Make Sure You Stick To These Rules When It Comes to Advertising Cannabis on Social Media

It’s clear that we are moving in the direction of more progressive times. If you are in the business of cannabis, it’s safe to say you should be looking at some prosperous growth over the next few years, no pun intended. And like any business – you are not excused from your digital footprint. Advertising cannabis on social media allows your business to reach your target audience, permitting further explanation of the benefits and rewards of using your products. Because we are working with marijuana on a commercial scale, it’s important to know the advertising policies and limitations of each platform according to Green Entrepreneur ¹.

What is Pinterest pinning?

The limitation with Pinterest is using the platform for the commercial sale of cannabis. Advertisements which encourage or boost the usage of any form of illegal recreational drug is strictly prohibited. Fortunately, Pinterest does allow users to post advertisements promoting the health benefits of Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp products. However, the only cannabis products deemed appropriate are the byproducts of CBD-only oils and hemp which do not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Pinterest also permits organic cannabis content with a more artistic or educational nature.

What is Twitter tweeting?

Drugs and drug paraphernalia are out. There are some hard rules regarding drug use, dispensaries, accessories associated with drug use, and herbal drugs. Therefore, the use of Twitter to solely advertise your cannabis on social media may be more on the limiting side. Twitter does permit organic usage of the word “marijuana” and there are pages with marijuana themes in which users could tweet about cannabis use and culture. If the agenda seems more organic and it’s not just about the hard sale – promoting medical cannabis could be permitted as well.

What are we Snapping?

The rules and regulations are less clear when it comes to Snapchat. The one thing we do know is that any advertisements regarding illegal or recreational drugs and their paraphernalia are prohibited. You can take Snapchat out of the race if you’d like to run any cannabis ads on a social media platform. Like its other social media family members – content regarding marijuana and cannabis are found on Snapchat, but there is no solid promotion of selling cannabis and its byproducts.

What are we watching on the Tube?

Youtube is substantially more flexible than the others. There are no specifications regarding the advertisement of illegal drugs but it does dictate that dangerous or harmful content is off limits with a “not suitable” disclaimer. Sharing any content on the topic of medical marijuana use and its benefits is allowed – including cannabis material for documentaries, education, and artistic purposes.

What’s streaming on Reddit?

Reddit has more general guidelines in which the platform does not allow particular content. Any content that promotes illegal activities will include an advertising policy with a disclaimer stating that ads promoting recreational drugs and substances will not be tolerated. It does not specify if cannabis itself – medical or recreational alike – are prohibited. Promoting cannabis content and products in an educational and informative light should be okay. 

How’s trusty old Facebook?

Facebook appears to be on board with its other social media comrades. This means zero promotion of illegal or recreational drugs. It will carry your business page with cannabis or marijuana content if it’s tasteful, educational, and organic. If there is even a hint of a promotional nature – Facebook will put a stop to it.

What are we Googling?

Oh Google, why so serious? Dangerous products and services – including recreational drugs of the chemical and herbal form are a no. There are no clear indications if educational or artistic content on cannabis is acceptable in their policies either. It’s safe to say that advertising cannabis on this platform may be tricky. However, Google Bloggers writing on your behalf could publish content related to the herb, so long as there’s no promotion or encouragement of dangerous and illegal content.

Where does this leave you?

We are living in very interesting times. With cannabis, we are somewhere between glorifying the medicinal herb and struggling over its national legality. While most social media platforms may not be on board to promote cannabis today, with continued exposure on the subject we are certainly moving in the right direction.

If you’re in the business of hemp and need help defining your brand, contact us for help. At Herban Creative, we’re skilled in branding, SEO, design work, and social media. We can create content for your brand that informs consumers and drives sales. Contact us today to learn more!

Keeping Your Logo Ideas Unique in a Growing Industry

One of the fun attributes of the cannabis industry is the inventive logo designs that represent the brands. Across the market, the designs for these businesses are often visually appealing.

However, cannabis related businesses are popping up all over the place these days, and every business is trying to establish a spot in its local market. In order to be competitive in a crowded market, a logo that allows you to stand out holds precedence.

If you’re getting ready to design a logo for your cannabis related business, take a look at these considerations:

Try experimenting with color. It’s natural to gravitate toward the color green in your designs, but know it’s not essential. Don’t be afraid to work with other colors and see what truly captivates the brand you are looking to achieve.

Experiment with a serif font. Currently, the typography trend in cannabis logo designs is heavily sans serif fonts. It does look great with a simplistic design, but there’s a ton of interesting serif fonts out there waiting to make an appearance in the cannabis world. Since not that many companies are utilizing serif fonts, it might be a good way to make your logo stand out. Typography started with serif fonts, and we all know what’s classic never really goes out of style.

Know what your competitors’ branding is like. In order to stand out, you must know what you’re up against. Do an analysis of the competitors in close proximity. What does their logo design look like? How does their logo reflect their brand image?

It’s vital you differentiate creatively from your toughest competitors. Craft your logo design to uniquely represent your own company. Although, if you have a similar voice and audience as a competitor, one up them with a unforgettably stellar design.

Craft your design around your brand identity. It’s necessary that all aspects of business are consistent. To evaluate brand identity, examine your target audience. If the audience is 22-28 year olds, you’ll likely have more free reign when drafting your logo. On the other hand, if your target audience is young mothers, you’ll certainly need a more professional, clean-cut appearance. It’s likely mothers won’t be as keen on a business with cannabis plants plastered all over their branding due to their children.

In short, know your audience and dissect the way they think and feel about a brand like yours. By taking a look at their interests, motivations, and way of life, you should gain a better understanding of what they look for in a business like yours.

Don’t fret if you feel stuck in your design, as there are several tools out there to help you. As an experienced marketing agency, Herban Creative has members of our team who specialize in logo design. We would love to design a logo for you that makes your business stand out. Contact us for assistance, we’d love to hear from you.

Hemp 101: Know Your Cannabis

The cannabis industry isn’t simply comprised of products from marijuana. Of course there’s the popular CBD oil, but what about the overlooked market of hemp? By no means is hemp, a particular cannabis plant, new to market, or that similar to marijuana. Hemp has been around since America was discovered as the New World.

In Colonial times, hemp was a valued material. Like most things, it’s role and value changed over time, and the usefulness of hemp became overshadowed by other issues.

When did we get hemp mixed up with marijuana?

Back in the 70s, when the war on drugs was declared, hemp got grouped in with marijuana, which was classified as a Schedule I drug. In this effort to stop a drug that became so popular among young people, the plant in its entirety was framed as harmful. It didn’t help that the ban of marijuana made it near impossible to get approval to grow hemp for its multitude of uses. Hemp does not provide the same effects as marijuana, although both hemp and marijuana derive from cannabis sativa plants.

Hemp and Marijuana: Not exactly two of a kind

As a matter of fact, marijuana and hemp are grown from two different types of cannabis sativa plants. The physical features and uses of each plant differ. For one, the cultivation of each plant is dramatically different. The plants that grow marijuana require a lot of attention and regular control over the atmosphere throughout the cultivation process. On the other hand, hemp requires minimal attention, and is able to grow in most climates. Not only that, but the physical appearances of both plants show they’re more like cousins than brothers.

A Different Chemical Makeup

A huge distinction between the chemical properties of the two plants is the difference in its psychoactive effects. As known, marijuana has psychoactive properties, ranging anywhere from a low to high percentage of THC (5%-35%). Alternatively, hemp has no psychoactive properties, with <.3% of THC. Therefore, hemp isn’t meant for the use of getting high, and the slight amount of THC isn’t relevant for the products it’s used for.

So what is hemp used for?

Interestingly enough, hemp is used for a whole slew of products. Americans have used hemp for centuries to make clothing, rope, and other various textiles. Since those days, it’s also been used in nutrition, building materials, fuel, beauty products, and other consumer clothing or accessory products.

It’s obvious hemp and marijuana aren’t the same, and the grouping of the two was a result of other legal issues from many years back. As previously stated, hemp products have been around for a long time, and it’s likely they’ll just keep evolving. Hopefully, hemp finds its voice in the market and is identified for its unique purposes separate from marijuana.

If you’re in the business of hemp and need help defining your brand, contact us for help. At Herban Creative, were skilled in branding, SEO, design work, and social media. We can create content for your brand that informs consumers and drives sales. Contact us today to learn more!

A Look Back at the History of Cannabis in Our Country

Cannabis is a trending topic in America these days. It seems like every day you hear more of your coworkers and friends discussing the CBD oil that dissipates their stress and combats their post-workout soreness. In the news, you hear more about approved marijuana laws and talk from more government officials promising future legalization. Of course, cannabis wasn’t always the positive talk of the town. Throughout its presence in the United States, cannabis has gone through a wild ride, and the opinions and laws around it have been ever changing. Take a look back at the history of cannabis in our country and see how far the popular plant has come since its earlier days.

The cannabis timeline doesn’t end here. 2019 is expected to bring new changes on cannabis laws from states all over the country. The cannabis plant has come a long way since its introduction to the New World, and it still has a long way to go.

Looking for more news and updates in the cannabis industry? Check out the rest of our blog today!

The Impact of Cannabis on a Business’ Tax Deductions

It’s critical any cannabis entrepreneur understands that the cannabusiness world is different from any other business. It’s not just the business model or supply chain, it’s the tight wiggle room from several laws and regulations on all sectors of business. Filing taxes on a cannabis business is certainly a part business owners must pay close attention to. According to Forbes, due to unchanged federal laws on marijuana and strict guidelines by the IRS, tax deduction laws are quite unique to the cannabis industry. It’s important business owners know and understand tax section 280E, as it directly applies to them.

Tax Section 280e

This tax section requires that cannabis businesses file federal taxes under this tax code. All Schedule I and II trafficked controlled substances are directed to, and according to the federal government, marijuana falls under this category as a Schedule 1. This includes the growing, buying, and selling of marijuana. Essentially, this tax code means cannabis businesses need to pay taxes on all of their revenue. Therefore, making them ineligible from using business expenses as tax deductions.

In its totality, section 280E states: “No deduction or credit shall be allowed for any amount paid or incurred during the taxable year in carrying on any trade or business if such trade or business (or the activities which comprise such trade or business) consists of trafficking in controlled substances (within the meaning of Schedule I and II of the Controlled Substances Act) which is prohibited by federal law or the law of any state in which such trade or business is conducted.”

What Does This Mean for Cannabis Business Owners?

Simply put, business owners in the cannabis industry pay tax on their gross income. Since marijuana is a Schedule I substance, this section prohibits them from the tax deduction benefits of a typical business owner. State legalization hasn’t wavered the federal regulations of marijuana, thus putting cannabis businesses under extreme scrutiny by the IRS. Previous cannabusiness owners have faced harsh repercussions for disobeying the tax act and failing to efficiently fill taxes.

The punishments are costly, and the IRA is certainly paying attention to the financial workings of all cannabis businesses. To the business owners in this industry, you need to abide by section 280E and thoroughly understand your legal tax expectations to clear yourself and your business from an attack by the IRS.

There are a lot of hoops to jump through in the cannabis industry. Even business owners from the states with seven years of recreational legalization aren’t fully experts. Many mistakes have been made in industry due to the high regulations surrounding marijuana. For the vets and the newbies, pay close attention to the laws that surround your industry, they’re changing all the time. Through attention to the fluctuating laws on regulations, you can learn how to market and craft your business accordingly in this highly-censored industry.

For assistance on marketing your business, contact us at Herban Creative. We have all the marketing and digital experience necessary to grow your cannabusiness from the ground up.

Follow These Networking Tips on How to Expand Your Cannabis Related Business

When it comes to any industry, networking plays an important role in growth. Especially at the beginning of your company’s endeavors, helpful industry contacts can lead to business and new knowledge. For most of the country, cannabis is still new to the market, or a faraway concept. At the same time, in a few states, legal cannabis is old news. The cannabis businesses within these states are well seasoned vets in the industry. As a matter of fact, they were the pioneers who crafted the industry and its current standards. They’ve already experienced the do’s and don’ts, and there’s a ton that they can teach us.

If you’re new to the cannabis industry, it’s wise to gain insight from those who understand the industry a bit better. Which makes networking a vital piece in the puzzle of expansion. To do networking right, follow these tips at your next networking event or business outing.

1. Build Relationships: Genuine relationships will get you farther in your industry. Don’t run around networking events merely trying to gain contacts and sell your business. Instead, start investing time in building actual relationships. These are the contacts that will help push you further. Not only that, but true industry relationships will tell a lot about the integrity of your business.
2. Do Your Research: Before attending a networking event, look up who will be in attendance and what they’re all about. Learn about these people and their companies to not only know who to connect with, but how to do so. Completing prior research gives insight on what the attendees specialize in, and sparks topic ideas for you to bring up in person. Additionally, acknowledging that you already know a bit about their business displays your interest in what they do. This will excite your colleagues and naturally direct the conversation, not to mention this will make you more memorable.
3. Ask Questions: Historically, asking questions is an excellent way to learn. Set your ego aside and be willing to ask and learn from others in your industry. Doing so will create a true dialogue, and you’ll likely get more out of the conversation. It exemplifies your care and dedication to the industry.
4.  Be Attentive and Listen: Coinciding with relationship building, is listening. If you want to expand your business, you must be attentive to what other entrepreneurs in the industry have to say. Listening is an overlooked, yet excellent way to engage with new people. When you make the effort to listen to others, you not only network, but you learn too.
5. Prep for potential conversations: If you’re headed to a networking event with the leaders in your industry, it’s crucial you’re well prepared. Find a way to clearly articulate what your business is all about in a concise and clear manner. Have an elevator pitch ready to go. Also, exude confidence while discussing your company, show that you’re sure of what you’re selling. It will add to your professionalism, and ideally, make conversing with others a much easier task.
6. Make an impression: There are often a ton of people at networking events. Because of this, if you don’t make an impression, you’ll easily be forgotten. Take your time to really engage with whoever you’re speaking with, and find your unique way to positively stand out in others’ minds.
7.  Business cards: A memorable and professional business card is a power tool in networking as you pass along contact information through design. Craft an image for your business knowing first impressions dictate a lasting opinion. It’s essential your business card reinforces the intrigue and professionalism you established when talking with colleagues.
8. Follow up: While you’re still top-of-mind, reach out to those you connected with at the event. Send them a thoughtful email, even something as simple as expressing how great it was to meet with them.

Make use of these networking tips and you should gain quite a few contacts in your industry. Be open to learning from your new contacts, and put in the effort to build lasting relationships. You can never learn too much or know too many people.

For more information on growing your cannabis industry business, check us out at Herban Creative. We can help you establish your unique brand and gain more traction. Contact us today!

How Legalization in Canadian Law Has Affected the Country

Recently, Canada became the poster child of marijuana legalization for developed nations. The entire world is watching Canada’s every move, and there’s a natural curiosity on Canada’s approach. There’s a lot of details that go along with the legalization, especially from province to province. Similar to the laws enforced by state in the US, there are similar provincial regulations occurring in Canada. Take a look at how Canada approaches the beginning of legal cannabis in its first phase of the new law.

When did this Canadian law go into effect?

Marijuana became legal in Canada on October 17, 2018. Canadian government is placing strict guidelines around the now legal plant, and they might change frequently depending on this first phase of legalization.

Who is eligible to purchase marijuana?

According to CNN ¹, in Canada, you must be 19 years of age to purchase, consume, and possess marijuana. Since provincial governments have responsibility over cannabis, the age limit varies in certain areas. In order to match the drinking age, most provincial governments raised the age to 19. The folk in Alberta and Quebec only need to be 18 years old, although there’s talk about new government officials in Quebec bumping the legal age up to 21.

Where can you legally use and purchase cannabis?

Cannabis can be bought online or in retail stores, due to the Canadian Cannabis Act. According to Ontario.ca ², people 19 and over are able to purchase cannabis online through the Ontario Cannabis Stores (OCS.ca). Online orders will be delivered safely and securely. Consumers will be required to verify their age to accept delivery and no packages will be left unattended at the door.

Provincial governments have major control over distribution and regulation. Unlike the United States, where cannabis businesses are booming and have a lot of control.

The acceptable locations of usage also vary from one area to another. In certain places you can smoke marijuana anywhere tobacco smoking is allowed, other areas don’t allow any form of public consumption. In provinces where smoking in public is legal, smoking in cars and places where children are often present are banned.

How much can you legally buy and possess?

As of right now, there’s a 30-gram limit on possession in public and how much can be bought at once. Most legal recreational pot states in the US have the same limit. On a similar note, there’s also a limit on the number of marijuana plants grown at home. The law allows up to four plants per home, but Quebec and Manitoba decided to prohibit home growing all together.

What does this mean for Canadian citizens, government, and the economy?

With these changes come a lot of uncharted territory. It’s difficult to determine the results that will come from these new law implications. For citizens, it doesn’t really equal protection from criminalized charges surrounding marijuana. If anything, the laws are stricter. There are a ton of regulations around driving with cannabis, consumption, possession, and resell. If Canadians don’t pay close attention and follow the outlined rules per province, they could find themselves in trouble with the law.

It’s expected the legal distribution of cannabis will boost Canada’s economy. At the same time, this legalization anticipates lessening the billions of dollars that go into the black market each year. In regard to the government, legalization allows more control, and stricter regulations surrounding the plant.

It’s obvious the regulations around cannabis will grow and change as Canada explores the results of legalization. Even if Canada has a rocky start, the country will go down in history as one of the first lead examples of countrywide legal cannabis.

Unlike Canada, the growing, selling, and distribution of marijuana in the U.S. isn’t government run. These businesses grow in competition as more states legalize marijuana. Take action to stand out amongst your competitors, and contact Herban Creative today to enhance your website, branding, social media, SEO, and more.

All You Need to Know About Cannabis Beer

Out of all the cannabis infused products on the rise right now, cannabis beer is gaining a ton of attention. The flood of craft breweries in the United States proves the popularity of the diverse alcoholic beverage. Although, the statistical preference of cannabis over alcohol in legalized states suggests beer companies face a tough competitor. Beer sales show a decrease in these states while cannabis sales remain on the rise. So, it seems safe to say that breweries adapting cannabis into their beers may be on to something.

Is it or is it not beer?

For starters, this cannabis-infused beer isn’t actually beer. Federal rules stand against mixing alcohol with marijuana, therefore these beer tasting drinks won’t actually have any alcohol in them. Right now, there’s a strong emphasis in place on flavor for the brewers already selling in Colorado, California, and now, Washington. The idea is to keep beer lovers on beer rather than losing them to cannabis altogether. At the same time, brewers want their consumers to love the beer because of its taste, not solely for its traces of marijuana. Statistics show that alcohol drinkers in states with legal recreational marijuana use are already switching their preferred substance. By including cannabis in beer, beer companies are meeting the demands of the consumers. Plus, this new product offers beer drinkers a way to drink beer without the typical hangover effects.

So what’s in it exactly?

Every cannabis beer isn’t created equal. Some companies infuse with hemp oil while others use CBD. Every beer has hops in it, but the difference in cannabis beer is the lack of fermentation. Therefore, it’s not actually alcoholic, nor is it technically beer, but it’s still intended to taste like it. Recently, the makers of Blue Moon beer are making headlines with their carefully brewed THC-infused drink. Only available in Colorado, this beverage was created to give the similar buzz-like feeling you’d get from beer.

Will you still “feel” it?

While THC-infused beer is just arriving from concept to completion, it’s likely it could be a big hit for cannabis users and beer drinkers. Whether or not you “feel” it depends on several factors, like what beer you drink, what’s in it, and how much you consume. The creators of THC Blue Moon beer says you feel the effects at the same pace as a normal beer. The best part? No morning headache or signs of a hangover. Comparing the side effects of beer versus marijuana, the THC-infused beer is referred to as a more health conscious options for consumers.

A look ahead

It’s safe to say there will be less hangovers in the future thanks to cannabis beer. Even more, with the increased popularity of craft beer in the United States, it’s highly possible cannabis beer may be the next big thing for breweries. However, it could be ways down the road. Even with the legalization of recreational marijuana in more states, there’s no telling when, and if, federal law will change. For now, it will only be sold in approved dispensaries.

Lately, there’s a lot of talk whether or not cannabis beer can transform the nature of social drinking. With its anti-anxiety effects, cannabis beverages could ease the anxious feeling in social settings, and possibly even lessen the number of beverages one consumes during social drinking. On a similar note, beers infused with CBD could also positively affect consumers. The very popular cannabinoid derived from marijuana has gained a lot of recent attention in the wellness industry, and for good reason. It has zero psychological effects, and has the ability to calm the user and ease anxiety without altering the users state of mind. Ultimately, if created correctly, it could be a good product for those anxious in social situations.

Ultimately, the beer industry looks to stay alive alongside the flourishing cannabis industry. Cannabis beer could be a healthier vice for those who use alcohol to calm their nerves. Also, it will decrease the risks caused from regular alcohol consumption. All in all, only time will tell the direction of this new market, but rest assured cannabis beer will only become more common as time goes on.

If you’re a cannabis related company and looking to find your place in the industry, allow us help you out. Our team at Herban Creative are seasoned digital natives, and we specialize in everything from branding to SEO, web design, and social media. Contact us today so we can make your cannabis business stand out.

New Ways Legal Cannabis Affects Supply Chain

The legal distribution of marijuana is still fairly new, and brings about several adjustments to the way the industry runs. Cannabis is a thriving industry, and it’s only expected to keep growing by the year 2025. Right now, supply chain is an intricate and crucial aspect of cannabis distribution, and as the industry grows, it’s destined for change. An industry that was once solely a black market, now requires a new scope in supply chain management. The constantly changing regulations and high consumer demand bring about many obstacles for the distribution of cannabis.

In Comes the Middle Man

The legalization of marijuana introduced several new aspects of the industry, including supply chains. Of course, all product-based business need a supply chain, but for cannabis it’s a bit different. Back when legalization was strictly from a medical standpoint, distribution was straight forward. Typically, the growers or cooperatives personally delivered the medical products directly to the end user. However, recreational legalization is totally different. Now, a very basic supply chain model for cannabis looks like this:

1. Growers → 2. Distributors → 3. Sellers

With licensed marijuana distribution companies, logistics and transportation is handled by the distributor, not the grower. Due to this, distributors can represent various brands, selling the same cannabis goods to different retailers. A similar model is that of the beer distribution industry. In fact, many licensed distributors say beer distribution inspires similar operations of this industry. There’s certainly room for improvement in supply change, and it’s assumed the processes will continuously change along with the regulations.

Security

A rather unnoticed yet important principle in the cannabis supply chain is security. Consumers want trust with their local sellers, which naturally falls back on the distributors that get these products to the shelves. Since cannabis distribution still isn’t completely normalized for all citizens, it’s paramount to the industry that consumers feel the supply chain is reliable. Similarly, like any good business, cannabis retailers need to keep up with demand. Having secure supply chain management guarantees your ability to meet consumer needs.

What’s to Come for Cannabis Supply Chain

At this time, federal regulations still place big hoops to jump through for any marijuana-related businesses. The constantly changing landscape and the rapid legalization across America forecasts more changes to regulations in the future. In this early phase, adaptability is essential for distributors and sellers. In order for distributors to keep up with the changes and efficiently meet high consumer demands, they will have to adjust to fit the standards.

Although efficient supply chain is vital, unique branding and brand management is right there with it. Different companies attract certain consumers, and without their demand, distribution isn’t the biggest difficulty. Optimize every area of your cannabis company and spruce up your branding with the help of our professional marketers at Herban Creative. Contact us today for more information.

How Do You Pair Your Cannabis Business with An Agency?

Marketing your cannabis businesses is unlike most industries in the world of advertising. The various rules and restrictions across online platforms tend to take away your efforts to market freely. In this case, allowing a marketing agency to control your marketing agenda is the best way to ensure it’s done correctly.

But how do you find a good agency to meet the needs in this growing market, and your company in particular? The cannabis industry is an especially creative one, and differentiating your business is critical for standing out. To find the right match, it takes a lot of reflection and consideration. Ask yourself these five questions to bring you closer to discovering an ideal marketing partner.

What are your business needs? 

To begin your agency search journey, define what you aspire to achieve through your marketing efforts. You can do so by identifying a brand personality and what must be accomplished in your strategy in order to achieve this. After you’ve identified your needs you’ll have a clearer idea on what qualities you may need from an agency.

Perhaps your main focus is out of the box creative visuals, so you’ll want an agency with a strong art department. Or rather, your main goal is to focus on developing a strong branding, so an agency with exceptional branding experience will be a priority.

Is their personal branding lame or impressive?

Although it’s said you should never judge a book by it’s cover, you may want to judge an agency based off its personal branding. After all, branding, web, and logo design are likely ways the agency will assist your business. Therefore, it’s not a bad idea to see what type of work they’ve produced, especially for themselves. The language and design used on the website express the agency’s personal style and skills, and after identifying your brand personality and needs, this is a good way to test the waters. The cannabis industry is full of visually creative logos and strong branding which makes standing out crucial for attracting consumers.

Is the agency cannabis specific?

To market well, you must know the ins and outs of the industry, which is why the wisest option is a cannabis specific agency. If you’re already involved in the industry, you should be aware of the heavy rules and regulations in place around cannabis marketing. With that being said, it should be a guarantee that your cannabis agency knows these rules well and stays up to date on any changes. By now, there are certain do’s and do not’s of cannabis marketing and there’s no need to repeat mistakes.  If your agency is uninformed on the regulations, than you should definitely go back to the drawing board.

What will the strategy look like?

Another important ingredient is what the agency offers regarding marketing strategies. Make sure that the agency you choose is thorough from top to bottom in your marketing plan. Don’t settle for an agency that only offers vague or general descriptions of its strategies. Look for complete plans of execution and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Consider how comprehensive the plan is and reflect on its ability to address your needs.

Are they reliable communicators?

Like any successful relationship, good communication is key. Begin evaluating this from your first verbal interaction. It’s presumed that whom you first talk business with will be one of your go-to representatives, and how they interact with you goes a long way. Were they vague in business answers? Were they knowledgeable? If they didn’t have the answer to a question, did they make an effort to find one?

You need your agency to understand your business objectives and marketing needs at the same level you do. This starts and ends with communication. Everything from how they speak, answer emails, to how long it takes to get back to you gives insight on what type of communicators they are. If they maintain good communication with your business, they’re likely a dependable agency.

Multiple factors play a role in the quest for a cannabis marketing agency. First things first, narrow your search down to cannabis specific agencies to reduce wasted time. You need to spend your time defining your business needs rather than worrying about your agency complying with industry rules. When you find a good agency it allows you to leave marketing to the experts and grants time to devote to other business endeavors.

Be patient in your decision. If an agency doesn’t check the necessary boxes, know there are others out there that will. If you’re looking for a well-informed cannabis specific agency, talk with the professionals at Herban Creative to discover how we can be your marketing match.