Madge Love Meets showcases the women in our community with inspiring stories. We caught up with Rihana Mahmoud, owner of Purple Haze an independent dispensary located in downtown Toronto who shared her journey into the cannabis world and some of her self-care habits.
Madge Love: Tell us about your background and career… how did you move from there into the cannabis industry?
Rihana: I moved to Toronto to pursue my post-secondary education and studied Political Science at UofT. During my university years, I started working in retail, and this journey led me to Holt Renfrew. Since my childhood, I have been fascinated by art and fashion hence this was an unexpectedly great match.
My journey in the cannabis industry started unexpectedly when my friend and business partner suggested we open a legal dispensary over dinner one evening. What started out as a casual conversation manifested itself into a store in downtown Toronto. This journey has been quite an educational adventure!
ML: What is your favourite part about what you do?
Rihana: My favorite part of what I do must be the people I interact with every day: my team, our customers, the reps of the different brands. Everyone I have encountered who works in the cannabis industry is extremely open-minded, charismatic, and friendly. I learn something new and am challenged every day.
ML: How has being a woman impacted your experience in the industry?
Rihana: Being a female business owner, especially at the beginning of my journey came with its challenges. I found there were two extremes, while some people will help you all the way, others are skeptical of your capabilities. These are the ones who make you work harder and prove to yourself that you can overcome any unforeseen hurdles. Growing pains always make you stronger!
ML: What makes your retail experience unique?
Rihana: We are all about the customer experience! When you come into our shop, we want you to feel comfortable in our environment, educate you on everything Cannabis related and make the perfect match.
ML: Do you have any tips for people who may be hesitant to visit a dispensary for the first time?
Rihana: Take the plunge, it’s worth it. A budtender will educate you before you make your selection. Education is the key factor in eliminating the stigma that is attached to Cannabis.
ML: What does wellness mean to you?
Rihana: Wellness for me means taking care of my body and mind. I practice Yoga and work out a few times a week. “Me-time” is essential for me, I try to take a moment to read, explore or learn something new as often as my schedule allows me. Visit new Art Exhibits, go out into nature or read a book at my favorite coffee shop.
ML: Do you use cannabis? Why or why not?
Rihana: I truly believe in CBD products, hence they are my favorite to try. Among my favorites are the lavender fizz bath bomb by Noon&Night and Madge & Mercer’s La Calma CBD Oil. I find them overall calming, especially after a tough workout or when it’s that time of the month.
ML: What are the essential items in your self-care toolkit?
A Lip Balm, by Shiseido was introduced to me by my Japanese friend.
Chantecaille’s Rose Water spray and Fresh’s Rose face moisturizer
Newly into Madge & Mercer’s CBD facial serum!
Oribe’s Gold Lust Hair Oil (perfect for my sometimes-unruly curly hair)
Thanks so much Rihana! Be sure to check out Purple Haze at 75 Mutual Street and stock up on all your MADGE AND MERCER MODERN APOTHECARY self-care essentials.