up with cash from your bank beforehand if you’d prefer to save time and money during your visit.
Make Sure You Tip Your Budtender!
Marijuana dispensaries are opening all over the U.S. It’s one of the fastest-growing businesses in the country and keeping up with the demand of its customers is no easy task.
Make sure when you leave with your exit-bag full of goodies that you give your budtender a proper thank you.
There’s a good chance they got you something good, taught you something new, and left you better-prepared for your next visit.
And always remember, marijuana is a drug. Use it responsibly. Have respect for yourself and your weed.
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