Today we’d like to introduce you to Shira Bettis.
Shira, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I got into the cannabis industry back in 2019, initially managing the laboratory and formulating products for LSU’s Medical Marijuana program as their Director of Manufacturing. That led to an opportunity with Southern University’s (an HBCU in Louisiana) Medical Marijuana program, where I assisted with setting up their research laboratory. During this time, I noticed how much formulations drive the industry—especially when it comes to consumable cannabis products (edibles, tinctures, drinks, etc.). I was inspired by the fact that the products I was making were helping so many people from all walks of life—veterans with PTSD, children with autism, a former Louisiana Governor who used our products as she was in hospice battling cancer. While I was happy to be improving people’s quality of life, I became disillusioned with the fact that most State-run medical marijuana programs’ products are grossly overpriced and often unaffordable to those who need them most. After doing extensive research on dispensary operations, I decided to open my own online Delta-8 cannabis dispensary in January of this year, specializing in consumable cannabis products.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road, but the bumps along the way have provided me with invaluable learning experiences. The biggest hurdles I’ve faced have been finding the right vendors, finding quality products, and finding innovative ways to advertise since cannabis is still federally illegal… The most daunting issue I face is removing the negative stigmas and preconceived notions that the public still has about cannabis. In 2022, some people still think of cannabis as this evil drug that leads users to ruin.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My dispensary specializes in Delta-8 THC products, which includes gummies, candies, drinks, etc. I also host CannaCuisine dinner parties where guests are served food and cocktails infused with my products.
All of my products are carefully curated and are amazing, but I’m mostly known for my gummies. They’re my bestsellers, and I can barely keep them stocked! I also have seltzers that make great mixers for mocktails that my customers rave about (the pineapple mint is a fave!)
I’m most proud of the fact that I’m thriving in what some may see as an overly saturated market, and I attribute that largely due to my cannabis knowledge and the rapport that I build with my customers. As a Black woman, rarely do I see faces like mine in this industry. Some would see that as a hindrance, but I use it to fuel my passion. I take pride in not only offering guidance on my products but also in educating those in my community on the benefits of cannabis.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
My definition of success is when one can incessantly pursue their passion without restraint.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vintagecannabisco.com
- Instagram: @vintagecannabisco
Image Credits
Trebreh Baaheth
