When it comes to medical marijuana or recreational-use cannabis, the two have more in common than you might expect.

That means many people who have not been issued a medical cannabis recognition card visit Island Herb on Whidbey Island seeking relief from health-related symptoms, explains general manager Eric Wing.

“I would say close to half of the people come in asking for help relieving such issues as a lack of sleep, anxiety or stress,” he says.

The extensive training taken by Island Herb staff allows them to advise those clients, as well as those shopping for recreational use, about the wide range of products available, Wing notes.

Going above and beyond

While Island Herb is a Washington State Department of Health medically endorsed cannabis retailer store, they go a step further, Wing says. Rather than simply having the one required staff member complete the State’s medical marijuana certified consultant course, all staff working with clients are certified.

That gives consultants a broader range of knowledge to draw upon when advising clients, and means medical clients with recognition cards don’t have to wait until a certified consultant becomes available.

Working to create familiarity

With cannabis available in many different strains, forms and potency, selecting the right products for you can be complex. Initially at least, it requires spending time with a consultant, discussing your desired outcome. That relationship building is a key part of providing top-notch customer service, Wing says.

To that end, Island Herb works hard to show appreciation for its staff, as a way to build the service continuity that ultimately benefits clients. “Whether it’s through compensation and benefits, or involving them in decision-making – from choosing what we’ll stock to refining our retailing processes – we’re creating an environment where our employees want to be there,” Wing says.

New app makes things easier

If you like the idea of selecting your products at your leisure then dropping in for a quick pick-up at the store, the Island Herb team encourage you to try out the Leafly app as a streamlined way to purchase. Once you’ve registered with Leafly, simply breeze through the Island Herb product menu on your phone or desktop, confirm your selection then pick up your package at the store.

Shop in a relaxed environment

From its large, comfortable retail space in Freeland on South Whidbey, Island Herb offers weekly specials, veterans’ discounts and education about the properties of cannabis products. You’re invited to stop by, meet the staff and check out the selection, and stay on top of the latest news on their Facebook page.

Island Herb’s large store is well set up for you to pick up orders easily or work with consultants to learn about the array of cannabis products available..