Elevating Cannabis Events: What Makes An Event High-Quality

Hello Moon High Readers,

In this newsletter, I’m exploring what transforms a regular cannabis event into a truly GREAT gathering. Whether you're a seasoned cannabis connoisseur or a newbie, understanding these elements can help you appreciate and create memorable cannabis events.?

“A great event, especially in the cannabis sphere, seamlessly integrates community-building, brand design, and genuine relationship-building,” says Ann M. Brum, CEO of Joint Venture & Co. “Events aren't just one-off affairs - they are intricate components of a larger brand strategy.”

I’ve attended HUNDREDS of events in my 12 years of working in the cannabis industry, and so I’ve got an eye for what creates a memorable experience. I’ve been to good, great, not-so-great, and exceptional events in the industry, and I’m here to share what makes an event HIGH quality.

With November 4th just around the corner, I’m thrilled to invite you to The Green Zone Presents: The Fog of War, a cannabis networking event in Denver, Colorado on November 4, 2023 at Tetra Lounge, hosted by KJ Saffold, an Army veteran, cannabis business owner, author and social equity applicant in Chicago, Illinois.?

The Green Zone connects members of the cannabis industry around their shared interests of veteran advocacy amongst consumers.?

Paired with a virtual community on Discord, The Green Zone offers cannabis business enthusiasts, consumers and advocates a chance to tell their story and learn with and from each other. The Green Zone represents a place of inclusivity, safety and a designated space for veterans who want to connect with each other around cannabis.?

To purchase tickets for yourself, or to purchase a ticket to gift to a veteran, click here.

Location, Location, Location

The importance of the event's location cannot be overstated. A great cannabis event takes advantage of a stunning backdrop – be it a lush garden, a stylish urban venue, or a picturesque outdoor setting.?

These locations not only provide a captivating atmosphere but also contribute to the overall vibe and ambiance of the gathering. Ideally, the event location allows for the consumption of cannabis on premises, making the event a truly elevated experience.

“Location is the canvas upon which the event’s atmosphere and ambiance are painted, setting the tone for an immersive experience,” notes Brum. “Enabling on-site consumption is essential—it not only allows attendees to explore cannabis in a holistic manner but also normalizes the experience, making it casual and accepted as sipping a cup of tea, all while heightening the immersive experience.”?

Affordable Pricing

Affordable pricing for cannabis events is crucial to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for a wide range of individuals. High ticket prices can create financial barriers, limiting participation to only those who can afford them. By offering affordable pricing, cannabis events can promote education and awareness about the plant's benefits, responsible use, and emerging industry trends, reaching a more diverse and representative audience.?

Accessible pricing also supports social equity initiatives within the cannabis industry, allowing individuals from marginalized communities disproportionately affected by cannabis-related criminalization to actively participate and benefit from the evolving legal market. Lower costs for admission encourage networking and collaboration, fostering a sense of community among cannabis enthusiasts, patients, entrepreneurs, and advocates, leading to a more well-rounded and vibrant cannabis culture.

Infused Foods

The aroma of freshly prepared infused foods can transport attendees to a world of culinary delight. A great cannabis event boasts an array of mouthwatering edibles and dishes, each carefully curated to provide a unique sensory experience. From cannabis-infused chocolates and gummies to gourmet meals paired with the perfect strains, these events offer more than just a 'taste' of what's possible when cannabis meets culinary art.?

If your event serves infused bites of any kind, make sure the food is visibly labeled with the THC amount each bite contains. Additionally, make sure you also have non-infused bites for those with a low tolerance.

Water

Might seem obvious, right? Well, over the years, I’ve attended plenty of events that did not have water easily accessible. This was frustrating and a result of poor planning on the hosts' part. Every cannabis event should have a water station with fresh water for guests to easily access to help manage their cottonmouth!

Wonderful Guests

No great cannabis event is complete without wonderful guests. These gatherings bring together a diverse crowd, from seasoned advocates to curious newcomers. Sharing stories, knowledge, and laughter, guests often form lasting connections. When attendees share a passion for cannabis, it's a recipe for an unforgettable and inclusive experience.?

“Above all, the most pivotal factor in a successful cannabis event is the people who attend,” says KJ, creator of The Green Zone Presents: The Fog of War Event. “Quality attendees with shared values and a genuine passion for cannabis contribute to the event's triumph. Cultivating a community of like-minded individuals fosters a positive atmosphere and ensures everyone benefits from the event.”

Not sure how to get wonderful guests at your soiree? Hire cannabis influencers to attend! They are socialites within their own rights and will help create buzz before the event, carry on meaningful conversations at the event, and share a post-event recap.

Experiential Moments

Experiential moments at events add a dynamic and engaging dimension to the experience, allowing attendees to interact with the plant in innovative and enjoyable ways, enhancing their overall enjoyment and appreciation. These interactive elements, such as sampling different strains, learning about cultivation techniques, or experiencing art and music while under the influence, create memorable and unique opportunities for social interaction and personal exploration, making the event more fun and appealing.?

By incorporating experiential moments, cannabis events can transform from passive gatherings into immersive, participatory occasions, enriching the sense of community and leaving attendees with lasting, positive impressions and a greater enthusiasm for cannabis culture.

Thoughtful Gift Bags

A staple of exceptional cannabis events, gift bags are more than just souvenirs – they're opportunities for brands to showcase their latest products. Attendees leave these gatherings with more than just good memories; they take home exciting gifts that might include top-quality flower, innovative vaporizers, stylish accessories, and much more.?

It's a way for hosts to show appreciation for their guests and a delightful surprise for all. Plus, it gives guests another chance to create content about your event - once they get home, they can showcase all the wonderful treats they received!

The secret sauce to a GREAT cannabis event lies in combining these elements – infused foods that tantalize the taste buds, gift bags that surprise and delight, wonderful guests who share their passion, and a location that sets the scene. When these factors come together, you have the recipe for a memorable and exceptional cannabis gathering.

In the world of brand cultivation, Joint Venture & Co.. stands out. With an expertise for experiential and live marketing events, they don't just tell stories—they make them felt—rather than just conveying information. Their events are highly coveted and collaborative, leaving guests feeling uplifted and driven. With a keen commitment to social initiatives, Joint Venture & Co. ensures that growth is both purposeful and transformative. Align with them, and let your brand not only shine but also make a difference in the world. For more information on how to take your event from good to EPIC, reach out to their CEO, Ann, via their website https://jointvco.com/

P.S. Ann is such a give-back kind of woman that she herself purchased a ticket to the aforementioned Fog of War event for 1 lucky veteran to attend. Feeling inspired by her giveback initiatives? You can give back too! Reach out to KJ at Fog Of War if you’d like to be like Ann and purchase a ticket to be given to a well-deserving veteran.

What was your favorite cannabis event that you ever attended? Let me know in the comments!

Personal notes:

• Did you see that I launched a brand called High On Plants? Our lifestyle brand features cannabis earrings of multiple colors + stoner puzzles. Code MoonHigh saves you 10% off your purchase for the next week!
• I am available for consulting/coaching on personal branding, social media, and all things LinkedIn. DM me or email me at [email protected] for more information.
• Stay tuned for my next newsletter, which features a holiday gift guide that will be posted here and on Benzinga. If you have a Pink themed cannabis item, feel free to DM me with info for consideration for inclusion!

Stay high friends,

Alice Moon