On May 31, Laguna Woods welcomed The Artist Tree, the first licensed cannabis dispensary in south Orange County. The bright, spacious showroom is filled with the sweet aroma of marijuana and showcases a wide range of cannabis products, including edibles, beverages, topicals, tinctures, pre-rolls, and vape pens.
Customers can explore sensory pods containing marijuana flowers, allowing for close inspection and a whiff of the product. Laguna Woods Village resident Alan Wall noted the variety and quality available, comparing it favorably to past decades.
A steady stream of customers, primarily older residents from the nearby Village retirement community, visited the shop on its opening day. Edibles, especially sleep aids, were particularly popular. Residents like Maureen Mehler, who suffers from spinal stenosis, and Peggy Edwards, who has an essential tremor, praised cannabis for its pain relief and medicinal benefits.
City Councilmember Annie McCary highlighted the convenience and economic benefits of having a local dispensary. Residents also appreciated the opportunity to meet others with similar interests.
Special guest Anna Boyce, author of Proposition 215, attended the opening, praising the long-awaited dispensary. The Artist Tree also functions as an art gallery, currently displaying works by Village artists Phil Eaton and Jim Gibson.
Future plans for the dispensary include educational events, classes on growing cannabis, and cooking with cannabis sessions. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for June 15, featuring free merchandise, discounts, and activities. Delivery service will start on July 8, and the dispensary is open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., accepting cash, checks, or debit cards.
