So you’re interested in planning your first marijuana dispensary trip? There are a few things that you should be aware of because the first visit can often be overwhelming. In fact, this trip should be exciting and memorable if you do not live in a state that has legalized marijuana for recreational use. Here are a few things that we would like to acknowledge to help ease the anxiety of visiting a marijuana dispensary for the first time.
- Dispensary Research
A green cross is the global sign of a marijuana dispensary. You will see many if you are in a city like Denver, Colorado. Not all of these dispensaries choose to be for recreation and medical sales. Some will require a medical marijuana license to purchase their goodies. Each dispensary has prices that will vary, different cannabis strains, and specialties. There are websites that provide menus and reviews for each dispensary.
- Strain Research
Each dispensary will have display cases with labels that tell you specifically which strain the containers hold. It’s ideal to equip yourself with knowledge of strains and their effects. Sativa is the best option for an uplifting high and to be used during the day to prevent sleepiness. Indicas will give you more a chilled type high and can often put you to sleep. If you’re the type of person who prefers a high that’s in between, hybrid strains are the way to go.
- Entering the Dispensary
Only persons the age of 21 and up are allowed to enter any marijuana dispensary. You will be required to show ID so be sure to have it on hand. Each dispensary is set up differently, but many people notice the heavy security and precautions that dispensaries take by using cameras, armed guards, bullet proof glass, and doors that only open if buzzed in. Unfortunately, many banks will not do business with these dispensaries because, by federal law, the use or sale of marijuana is still illegal. This requires them to be on a cash only basis and will do anything to protect their profits.
There are some marijuana dispensaries that have two separate entrances for medical marijuana card holders or recreational users. Be sure to use the correct entrance if this is the case. When you first enter, you will show ID to the receptionist behind a window. They hold your ID until you enter the room where all of the happiness begins.
- The Budtender
Once you have made it past the first batch of security precautions, you will finally get to meet a budtender. Most budtenders are capable of guiding you through the explanation of their different types of cannabis, concentrates, edibles, oils, and whatever other products they may carry. The marijuana industry has advanced drastically, and there is a wide variety of new novelties and products for consumption. Please be aware not all budtenders are the same and their knowledge can range from connoisseurs of cannabis to completely incomprehensible. If you are unsure of which strains are sativa, indica, or hybrid; be sure to ask your budtender so you know which side effects to expect.
- Use Responsibly
Each state that has legalized recreational use of marijuana has their own laws. Most dispensaries will advise you of these laws, but it’s always good to be prepared. In Denver, public consumption of marijuana is illegal and can result in a $50 fine.
If you decided to purchase a few of the edible goodies, know your limit. There are edibles that can take a little longer to kick in than others. Many novice users make the mistake of consuming more than recommended in a given amount of time resulting in an extreme high that can last up to six hours. Begin with small bites and just take it slow.
Last but not least, be sure you are properly equipped before buying a lot of waxes, flowers, or oils. It’s not advised to travel with smoking apparatuses so it would definitely ruin the first-time experience without the right equipment.
