The Evolution Magazine Magazine December 2024 | Page 22

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ask Leah ...

Missouri Cannabis Education

What Should I Consider When Choosing the Best Dispensary For Me ?

by Leah Maurer , contributing writer

Leah

Leah Maurer , a native Missourian , is a canna journalist and activist living in Portland , OR . She is a co-owner of The Weed Blog www . theweedblog . com Co-Owner 420-420 Digital Media Solutions and the text code 420-420 . In 2014 , Maurer founded Moms for Yes on Measure 91 through grassroots efforts alone , which proved pivotal in adult-use legalization in Oregon . During that time , she also co-founded Show-Me Cannabis to help launch the legalization effort in Missouri . Maurer is a social justice activist at the core and hopes to see the end to the prohibition of cannabis globally .

When choosing a cannabis dispensary , one of the first factors to consider is the variety and quality of products available . A reputable dispensary should offer a wide selection , including flower , concentrates , edibles , topicals , and tinctures . The diversity of options allows consumers to choose the form of cannabis that best suits their preferences and needs . Quality is equally important — top dispensaries source their products from trusted growers and provide lab test results to guarantee purity and potency . Knowing where the cannabis comes from and how it was cultivated is often a sign of a reliable dispensary .

Another critical factor is the knowledge and customer service provided by the budtenders and other staff . Whether you ’ re an experienced consumer or new to cannabis , having access to well-informed budtenders can significantly enhance your experience . A good dispensary will have staff who are not only knowledgeable but also approachable . They should be able to answer questions about strains , dosage , and consumption methods , helping you make informed decisions about your purchase .
Location and accessibility play a major role as well . The convenience of reaching the dispensary can affect your overall experience . Consider how close the dispensary is to your home or work and whether it offers adequate parking . Additionally , many dispensaries now provide curbside pickup , which can be a huge advantage if you prefer not to shop in-store or need an added layer of convenience .
Obviously , pricing is another essential aspect to consider when choosing a dispensary . Cannabis products can vary in price , and while higher costs sometimes indicate higher quality , it ’ s important to ensure that the dispensary offers fair and competitive pricing . Some dispensaries also provide loyalty programs , discounts , or special promotions , which can help regular customers save money . If you hold a medical cannabis card , be sure to check whether the dispensary offers medical pricing , as this can be more affordable compared to recreational prices .
Perhaps this goes without saying , but ensuring where you shop for cannabisrelated products operates legally . All Missouri state licensed dispensaries must comply with state and local regulations and follow state-implemented product tracking guidelines , including strict product testing , labeling , and security protocols . By shopping at a state-licensed dispensary , you can be confident that the products you ’ re purchasing are safe , tested , and compliant with the law .
The ambiance and store experience also contribute to selecting the right dispensary . Some dispensaries have a clinical atmosphere , while others offer a more
12 December 2024