We understand it can be overwhelming when you’re going to a dispensary for the first time. You’re probably wondering what to do when you get there, how do you talk about the product, where do I go when I get there, how do I pay, or any number of the typical questions we get from new customers. Relax, don’t worry, we’re here to teach you how to act when you’re going to a dispensary for the first time.

Going To A Dispensary For The First Time Tips

Whether you’re visiting Michigan from a state that doesn’t yet have legal weed, or you’ve been given a doctor’s recommendation for medical marijuana, the basic protocol is generally the same. Here are a few things you might be able to expect so you’re not confused when you’re going to a dispensary for the first time.

Many Dispensaries Are Very Discreet

Oftentimes if you’re walking down the street, you may not even realize you’re passing a dispensary. Only more recently in places like Los Angeles, for instance, have cannabis shops come to be more obvious. However, generally, they’re usually located in unmarked buildings with no windows and only a singular door that leads to a waiting room. So when you’re going to a dispensary for the first time and you’re not exactly sure where it is we recommend calling the store ahead of time and asking them for tips on how to find their building. If you have a friend that also goes to that dispensary, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to go with them for your first time since they will be more familiar with the area and can help you navigate your way around.

There’s Usually A Waiting Room

In some dispensaries you can walk right in and see what’s on display. In others, you’re required to wait, as if you’re in a doctor’s office. And just like a doctors office, you may have to wait and sign some paperwork, join the collective, show them your ID and (if applicable) your medical marijuana doctor’s recommendation. Especially when you’re going to a dispensary for the first time, there’s usually going to be paperwork you’re required to fill out. While you’re waiting, check out the dispensary menu, if they have one, or browse cultivars online to get a feel for what you want.

Be Sure To Have Cash

Since cannabis is still federally illegal, most dispensaries are cash only, because they are barred from using federally funded banks. If you’re going to the dispensary for the first time you should bring enough cash to purchase some product and get a feel for their pricing. If you’re a light smoker, or aren’t planning to purchase as much since it’s your first time at the dispensary, you shouldn’t need more than $50. If you’re a moderate smoker, or are expecting to be purchasing a moderate amount, plan on bringing somewhere between $75 to $125. If you’re a heavy smoker, or plan to purchase a large amount, we would recommend bringing about $180 to $220. Since this is most likely your first visit at this dispensary though, we would recommend buying a smaller amount, taking it home and sampling it to see how you like it before buying a large quantity of something you don’t like.

While you’re there, you should look around to see if there’s an ATM on site so you know for the future whether you need to pick up cash ahead of time, or if you can get it there. Also take a look at what the budtender is using to check you out with, some dispensaries may have a cashless debit system or accept credit cards. This is important to know so you know whether or not you always need to bring cash, or can pay on your card.

Your Budtender Should Be Very Knowledgeable

Most higher-end dispensaries will have accommodating budtenders who know a great deal about different cultivars, products, modes of ingestion, and what’s right for different customers depending on their medical condition or what they’re looking for. You shouldn’t feel intimidated or be afraid to ask too many questions, even if they’re as basic as asking the difference between an indica and a sativa. Your budtender should be patient and helpful, and if they aren’t then maybe that’s not the dispensary for you. You’re going to a dispensary for the first time, so if you feel like your budtender isn’t giving you the care you want or are expecting, don’t feel like you have to get your product from there. Remember, if they don’t respect your dolla’ then don’t botha. 

Rely On Your Sense Of Smell

Cannabis sommeliers will often tell you to rely on your sense of smell. For example, if a cultivar’s aroma is pleasing to you, there’s a higher chance you might like its effects. But don’t just smell the cannabis, use your sense of smell inside the shop as well. If it doesn’t smell clean in there, chances are it isn’t clean. Especially when you’re going to a dispensary for the first time, you want to have confidence that their products are clean, and if they can’t keep their store clean, they probably aren’t keeping their product clean.

Try To Have A Sense Of How You Want To Consume Your Cannabis

If you buy flower, make sure you know how to roll a joint or have a pipe or bong handy. Otherwise, opt for pre-rolled joints. If you’d rather not smoke at all, explore vape pen options, and keep in mind some are totally disposable, while others are part battery (which you keep) and an oil cartridge (which you use up and throw away). If you opt for edibles or concentrates, be sure to know just how strong they’ll be. Both dabbing and eating your cannabis can get you way higher than you were expecting to get, and we don’t want you to pass your therapeutic sweet spot. And if you don’t want to get high at all, try a topical to soothe your muscles, or a CBD-only product.

So even though going to a dispensary for the first time can be a daunting experience, if you follow these 6 tips you’re more likely to have a better experience. Want to learn more about going to a dispensary for the first time? Check out our show that tells you everything you need to know about shopping in a dispensary.

Interested in our services? Schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced budtenders today to give you the results you’re trying to achieve with cannabis.