Ash & Ember
Sister-owned Maryland dispensary lighting the way with education and compassion.
- Sold in
- 1 state
- States
- CA
Where to find Ash & Ember
Our story
ASH+EMBER was founded by sisters Ashley Colen and Paige Colen, who grew up on a farm near Rock Hall on Maryland's Eastern Shore. After spending time in California and recognizing that cannabis legalization was moving eastward, the sisters returned home with a vision to bring medical cannabis to their community.The journey wasn't easy. After applying for their license through the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission in 2016, they faced significant pushback from Queen Anne's County Commissioners. Through persistence and advocacy, they successfully partnered with the town of Centreville and opened their doors on Valentine's Day 2018, becoming the first legal medical cannabis dispensary on Maryland's Mid-Shore.The dispensary quickly grew to serve over 5,000 registered patients, earning recommendations from local medical providers. Beyond retail, the Colen sisters also hold a U.S. patent for the first 3D-printed delivery device for medical cannabis, showcasing their innovative spirit. When Maryland transitioned to adult-use sales in July 2023, ASH+EMBER expanded to serve both medical patients and recreational consumers while maintaining their commitment to education and quality care.
About
ASH+EMBER operates a single dispensary location in Centreville, Maryland, at 202 Coursevall Drive, where they serve both medical patients and adult-use customers seven days a week. The family-run business, which Ashley Colen affectionately calls a "mom-and-mom shop," maintains a warm, approachable atmosphere that sets it apart from larger corporate chains.The dispensary offers approximately 60 different cannabis strains from Maryland's top growers, carefully curated to address various therapeutic needs. Their product selection includes premium cannabis flower, vape cartridges, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, capsules, CBD products, and topicals. ASH+EMBER provides multiple shopping options including their in-store showroom experience, quick pickup service, and medical delivery for orders over $100.The team includes expertly trained patient advisors, a clinical director, and a pharmacist on staff as required by Maryland state law. Staff members receive rigorous training on different strains and their effects, enabling them to recommend alternatives based on how patients want to feel rather than just specific product names. This personalized approach ensures customers find the right products for their individual needs.
Mission
ASH+EMBER's core mission is to "globally modernize the perception of cannabis for the greater good." With their motto "Shake the Stigma," the dispensary works to educate the community about the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and destigmatize its use.The team is committed to providing dedicated care and creating custom cannabis regimens tailored to each customer's unique needs and conditions. They prioritize education, helping customers understand the most effective strains and products for safe and effective use. Beyond treating existing conditions, ASH+EMBER takes a holistic approach by offering wellness information about nutrition, sleep, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that contribute to overall health.The dispensary is dedicated to maintaining a safe, calm environment where customers can explore cannabis products with confidence and support. Their commitment extends to making cannabis accessible and approachable for everyone, whether they're experienced users or first-time customers.