We created the Budtender Spotlight to celebrate the people behind the counter — the ones who keep cannabis culture thriving through their knowledge, care, and everyday impact. Each month, budtenders are nominated across several meaningful categories, including:
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• Trail Blazer — pushing the industry forward with fresh ideas, leadership, and passion
  
  
• Have Your Bud’s Back — dependable, supportive, and always ready to help their team
  
  
• High Spirits — bringing good energy, positivity, and a great vibe wherever they go
  
  
• Rooted in Integrity — embodying honesty, trust, and strong values in everything they do
  
  
• Customer Champion — going above and beyond to create amazing experiences for every customer
  
  
• Strain Specialist — knowing their products inside and out

In June, we received an incredible wave of nominations from across the industry, and we’re excited to highlight a standout group of budtenders who truly went above and beyond their roles. These passionate pros aren’t just selling cannabis — they’re building community, shaping experiences, and keeping the culture alive.

We caught up with each winner to hear their story — from the moments that keep them inspired, to the team dynamics that make their dispensary feel like home. At Kayapush, we know that thriving cannabis businesses are built on strong teams — and these budtenders are living proof. Here’s what we uncovered from our incredible June winners.

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Introducing Our June Winners & Their Dispensaries

BillieMarie LovedayJuett from Cost Cannabis (AB, ON, SK)

BillieMarie brings her community-centered energy to Cost Cannabis, a multi-location retailer with stores across Alberta, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. Known for offering everyday value and consistent pricing, Cost Cannabis makes cannabis accessible without compromising on experience. BillieMarie’s approachable, people-first vibe reflects the heart of the brand, making every visit feel easy, informative, and welcoming for all.
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Charlee Edwards from Rocky Mountain Cannabis (New Mexico, USA)

Charlee brings her spark to Rocky Mountain Cannabis, a proudly local dispensary serving communities across New Mexico. Known for their one-of-a-kind shopping experience and wide selection of premium products, RMC is driven by a team that truly believes in the power of the plant — and it shows. With most of their corporate team getting their start as budtenders, there’s a deep understanding of what great service looks like, and Charlee embodies that at every step. Her warmth, knowledge, and team-first mindset are a perfect reflection of the RMC family: passionate, people-driven, and dedicated to elevating the cannabis experience.
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Howard Thompson III from Cannabis Central (Clifton Park, New York, USA)

Howard is a vital part of Cannabis Central, a trusted single-location dispensary nestled in Clifton Park, New York. Serving a growing community in the Capital Region, Cannabis Central prides itself on being more than just a store — it’s a welcoming hub where people can explore the many benefits of cannabis in a supportive environment. With a carefully curated selection of high-quality products at accessible prices, Cannabis Central ensures everyone — from first-timers to seasoned users — feels comfortable and confident in their choices. Howard embodies this mission through his personalized, knowledgeable approach, helping customers navigate the plant’s wonders while fostering a sense of belonging and community.
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Christian Baker from The Herbery (Vancouver, Washington, USA)

Christian is a standout team member at The Herbery, a well-respected dispensary with multiple locations throughout Vancouver, Washington. The Herbery is known for its culture of kindness, empathy, and integrity, setting a high standard in the cannabis retail experience. Their Herbtenders are certified before day one, ensuring they are well-versed in the latest cannabis products and science, providing customers with informed recommendations. Christian embodies these values daily, offering personalized service and fostering a welcoming environment for all who walk through the door.
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Why Do Our Winning Budtenders Love What They Do?

For these budtenders, it’s never just about the plant — it’s about the people they serve and the community they help build. Their passion shines through in every interaction, making the dispensary more than just a workplace. Here’s what motivates them to show up and make a difference day after day:
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“The customer connections! Being able to talk and relate to people from all walks of life.” — BillieMarie, Cost Cannabis
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“I love the community and how my work feels like home.” — Charlee, Rocky Mountain Cannabis

“The customer interactions and overall environment!” — Howard, Cannabis Central

“I love giving people a reason to come in. Nowadays, people need that more than ever.” — Christian, Herbery 78th

From sparking a smile to guiding someone through their first experience, these budtenders remind us that connection is the real cornerstone of cannabis culture. Whether it’s sparking a smile, guiding someone new, or being a daily dose of good energy, these four are redefining what it means to be frontline in cannabis.

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What Does Team Culture Feel Like?

We asked each winner to sum up their team culture in just one word — and the responses say everything:

• Inclusive — BillieMarie
• Family — Charlee & Howard
• Synergy — Christian
  
  

But it wasn’t just about how they feel in their teams — it was also about how they’re seen. Each of these budtenders was nominated by someone who noticed their impact, whether it was for being “the glue that holds us together,” “always helpful and knowledgeable,” or someone who simply “makes this place feel like home.”

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Big Thanks to Our Nominators

When we asked what they admired most about the person who nominated them, their answers showed genuine appreciation:

“Her passion and knowledge!” – Billie Marie, nominated by Tanya, VP of Operations

“Everything! He’s the glue that keeps us together.” – Charlee, nominated by Jay, Manager 

“They’re always extremely helpful and knowledgeable.” – Howard, nominated by Jessica, Manager

“She's very attentive to customers and it shows.” – Christian, nominated by Alexandra, Manager 

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The support runs deep — just like the roots of this community.

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Celebrating the Faces of the Plant

Each month, we shine a light on the people behind the counter — the educators, the empathizers, and the everyday legends of cannabis culture.

To our June winners — Billie Marie, Charlee, Howard, and Christian — thank you for showing up, standing out, and raising the bar!

Know someone who deserves the spotlight? Nominate a budtender who’s making an impact — we’re always looking for the next great story.