Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Connors.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In 2014, I moved to California and was inspired to join the many activists before me in building a legal cannabis industry. I love the plant and came from a consumer products background, so I was inspired to create a brand with a fresh aesthetic and point of view that wasn’t coming through the existing landscape. I was also very motivated to help shape a values-led industry that helps repair the harms caused by the War on Drugs and includes equity for the Black and brown people on whose backs this industry was built.
Has it been a smooth road?
California legalization certainly hasn’t been smooth, which is understandable. We had a 20 year $3B medical market, which had to adjust to new laws, licenses, people, and ways of working. I started the company in early 2017, and we have literally seen the industry built from the ground up over the last three years. And of course, cannabis still carries the stigma perpetuated by 80+ years of prohibition and criminalization, even in LA.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Besito – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
The besito team is so excited to introduce our new pre-rolls to the world. Smoking a J is the team’s favorite way to consume, so there’s a lot of thought and passion behind our new beauties. Our mini joints are the perfect single-serving and come in a convenient to-go tin, which makes it super easy to safely smoke with friends. For a longer smoke sesh, we have our single gram pre-rolls. All are made with whole-flower grown in NorCal, with carefully selected strains to match all occasions and moods. Beyond good, trustworthy weed, we have a commitment to reinvest profits from all sales to those most affected by the War on Drugs. This is an ethos we carry in every decision we make as a brand to support and uplift the communities that helped build this legal, regulated industry.
Who else deserves credit – have you had mentors, supporters, cheerleaders, advocates, clients or teammates that have played a big role in your success or the success of the business? If so – who are they and what role did they plan / how did they help.
Absolutely takes a village! I’m so grateful above all for the besito team and their dedication to our mission and brand. I believe your brand is your product is your culture is your team, and so I love that the besito brand authentically reflects who we are and how we love to consume cannabis. My first hire was Ely Kim, our incredible Creative Director who brings our brand and products to life. We are also lucky to have awesome investors like Emily Paxhia and advisors like Tahira Rehmatullah who are some of the leaders in the legal cannabis world.
Who are five local entrepreneurs, professionals or creatives that you know and admire? (name, what do you love about them, where we can find more about them?)
I love connecting with other women founders in LA to share insights, build networks, and of course keep each other sane. Kimberly Dillon is a plant guru and now we can all benefit from her Frigg CBD products. Sara Cullen makes the yummiest whole food vitamins at Gem. You need to check out the comfortable and cute dresses Dre Taylor has designed over at Rec Room. Alix Peabody is bringing a much needed woman’s point of view to the alcohol industry through her delicious wines at Bev. Dorian Morris’s Undefined Beauty CBD Glow products give your face that final dewy look. Also if you don’t know Harper Wilde, Jenna Kerner and Jane Fischer have made the best no BS bras.
Pricing:
- Besito Mini Joints (3.5 g – 10 pack), available in Sativa, Hybrid, and Indica – $40.00
- Besito 1g Pre-rolls, available in Sativa, Hybrid, and Indica – $12.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shop.besito.la/
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/besito.la/
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