First Dispensary Visit: A Helpful Guide for Moms

So, you're gearing up for your first visit to a dispensary—congrats! Walking into a cannabis shop for the first time can feel a little overwhelming, but don't worry. We've got you covered with this step-by-step guide to help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to explore the world of medicinal marijuana.



Step 1: Do Your Homework

Before heading out, research the dispensaries in your area. Look for:

  • Medical vs. Recreational: Some dispensaries are medical-only, so check if you'll need a medical marijuana card.
  • Menu Online: Many dispensaries post their product lists online, complete with descriptions of strains, edibles, tinctures, and more. Browsing ahead can save you time.
  • Reviews: Check for customer reviews to ensure the dispensary has a welcoming, professional vibe.

If you're looking for a specific product or have dietary preferences (like vegan edibles), call ahead to confirm availability.



Step 2: Bring the Essentials

Here's what you'll need:

  1. Government-issued ID: Whether it's recreational or medical, you'll need to prove you're of legal age.
  2. Cash: Many dispensaries are cash-only, though some may accept debit cards.
  3. Medical Card (if applicable): If you're shopping at a medical dispensary, have your card ready.


Step 3: Check Your Nerves at the Door

Walking into a dispensary for the first time can feel a little like stepping into a pharmacy crossed with a boutique. Remember:

  • Everyone was a first-timer once. The staff is used to helping newcomers, and their goal is to make you feel comfortable.
  • There's no judgment. You're there to improve your wellness, and you're in good company.


Step 4: Treat Your Budtender Well

Your budtender is your guide in this journey, so build a good rapport!

  • Be Honest: Share what you're looking for—whether it's pain relief, help sleeping, or easing ADHD symptoms.

  • Ask Questions: If you don't understand a term (like "terpenes" or "microdosing"), ask! A good budtender will gladly explain.

  • Be Patient: If the shop is busy, your budtender may not have all the time in the world, so try to keep your questions concise.

Questions to Ask:

  • What’s the difference between indica, sativa, and hybrids?
  • How much THC or CBD is in this product?
  • Is this product beginner-friendly?
  • How long will the effects last?

Note about tipping your budtender: if you feel like you had a good experience and your budtender was knowledgeable / kind / patient / etc. then feel free to tuck a little something into their tip jar. Don't feel bad if you don't, though. (This is different from a delivery driver, whom you really should tip for bringing weed directly to your doorstep. Just a suggestion.) 



Step 5: Start Small

If you're new to cannabis, less is more.

  • Look for low-THC products or CBD-dominant options.
  • Edibles? Stick to 2.5mg or 5mg doses to start.
  • Smoking or vaping? Take one puff and wait 15 minutes before deciding if you need more. 

Our favorite trick when we first started visiting dispensaries was to buy pre-rolls (usually on promo or house-special). This is an inexpensive way to discover which types of marijuana strains you like and work best for you before splurging on eighth- or quarter-ounces. 

Note: smoking and vaping live resin cartridges will hit you the quickest. Be cautious and ensure you are in a safe environment before consuming. 



What NOT to Do

  1. Don't Be Weird About Showing Your ID. It's required by state law to show your ID when you check in at the dispensary and/or have a valid medical card. You must be of legal age to purchase, just like alcohol and tobacco, so there's no reason to be irritated.

  2. Don’t Pretend You Know Everything. It's okay to be new! Acting like a cannabis connoisseur when you're not can lead to confusion or buying products that don't meet your needs.

  3. Don’t Ignore Dosing Advice. Overdoing it can lead to an uncomfortable experience. Start slow!

  4. Don’t Haggle Prices. Cannabis is regulated, so pricing isn’t negotiable. Respect the business.

  5. Don’t Consume Before Leaving. Most states prohibit using cannabis in or near dispensaries. Wait until you’re home.


Bonus Tips

  • Peak Times: Dispensaries can get busy in the evening or on weekends. Try to visit during quieter hours if you’d prefer a more relaxed experience.

  • Bring a Notebook: Jot down strain names or product details to keep track of what works for you. Or check out our Stash template built in Notion.

  • Be Kind to Yourself: This is a learning experience. If you don’t love your first product, that’s okay! Experimentation is part of the process.

Your first dispensary visit is a rite of passage for any mom seeking better wellness. With a little prep and an open mind, you'll walk out feeling like a pro—and maybe even with a new favorite product in hand. Remember, you're not just buying cannabis; you're taking a step toward taking care of YOU.


Online Resources to Make Your Dispensary Visit Even Easier

Before or after your first trip to the dispensary, online resources can be a game-changer for finding strain info, product reviews, and availability near you. Here are some must-know tools:


1. Weedmaps

What It’s Great For:

  • Finding dispensaries nearby, complete with menus, prices, and customer reviews.
  • Checking for deals or discounts (some dispensaries post exclusive offers here).
  • Learning about cannabis laws in your area.

Pro Tip: Many dispensaries on Weedmaps have live inventory updates, so you can see what’s in stock before making the trip.


2. Leafly

What It’s Great For:

  • Detailed strain profiles, including effects, flavors, and terpene breakdowns.
  • Reviews from other users to get real-life insights about strains or products.
  • Educational content for beginners, covering everything from cannabis terminology to dosing.

Pro Tip: Use Leafly to search for strains tailored to specific needs like pain relief, focus, or relaxation.


3. Jane (iHeartJane)

What It’s Great For:

  • A sleek, easy-to-navigate platform for exploring products by category (flower, edibles, topicals, etc.).
  • Real-time inventory from participating dispensaries, including product details and reviews.
  • Filtering by preferences like THC/CBD levels, strain type, or specific brands.

Pro Tip: If the dispensary uses Jane, you can often place your order online for in-store pickup, saving you time.


4. Dispensary Websites

What It’s Great For:

  • Accurate, up-to-date product menus.
  • Information on store policies, promotions, and medical card requirements.
  • Some dispensaries also include educational resources or FAQs to help new customers.

Pro Tip: Bookmark your favorite dispensary’s website and check it before heading out—many have everything you need without using third-party apps.


How These Tools Fit Into Your Routine

  • Before Your Visit: Use these resources to find a dispensary, browse products, or research a strain you’ve heard about.
  • After Your Visit: Track what you’ve tried and loved by checking the strain info or reviews on Leafly or Jane.
  • As a Busy Mom: Save time by ordering online for pickup whenever possible.

These tools will help you feel informed, empowered, and ready to find the products that work best for your unique needs. With just a few clicks, you'll be navigating the world of cannabis like a seasoned pro!

Still Catching Up on the Lingo? Click Below!

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MYTH VS. REALITY

Dispelling Common Cannabis Misconceptions

Myth: Cannabis is highly addictive.

Reality: Cannabis dependency, while possible, affects a relatively small percentage of users (approximately 9%), the addiction risk is lower than substances like alcohol or opioids. Moderation and responsible use are key, and most users consume responsibly without developing dependency.

Myth: CDB is better than THC.

Reality: Neither is inherently "better." It depends on the individual’s needs. THC may work well for pain relief, while CBD is favored for reducing inflammation or anxiety.

Myth: Cannabis cures cancer.

Reality: While cannabis can alleviate symptoms related to cancer treatment, it’s not a cure. Claims otherwise are misleading and dangerous.

Myth: Cannabis use kills brain cells.

Reality: There is no conclusive evidence that cannabis kills brain cells. Some studies suggest THC can impact memory and learning temporarily, but the effects are not permanent.

Myth: All cannabis strains will make you feel the same way.

Reality: Different strains have unique terpene and cannabinoid profiles, leading to varied effects. Strains high in THC and myrcene can have sedative effects, but others, particularly sativa-dominant strains, can feel energizing and uplifting.

Myth: CBD is non-psychoactive.

Reality: CBD is psychoactive in the sense that it can affect mood and cognition, but it does not produce the intoxicating "high" associated with THC.

Myth: Cannabis use leads to permanent memory loss.

Reality: While THC can temporarily impair short-term memory during use, these effects are not long-lasting in most cases. Memory typically returns to normal after the effects wear off.

Myth: Cannabis makes people lazy and unmotivated.

Reality: The "lazy stoner" stereotype is misleading. While some strains may promote relaxation, many users report improved focus and creativity, depending on the strain and dose.

Disclaimer: Please use cannabis and cannabis-derived products responsibly and only in environments where you feel safe. We strongly encourage you to conduct thorough research on the potential benefits and risks of cannabis use and consult with your healthcare provider or naturopath before consumption.

Important Considerations: Be aware of potential side effects, including impaired judgment, dizziness, or mood changes. Cannabis use may interact with medications or exacerbate certain medical conditions. Avoid use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or operating heavy machinery. Only use cannabis in states where it is legalized and follow all local laws and regulations.

For comprehensive information on the effects and safety of cannabis, consult reputable resources like the Mayo Clinic or National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).

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