How to Prepare for Your First Dispensary Visit

The availability of legal cannabis, along with an abundance of cannabis dispensaries, has been rekindling relationships with cannabis for crowds in every generation. Medical cannabis patients are visiting their local cannabis dispensaries to alleviate the symptoms of their conditions, while recreational users are finding new and interesting ways to enjoy their cannabis.

If it’s your first time at a dispensary, we’re here to help. We’ll go over the process and what you can expect from your first visit to take any anxiety out of the experience and be sure that you find what you’re looking for.

Know Your Goals

Getting the most from your visit to the cannabis dispensary depends on knowing your goals in advance. Are you looking to relieve the symptoms of a chronic condition? Are you looking for a new way to consume cannabis? Is there a particular strain you want to try? Understanding the goals and what you’re trying to achieve will make it easier to go into a dispensary with an idea of what you want to learn more about.

Bring Your Medical Cannabis Card and ID

Whether you’re a medical cannabis patient or a recreational consumer of legal age, be sure to bring your state-issued identification with you. If you have a recommendation from a medical professional, be sure that it’s valid and be prepared to provide the dispensary staff with your identification.

Expect Security

Most dispensaries have some type of security for the protection of the staff and customers. Cameras, guards and protected entrances are commonplace, so don’t be intimidated. Be respectful of the dispensary security and enjoy your visit.

Do Your Research

Dispensaries range in selection, and though the staff is prepared to guide you and make recommendations, it’s best to do some research prior to the visit. Check out the menu in advance, searching specifically for strains that are related to your personal conditions or desired results. This research will be helpful when you’re trying to place your order.

Check the Availability

Knowing what’s available at your local dispensary will make the process smoother for everyone involved. Most dispensaries offer an online menu that includes all the pertinent information about the strains, which you can use to plan for your visit. You can also view the specials and find out more about different consumption options.

Consider Your Preferred Consumption

Smoking cannabis isn’t the only option anymore. Dispensaries offer cannabis products in flower, concentrates, tinctures, edibles, pills, drinks, vape pens, suppositories, ointments and a variety of other options. These consumption methods offer different benefits and drawbacks, so do a little research to determine your preferred consumption method. If you’re not sure or you’re curious about a different consumption method, feel free to discuss it with the dispensary staff to get some recommendations and insights.

Know the Laws

Take the time to familiarize yourself with your state’s laws regarding cannabis consumption. Understanding the legal requirements will help the experience go smoothly and help you feel confident in your visit. For example, there may be a limit to the amount you can purchase or possess, which is important to know when you’re planning for your visit.

You May Experience a Wait

Dispensaries are required to serve only one patient at a time in some states, so you may need to wait to be served. This is a good time to look at the dispensary menu and consider the strains you want to order. Then, when it’s your turn, you’ll be ready to purchase.

Ask Questions

Regardless of whether you have specific products in mind or you’re looking for some guidance from a dispensary staff members, you can always ask questions. Feel free to ask for recommendations on strains that are popular or best suited for the conditions you’re looking to treat.

Make Sure You Have Cash

Cannabis can be expensive. Though some dispensaries offer ATM systems or accept credit cards, many are cash only. Before you visit the dispensary, find out what forms of payment they accept and whether they have an ATM so that you can be prepared with the funds you need.

Dispensary Etiquette

Dispensaries aren’t pharmacies, but they’re a little different from a standard retail environment and have certain rules and regulations.

For example, most dispensaries don’t allow photography inside their establishments. This can be a breach of privacy or a distraction to other patrons. It’s also important to give other patrons space in order to respect their privacy.

It’s also polite to avoid using your phone while you’re in the dispensary, since it can be a distraction to those around you. If you want to speak with a friend about your visit, it’s best to do it after.

Don’t Feel Obligated

If you’re unsure about your purchase for whatever reason, remember that you’re not obligated to buy. Keep in mind that returns aren’t an option in most cases, so you should be sure that you truly want the product before you buy. Don’t feel the need to follow the recommendations of the staff if you’re not sold, and focus on the products you want.

Leave a Review

After your first visit to a particular dispensary, take note of the service you received, the quality of the products and the general atmosphere of the location. Be sure to let them know how helpful they were in answering your questions and in the quality of their recommendations, as well as how comfortable they made you feel. This will not only improve your future visits, but it will also help them improve and serve customers better.

Visit Euphoria Wellness

Armed with these tips, you’re prepared to visit your local cannabis dispensary for the first time — and hopefully, you’re excited about the experience. Once you go, you’ll likely find that the process is much easier and more relaxed than you anticipated, especially if you visit a reputable dispensary like Euphoria Wellness. We not only offer an experienced, knowledgeable staff to guide you through your first visit and ensure your satisfaction, but we also have a vast selection of different cannabis strains for therapeutic and recreational use. Call or visit us today with your cannabis card to view our specials, learn more about our products and check out our menu!