What to Know Before You Go
Visiting a dispensary for the first time can feel a little like stepping into the unknown. Maybe you’re curious about cannabis but not sure where to start. Maybe you’ve heard confusing things about what’s legal and what isn’t. Maybe you just want to know what to expect so you don’t feel awkward.
That’s completely normal. And honestly? It’s easier than you think.
At Fluresh, we’ve been welcoming first-time visitors since we opened as Grand Rapids’ first recreational cannabis dispensary in October 2020. We’ve seen the nervous looks, answered the “is this a dumb question?” questions (it never is), and watched newcomers leave feeling educated, comfortable, and excited to explore.
That same support is still here for you today. The only difference is how you shop: we’re now curbside pickup only, so you can browse our online menu, place your order from home, and pick it up without ever leaving your car. Our Cannabis Advisers are still ready to answer questions when you arrive.
This guide covers everything you need to know before your first visit, from Michigan cannabis laws to what happens when you pull into our curbside lanes.
Michigan Cannabis Laws: The Basics
Before you visit any dispensary in Michigan, it helps to understand the ground rules.
Adults 21 and older can purchase recreational (adult-use) cannabis with a valid government-issued photo ID. Medical patients can be 18 or older with a valid Michigan medical marijuana registry card.
Dispensaries accept U.S. driver’s licenses, state-issued ID cards, passports, and military IDs. The ID must be current and not expired. Temporary paper licenses are generally not accepted, so bring your hard copy.
A few important things to keep in mind:
Public consumption is illegal. Consume only on private property where it’s allowed.
Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal, just like alcohol.
You cannot take cannabis across state lines, even to another state where it’s legal.
Michigan has purchase limits (2.5 oz of flower per transaction for recreational customers), but this is more than most people need for personal use.
What to Bring to Your First Dispensary Visit
Here’s your quick checklist:
Must have:
- Valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID
- Cash or debit card (more on payment below)
If applicable:
- Your Michigan medical marijuana card (Fluresh is a recreational dispensary, but medical cardholders may qualify for tax savings)
Nice to have:
- A rough idea of what you’re looking for (relaxation, energy, sleep, pain relief)
- Questions for your budtender
About payment: Most dispensaries, including Fluresh, cannot accept credit cards due to federal banking regulations. We accept cash and debit cards. There’s an ATM on-site, and debit transactions typically appear as ATM withdrawals with a small fee (usually a few dollars). It’s a little different from typical retail, but you’ll get used to it quickly.
How to Shop at Fluresh
Shopping with us is simple and stress-free, especially if you’re feeling a little anxious about your first visit. We only offer curbside pickup, so you can browse our menu from the comfort of your home and place your order before you ever leave the house.
Online Ordering with Curbside Pickup
- Browse our online menu from home, on your phone, or through the Fluresh app.
- Add items to your cart, check out, and wait for your “Packed and Ready” text.
- When you arrive at 1213 Phillips Ave SW, pull into one of our curbside lanes and a Cannabis Adviser will bring your order right to your window.
You can ask questions, get recommendations, and handle everything from the comfort of your vehicle. Curbside is the only way we operate, and it’s designed to make your experience quick, easy, and low-pressure.
What to Expect When You Arrive
First-time visitors often wonder what happens when they pull up. Here’s the step-by-step at Fluresh.
Pull into a curbside lane
When you arrive at 1213 Phillips Ave SW, you’ll see our curbside pickup lanes right in front of the building. Pull into an open lane and stay in your car. A Cannabis Adviser will come to your window shortly.
Have your ID ready
Our team will ask to see your valid government-issued ID. This is standard at every licensed dispensary in Michigan. They’ll verify your age and confirm your order. Quick and simple.
Security is normal
You might notice security personnel around the building. This is required by Michigan cannabis regulations. It’s not about intimidation; it’s about compliance and keeping everyone safe.
Meet your Cannabis Adviser
This is where the experience gets personal. Our staff members (we call them Cannabis Advisers, not just budtenders) are trained to help first-timers figure out what might work best for them. Even at curbside, they can answer questions, offer recommendations, and walk you through your order before you leave. No judgment. No pressure.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just say so. We’re here to make this easy.
Cannabis Product Types: A Quick Overview
Walking into a dispensary, you’ll see a lot of product categories. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Flower
Dried cannabis buds that you smoke. Effects typically begin within minutes and last 1-3 hours. This is the most traditional form of cannabis. If you’re new, consider starting with a strain that’s lower in THC or balanced with CBD.
Pre-rolls
Pre-rolled joints ready to smoke. Same effects as flower but more convenient. Good for trying a strain without committing to a larger quantity.
THC Vapes
Vaporizer cartridges or disposable pens. Effects come on quickly (within minutes) and last 1-2 hours. Vapes tend to be more discreet and produce less odor than smoking flower.
Edibles
Cannabis-infused foods and drinks, including gummies, chocolates, and beverages. Effects take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in and can last 4-8 hours. Edibles are one of the easiest categories to overdo, so starting with a low dose (2.5-5mg THC) is essential.
Topicals
Lotions, balms, and creams are applied to the skin. Used for localized relief (muscle soreness, joint pain). Topicals generally do not produce a “high” because they don’t enter the bloodstream.
Dosing Tips for Beginners
The golden rule for first-time cannabis users: start low and go slow.
For flower and vapes: Take one small puff, wait 10-15 minutes, and see how you feel before taking more.
For edibles: Start with 2.5-5mg of THC. Wait at least 2 hours before considering another dose. Many new users make the mistake of eating more because they don’t feel anything right away. Edibles take time to work.
Consider THC:CBD ratios: Products with balanced THC and CBD (like 1:1 ratios) tend to produce milder, more manageable effects. These can be a good starting point if you’re nervous about feeling too high.
General harm reduction tips:
- Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol, especially the first few times.
- Consume in a comfortable, private setting where you feel safe.
- Don’t drive for at least several hours after consuming. Plan your transportation ahead of time.
- Stay hydrated and have snacks nearby.
- If you feel uncomfortable, remember that the effects are temporary. Find a calm space, drink water, and give it time.
This is not medical advice; it is general information to help you make informed decisions.
Preparing for Your Visit to Fluresh
Before you head to our Grand Rapids location, here’s a quick prep list:
Plan your ride. If you’re consuming cannabis after your visit, arrange transportation in advance. Call a rideshare, bring a friend, or plan to wait before driving. Remember, NO consuming in the parking lot of the dispensary!
Check the menu online. Browse our online menu to see what’s in stock, read product descriptions, and get a sense of pricing. You can also use our app to browse and place your order ahead of time.
Look for deals. We regularly run promotions and daily specials. Checking ahead of time can help you stretch your budget.
Verify hours. Fluresh is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm.
Place your order before you arrive. Order through our website, by phone at 616-208-9934, or in our app. When you pull up to 1213 Phillips Ave SW, head into one of our curbside lanes and a Cannabis Adviser will bring your order right to your window.
Write down your questions. Our Cannabis Advisers are happy to help, and having a few questions ready can make the conversation easier if you’re feeling nervous. You can ask anything at the window.
Why First-Timers Choose Fluresh
Since 2020, we’ve built our reputation on making cannabis accessible and approachable, especially for newcomers. We’re not here to impress you with jargon or push the most expensive products. We’re here to help you find what works for your needs, your budget, and your comfort level.
Our curbside setup is designed to feel easy and low-pressure. Pull up, stay in your car, and let us come to you. Our parking lot has dedicated lanes, so you don’t have to stress about finding a spot or figuring out where to go. Our Cannabis Advisers take the time to answer your questions, explain your options, and ensure you leave confident in your purchase.
And if you’re still not sure what to get? That’s fine. We’d rather you ask a dozen questions than drive off with something that doesn’t fit.
Ready to Visit?
Your first dispensary experience should feel good. At Fluresh, we’ve helped thousands of first-time visitors find their footing with cannabis, and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Place your order online, in our app, or on your phone, then swing by our Grand Rapids location at 1213 Phillips Ave SW. Pull into a curbside lane, and we’ll take it from there. If you have questions before your visit, reach out. Our team is happy to help.
Welcome to Fluresh. We’re glad you’re here.