We talked with people in the local cannabis industry—from budtenders to managers—about their favorite products, how they use the plant in their daily life, and some of their favorite cannabis-inspired memories.
Skyelar Hoort, Owner - Love Supreme Cannabis
What do you think makes your store stand out?
I would say the vibe all day. I’m talking about both the shop aesthetic and the silly people you’ll meet inside. Even with all the regulations and rules, we make sure the experience is pleasant from the minute you walk in the door. Our team is so friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely happy to be there.
What’s your favorite product you carry right now?
We just harvested some of our own Strawberry Sour Haze from the garden and it smells so delicious. It’s reminding me that Michigan summers exist, and aren’t that far away. So this strain is my new go-to bud when sharing with friends. I loved watching this plant grow, and grow and grow. The buds were so heavy and sticky. My favorite edible product on the menu right now is the Kazumi’s Mushroom and THC gummy line. They have 5 flavor options, each containing 200mg of full-spectrum cannabis extract plus adaptogenic mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps & Reishi.
What role does cannabis play in your daily life?
I’ve always consumed different forms of cannabis as a way to either connect with people, relax, or tap into my creative side. Admittedly, when I was younger it was less intentional. Nowadays, I’m really selective about how much and what products I consume. I’d rather choose a low-dose product that gives me the exact buzz I’m looking for in the moment.
Do you have a favorite cannabis-related memory?
I recently attended a women-focused cannabis event hosted the ladies of Ashe Lounge. We enjoyed cannabis mocktails, infused snacks and desserts, and a roll-your-own-joint apothecary. The venue was gorgeous, the guests were all so happy to be there, and it really made me remember why we all love this plant. It sure would be cool if we could host events like this in Grand Rapids! ;)
Matt W., District Manager - Stash Ventures
What do you think makes your store stand out?
It’s all about experience. We have amazing people that have been properly trained and have some incredible product knowledge. We ensure we will be easy to do business with, have a large selection and competitive prices. Not only will you have a good experience while shopping inside the store, you will also have a great experience with the products at home.
What’s your favorite product you carry right now?
I am a diehard flower smoker. My favorite flower to smoke is our High Minded Permanent Marker. The overall effect I receive after consuming is exactly what I enjoy. It also has an incredible smell and taste while smoking. It is my go to product in our stores.
What role does cannabis play in your daily life?
Cannabis has been a crucial part of my life for many years now. It allows me to relax but does not take away my ability to function. It truly helps with my pain relief and ability to focus.
Do you have a favorite cannabis-related memory?
I would say pre legal market, it would be some of my silly memories coming up with creative ways to smoke with my friends. We did many crazy things, from making bowls out of fruit to taking a massive Culligan jug and turning it into a gravity bong. Professionally would be when I came into the industry and Grand Opened our second store, Timber Allegan.
Tanner DuPont, Store Manager - House of Dank
What do you think makes your store stand out?
What makes House of Dank stand out is the wide variety of brands and products we carry. We’ve got something in all price ranges and a wide selection of flavors always in stock.
What’s your favorite product you carry right now?
My current favorite product is the North Coast Donuts. They are a 1g top shelf flower preroll mixed with 0.5g of their North Coast Rosin.
What role does cannabis play in your daily life?
Cannabis is my favorite way to end the day! I love sitting down to relax after a long day and smoking some flower and having a nice dinner, typically followed by a rosin dab after.
Do you have a favorite cannabis-related memory?
Smoking for the first time with my grandma.
Erin Otten, General Manager - Noxx Cannabis
What do you think makes your store stand out?
NOXX Cannabis stands out for our dedication to top-tier customer service which includes providing customers with quality products and a memorable, educational experience.
What’s your favorite product you carry right now?
Good Tide Gummies; whether you’re looking to get better sleep, feel more positive and creative, or just looking to relax, Good Tide has a gummy for you, and they all taste delicious.
What role does cannabis play in your daily life?
Cannabis plays a big role in my everyday life, helping to regulate my mood and keep me focused on important tasks as well as helping me wind down at night after a busy day.
Do you have a favorite cannabis-related memory?
My favorite cannabis-related memory is smoking with my little sister for her first time when she turned 18; she was afraid of getting lethargic and sleepy, but we instead ended up running laps around the park and laughing for hours, changing her whole perception of cannabis altogether.