How It Began
In the bustling world of corporate life, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. The breaking point for Lisa Marie and her husband Jonathan came when a demeaning encounter at work sparked a life-altering decision. This pivotal moment led to the birth of The Branch, a unique cannabis store aimed at providing a safe, welcoming space for cannabis enthusiasts. The journey wasn't easy. "We invested all our savings and pension payouts into a cannabis business. And now we're riding the wave," Lisa Marie explains. Despite the ups and downs, they remain committed to their mission of reducing the stigma associated with cannabis use.

A Family-Run Business
The Branch stands out as a family-run enterprise focused on community and education. Lisa Marie and Jonathan work tirelessly to ensure their customers feel comfortable and informed. "We've had people come into our store afraid of cannabis, but they walk out a bit more educated, a bit more comfortable with it, and not feeling so guilty for being a cannabis user," she says.

Education is a cornerstone of The Branch's philosophy. While they don't work directly with doctors, they emphasise the importance of consulting healthcare professionals, especially when combining cannabis with other medications. "We always let them know that we are not doctors. We can help them to the best of our knowledge, but we advise them to consult with their doctors for specific medical advice," Lisa Marie clarifies.

Products and Services
The Branch offers a range of products, from high-quality cannabis sourced from trusted local suppliers to functional mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Reishi. They also provide accessories, ensuring customers have everything they need for a positive cannabis experience. Their focus on quality and safety is unwavering. "We don't manufacture, but we try to associate with companies that have been around for a while or that we know are reputable," says Lisa Marie

Promoting Self-Sufficiency
One unique aspect of The Branch is their encouragement of self-sufficiency through growing cannabis. "We are a small grower shop and try to promote the growing side. It ensures quality control because they know what's going into it if they grow it themselves," Lisa Marie explains. This hands-on approach not only builds trust but also empowers customers to take control of their cannabis consumption.

Overcoming Challenges
Despite their success, challenges remain. Misinformation and subpar products from pop-up shops pose significant hurdles. "People come in asking for 200, 300, 400-milligram edibles, and that's not necessary. This misinformation can damage consumers' trust in cannabis, making education all the more critical.

Social media restrictions also hinder their efforts to reach a broader audience. "Between TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, they're constantly taking my posts down," Lisa Marie shares. Yet, they persevere, finding innovative ways to connect with their community and spread accurate information.

The lack of medical professionals wanting to cooperate with cannabis apothecaries is also challenging.

Celebrating Milestones
Reflecting on their journey, Lisa Marie is proud of their achievements. "For us, it was that we made it through the first year, and we managed to do it on our own. Now it's going on two years, and we're still here; it's mind-blowing." This resilience and dedication set The Branch apart, making it a beacon of trust and quality in the cannabis industry.

On the lighter side
When asked if they have a "strain superhero" in their lineup, Lisa Marie doesn't hesitate. "That would be Future 1, also grown by Mr. Branch. Its superpower? It can humble the boldest of men. Haha." This light-hearted moment reflects the passion and personality that infuse every aspect of The Branch.

Advice for Newcomers
When asked about advice for newcomers to the industry, Lisa Marie's words are heartfelt and sincere. "Firstly, educate yourself on the laws; know what is and is not legal. Then, be sure that you know your product or service really well. Lastly, don't fall for people's expectations of what your life should be. Build your own future."

The Branch's story is one of courage, commitment, and community. It reminds us that sometimes, the most profound changes come from the simplest desires: to create communities, to educate, and to grow—both plants and people.