Dazed Cannabis currently operates four dispensaries across Massachusetts and New York: their flagship Holyoke location (2021), Union Square NYC (2023), Monson Massachusetts (2024), and Syracuse New York (2025). Each location offers a comprehensive selection of cannabis products including flower, pre-rolls, edibles, concentrates, vapes, accessories, and exclusive Dazed-branded merchandise.Their product portfolio features premium brands like Grassroots, Runtz, STAY MELO (Carmelo Anthony's brand), Hudson Cannabis, The Botanist, Kiva, Wana, and many others, ensuring customers have access to top-tier cannabis products across all categories. What sets Dazed apart is their "party destination" approach - gone are traditional security guards, fluorescent lighting, and sterile medical aesthetics. Instead, customers experience vibrant pink decor, energetic budtenders, curated playlists, and an atmosphere that feels celebratory rather than clinical.All products are formulated, packaged, and distributed in-house, ensuring quality control and customer satisfaction. Each dispensary maintains the same high-energy vibe while adapting to local community needs, creating spaces where cannabis shopping feels like a social experience rather than a transaction.
Founded in 2021 by Keshawn Warner, Rich Rainone, and Chris Vianello, Dazed Cannabis began as a bold vision to revolutionize cannabis retail in Holyoke, Massachusetts. The story is deeply rooted in resilience and justice - co-founder Keshawn Warner, a Harlem native and Norfolk State University computer science graduate, was arrested in 2008 for attempting to buy cannabis during a sting operation, which ironically later qualified him for New York's CAURD program that prioritizes justice-impacted individuals.Rich Rainone brings two decades of entrepreneurial experience and eight years of U.S. Marine Corps service, while the trio has built something unprecedented in cannabis retail. Since launching in Holyoke in 2021, Dazed has expanded to Union Square NYC in 2023, Monson Massachusetts in 2024, and Syracuse New York in 2025. With ambitious plans for over 30 retail locations across the United States, Dazed has transformed from a single dispensary into one of the fastest-growing cannabis retail brands in the country. Their journey represents more than business success - it's about creating opportunities, building community, and proving that cannabis retail can be both profitable and purposeful.
Dazed Cannabis' mission is to offer a curated selection of the finest cannabis products in an uplifting and educational environment centered on community. They transcend the typical dispensary experience by creating a nostalgic, judgment-free zone centered on community, education, safe consumption, and good vibes.Their commitment extends beyond retail - they focus on elevating customer experience through quality products, friendly staff, and actively helping the communities that host their stores. As a Black and veteran-owned business, they champion social equity in the cannabis industry, leveling the playing field and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities. Their philosophy centers on cannabis as a community connector - "Cannabis is one of the few things you purchase to share," fostering the communal spirit reminiscent of early cannabis culture built on friendships, laughter, and love. Dazed is committed to transparency, innovation, and passion while maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance.
At Calm Effect, we're genuinely impressed by Dazed's ability to completely reimagine what a dispensary experience can be. While most dispensaries still feel clinical and intimidating, Dazed creates an atmosphere where customers actually want to hang out - think pink carpets, live DJs, and staff who are genuinely excited to help you find the perfect product.Their rapid expansion from one location in 2021 to four thriving dispensaries across two states proves they've cracked the code on what cannabis consumers really want. What really sets them apart for deal-seekers is their commitment to carrying premium brands while maintaining that welcoming, party-like atmosphere that makes shopping feel fun rather than transactional. Their "hyper-local" hiring approach and community involvement shows they're not just another corporate cannabis chain - they genuinely care about the neighborhoods they serve. For customers looking for great deals in a space that doesn't take itself too seriously, Dazed delivers every time.