Ask a Budtender

Hailing from Marin County, the birthplace of 420 and the modern beginnings of mountain biking, Ann Owens always has been an enthusiast of where cannabis and nature meet. After graduating from UCSB and fueled by an interest in working with people, Ann found a career in managing independent eyecare clinics where she was both a tech and a manager. The emergence of cannabis in the medical format as a successful control for glaucoma sparked her interest in merging patient care with alternative methods for treatment. CBTS interviewed Ann about her work at the dispensary Farmacy Santa Barbara.

Have you seen a change in product purchases (type, etc) since the pandemic? Flower has always been the star of the show at The Farmacy Santa Barbara. Since the pandemic began, however, we have noticed that other products have started to creep into the picture — and understandably so. More than ever, our customers are seeking to alleviate inordinate amounts of stress and boredom, cure sleeplessness, and even lose weight. As a result, we’ve seen an increase in the popularity of other cannabinoids, like CBD tinctures and CBN gummy treats for sleep. Similarly, as people spend more time indoors, strains that aid in suppressing appetite and increasing energy have been in demand. People are also looking to shake it up with new, unusual products that help kick boredom and keep things interesting!

Do you field many questions regarding growing at home? Our customers are refreshingly curious about all things cannabis. Mostly, we’re asked if we sell seeds, and where to procure them, or if we carry clones (to all three questions: not at this time). We’ve fielded these queries ever since the store first opened, and their frequency hasn’t really waxed or waned since the beginning of the pandemic.

What’s a special talent a budtender has that makes her/him perfect for the job? Budtenders are unique individuals with a specialized skillset. Some have worked in the industry before they joined The Farmacy team, but they all have an extensive understanding of cannabis strains, delivery methods, and effects. Our budtenders undergo rigorous training on topics from legal compliance to terpene profiles to the latest industry innovations. Although each budtender’s approach is personal and unique, they all share in common a passion for cannabis. They must be compassionate listeners, clever problem solvers, confident with people, and know how to have fun. Budtenders’ talents are eclectic: they produce remedies with the creativity and wisdom of healers, give the sound advice you’d seek from a grandparent, and provide the comfort of a trusted friend or beloved pet.

Any special etiquette one should know about when visiting a dispensary? Good behavior at any dispensary is welcome. Come as you are: our customer base includes everyone from connoisseurs to curious first-time users, so please don’t worry if you’re new to cannabis! Please do bring cash we (Farmacy SB) don’t accept credit.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about dispensaries? A lot of the misunderstandings we encounter here at the dispensary revolve around staff consumption at work. We have a notolerance policy regarding consumption on the premises or on the clock, in compliance with state law and as part of a high standard of service. Customers also occasionally express concerns about the disclosure of personal information to authorities. We take your privacy extremely seriously and follow confidentiality guidelines akin to the HIPAA guidelines used by a doctor’s office. These are beliefs and best practices to which we are very committed.

What is your average demographic and has that changed in the past 9 months? Our customer base has always been very diverse; we’re proud to welcome folks from all backgrounds, walks of life, and of many ages (21 and over, of course!) This has continued to be true throughout the pandemic. It’s an exceptionally difficult time, and regardless of who we are or where we come from, we all need solace and relief. C S

Ann Owens is the Floor Manager at Farmacy Santa Barbara, located at 128 W. Mission St. in Santa Barbara. Visit thefarmacysb.com for more info. — CBTS Staff