If you’ve never stepped foot in a recreational dispensary before, the experience can be intimidating. It’s essential to clearly understand what you want from your visit and bring along a few essentials.
These dos and don’ts can help ensure your experience is pleasant and beneficial.
Know Your Goals
There’s a first time for everything, and the first visit to a dispensary can be intimidating for even the most experienced cannabis users. Whether you’re new to the industry or just curious about what all the hype is about, knowing your goals can help you make the most of your experience.
First-time visitors typically need some guidance from a budtender to understand the different forms of marijuana, their intended effects, and how they should be consumed. When entering a recreational dispensary in Portland for the first time, you must communicate openly with the budtender about your specific goals and preferences. Whether seeking relaxation, pain relief, or a creative boost, the budtender can recommend suitable strains, products, or consumption methods tailored to your desired effects. By establishing clear communication, you empower yourself to make informed choices and enhance your overall cannabis experience.
Bring Along Essentials
When you arrive at a dispensary, it’s best to have a plan. Whether seeking specific effects or simply wanting to try something new, having an idea of what you want will make your experience more enjoyable.
If you’re a first-timer, bring identification and cash for your purchase. Many dispensaries require a cash-only policy and don’t accept credit cards or debit. Some also have age requirements and rules you must follow, so research those beforehand.
Additionally, it’s important to note that all weed sales at dispensaries are final. There are no returns or exchanges, so be sure you’re committed to a particular product before dropping much money. Additionally, bringing along a friend or partner can help you feel less overwhelmed by the dispensary environment. Many dispensaries also have rewards programs for frequent customers, so be sure to check their website or ask your budtender about these incentives. Finally, be prepared to wait in line inside or outside the store.
Understand Key Terminology
Cannabis is not the same as any other retail product, so there is a certain level of vocabulary associated with it. Understanding key terms and phrases can make your experience much more enjoyable.
Before you even enter the dispensary, you will need to show a valid state or province ID. Medical marijuana cardholders may be looking for specific types of products that help with symptoms they are experiencing. At the same time, recreational consumers are often simply interested in the intoxicating effects cannabis can provide.
The layout of a dispensary is another essential factor to take into consideration. Many are set up like traditional retail stores, allowing customers to browse various product lines and chat with budtenders on staff. However, a growing number of dispensaries are implementing the “cannabis lounge” model, which combines elements of a smoking lounge with a cannabis storefront.
This format reduces transaction times and can offer a more relaxed and inviting atmosphere for the consumer. It can also increase the average order size and better accommodate customers who place orders ahead of time for delivery or curbside pickup.
Follow Proper Etiquette
When visiting a dispensary, you must ensure you follow proper etiquette. This includes bringing a valid form of identification, having cash, and being prepared to answer any questions that the budtender may have for you. This will ensure that your visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
The first thing that the budtender will ask you is why you’re there and what your goals are with cannabis. This will help them guide you through the different products that they have in store. It’s also a great time to ask any questions you might have.
Remember that everyone has been a newbie at some point, so it’s completely okay to ask your budtender any questions. They are there to guide you through your cannabis journey and help you achieve your goals. It’s essential to follow their advice and never try a strain they wouldn’t recommend. This can cause a negative experience for both you and the budtender.
Don’t Let Intimidation Hold You Back
Even though it may be tempting to buy a whole lot of cannabis, it is always best to start small. The budtenders will work with you to find the right products to help you achieve your desired effects. Having a goal in mind will make your dispensary visit more enjoyable and allow you to maximize your experience.
While you can certainly walk into a recreational dispensary without a plan, doing so will likely result in an uncomfortable or overwhelming experience. You can also use your time at the dispensary to learn more about the industry and develop relationships with budtenders, managers, or other staff members.
