If you have never visited a cannabis dispensary before, it is helpful to develop a game plan. Knowing what to expect can make your trip more enjoyable and help you maximize your potential for finding the products that best suit your needs.
For example, if you are new to edibles, try starting with a lower serving size.
Waiting in a Line
Visiting a cannabis dispensary Rockville, can be intimidating whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced consumer. There’s a lot to take in, from knowing which ID to bring to understanding the difference between adult use and medical cannabis.
As with many retail outlets, cannabis stores have a waiting room where patrons spend some time before their name is called to make a purchase. The number of people visiting a particular dispensary at any given time is one of the biggest factors determining how long it will take to get into the store and purchase products.
Some customers are lookie-loos who want to try the latest cannabis trends or experiment with new strains to find what they like. Other patients are determining if cannabis can help them with their pain management or alleviate unwanted symptoms. Then, some are a little more seasoned and shop your product lineup regularly, which is great for you!
If you’re going to be buying for either Adult Use or Medical Use, it’s important to remember that most dispensaries only accept cash. While some have an ATM on-site, it’s best to be prepared and bring adequate money to avoid inconvenience. Many dispensaries also list their menu and prices on their website, making planning even easier before your trip.
Talking to Budtenders
As a dispensary customer, you’ll want to find one that makes you feel comfortable. It means a friendly and welcoming staff ready to answer any questions. You may also want to choose a place that has a large selection of cannabis products, depending on your personal preferences and needs.
Budtenders are the experts in their fields and can help you find exactly what you want. Walking into the store with a general idea of what you’re searching for will make the process easier for you and the budtenders. For example, if you’re in the market for a new strain, you can explain your experience level to them and ask about their effects and medicinal advantages.
You might also want to learn more about the different cannabis product types before making a purchase, such as sativa and Indica strains, or even how to consume cannabis best. Many dispensaries have menus that include prices, terpene, and cannabinoid percentages, and music categories online so you can research before heading to the shop.
It’s also important to leave your phone in your pocket or bag while you’re talking to a budtender and don’t smoke cannabis on the premises, which is against state law. If you are in a public space, it’s not a good idea to openly consume cannabis either, as this could attract unwanted attention from other people in the area.
Checking Out the Store’s Layout
There’s a first time for everything, including your first trip to a cannabis dispensary. The good news is that a great first-time dispensary experience isn’t as complicated or intimidating as it might seem. But it can help to know what to expect before you go, including the fact that many stores may have a long waiting line.
Depending on the store size and when you visit, you could be forced to wait outside or inside until your turn to shop comes up. Generally speaking, you can reduce this risk by visiting during non-rush hours in the morning or late evening.
Another consideration is that the dispensary’s layout and product arrangement can affect your shopping experience. Research has shown that a well-organized and neat store will encourage shoppers to buy more. This is why dispensaries are keen on strategic merchandising techniques that maximize sales.
Before heading to a dispensary, you should also ensure you’re familiar with the menu and know what products are available in your state or territory. Having this information will allow you to choose your cannabis better when you shop, and it will save you from potentially making mistakes that might be costly.
Finally, remember that you can’t bring weed across state lines or on an airplane, so you’ll need to plan your visit accordingly if you live out of state. The best way to do that is by checking your local zoning codes and determining where a dispensary can legally operate in your community.
Bringing Cash
For most consumers, visiting a cannabis dispensary is a different experience than shopping at your local liquor store or even a natural health store. Instead of being able to walk around to check out product options on shelves, most stores require you to wait in line, get a security card, and show your ID.
Once you’re inside, a dispensary budtender will assist you in assessing your preferences and needs. They will help you find the right products to purchase and give you instructions for using them. Some stores might allow you to touch or sample the products before buying, but this varies from place to place.
Because of cannabis’s federal status, many stores only accept cash and a few debit cards. Bringing money can save you time and hassle while avoiding unnecessary fees. If you’re unsure how much to bring, view the dispensary’s menu online to get an idea of what products are available and their prices.
For dispensaries that offer this service, consider posting your cash-only policy on your website, waiting room, and in-store signage. It will help educate customers and prevent theft or internal loss. You can also add an extra step for employees when transporting cash by requiring another employee to accompany them, ensuring that the money is never left alone.
