Dating is tricky enough, so how do you unload on your new love interest your love for cannabis. The first time they find out about your relationship with cannabis should not be as you move in and unpack a 2-foot bong. Between the stigma of being a stoner and the legality issues of Mary Jane’s flowers, bringing up your involvement with cannabis can be a tricky one when you first start dating. So, how do you do dating and cannabis?

SPARK THE CONVERSATION

When I first began dating my boyfriend, the conversation was really easy! However, our first date included a bong followed by comical memes. For some people, it’s not that easy. You may have found a great spark with someone, but you’re not so sure about sparking your lighter around them yet.

Strike up the conversation through a thought-provoking article about cannabis legalization. It’s a great ice-breaker to show that you care about more than just “getting high.” If that isn’t your style, it’s always best to just ask point blank. This can be a first date question or a fifth date question but it’s one that should be brought up before things get too serious.

IT'S NOT 4:20, BUT IS IT THE 'RIGHT' TIME?

Just how you talk about your favorite color, your dog, and your childhood home, if you are passionate about cannabis, talk about it! If you’re an everyday smoker they are going to find out eventually so you might as well bring it up as soon as you can. You never know, you may find out they are just as passionate about it as you are. The right time is your time, and when you feel comfortable having that conversation.

THEY'RE ANTI-CANNABIS

It’s like your political party. You can be a Democrat and date a Republican. You may have some tiffs about politics but it doesn’t mean you can’t respect your partner's opinion. Dating someone who is completely against cannabis may not be the best idea if you are very passionate, but dating someone who doesn’t participate can be very successful.

If your partner does not enjoy cannabis or is against legalization, take a step back to understand why they believe that. For some, cannabis is lumped in with all other drugs and that’s something you shouldn’t take offense to. Just be willing to hear them out and live a life that kills the stigma.

Explain your side. Tell your partner why you enjoy cannabis. If they are strongly against it, then maybe the relationship isn’t a good fit. Cannabis use is just another factor to consider when you are looking for a potential partner.

THEY LOVE IT!  ROLL ONE UP!

My preferred 2nd or 3rd date involves an outdoor activity and a joint. It’s a great way to get to know someone. They always say you make the best friends in smoking circles. If you have met a fellow cannabis lover, start your new romance right with a first bowl instead of a first drink. With online dating, we’ve become more prone to putting ourselves out there. Using descriptions like “420-friendly” in your dating profile is a good way to meet other fellow cannabis lovers.

Let’s say you have an amazing date and they love cannabis as well. So why not share your new found common interest and get to know each other? Make a day of it. In legal states, take a trip to a dispensary together, get a joint, go on a hike, and be willing to be open and vulnerable.

Cannabis and dating shouldn’t be a tricky thing. With the rise in popularity, you may be surprised to find out that your date across the table loves it just as much as you do. Cannabis can be a great way to take the edge off and get to know each other. It’s wise to start conversations about cannabis early on if it’s important to you. You may be surprised who sets a spark in you and not just your lighter.