Imagine this: a space where wellness meets community, where education around cannabis is prioritized, and where cultural experiences are always on tap. That's the vision brothers Rodney and Brandon Carter brought to life with TRENDS, Long Island City's first Black-owned dispensary.
More than just a dispensary, TRENDS - which stands for "The Real Experience Needs Different Stories" - is a sprawling 6,000 square foot space dedicated to changing the narrative around cannabis. It's a place where customers can shop for high-quality products, learn from knowledgeable staff, and connect with their community in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Rooted in Community, Driven by Passion
For Rodney and Brandon, opening TRENDS in Long Island City wasn't just a business decision, it was personal. Having grown up in Queens, they felt a deep connection to the neighborhood and wanted to create a space that reflected its diversity and vibrancy.
The journey to opening TRENDS was not without its challenges. When initial investors backed out at the eleventh hour, Rodney and Brandon dug deep, drawing strength from their father's experience with cannabis prohibition and their own entrepreneurial spirit. They took on the licensing process themselves, fueled by their belief in their vision and their commitment to their community.
More Than Just a Dispensary: A Holistic Experience
TRENDS goes above and beyond the typical dispensary experience. With a diverse range of cannabis products, a focus on wellness and education, and an onsite event space and art gallery, TRENDS is a true community hub.
Cultivating Wellness and Knowledge
Rodney, with his background in health and wellness, was passionate about incorporating a holistic approach into TRENDS.
"Being that my background is in health and wellness — I run a fitness gym in Harlem — we definitely wanted to focus on holistic wellness in our store as well, in addition to having specialty and novelty items,” shared Rodney. “We like to do things differently.”
A Space for Connection and Culture
Beyond cannabis, TRENDS is a space for connection and creativity. The onsite event space hosts a variety of gatherings, from comedy shows and fashion shows to movie nights and elevated yoga classes.
"We intend to hold all types of events, anywhere from comedy shows to fashion shows, to movie nights, elevated yoga. We’re looking to do tea parties, a few dinner parties, our art gallery,” explained Rodney.
Building Community Through Shared Experiences
For Rodney and Brandon, TRENDS is a platform to spark meaningful conversations around cannabis, challenge stigmas, and create a more inclusive and equitable industry.
"We’re a cultural hub community and that’s the difference between a real lifestyle brand that not only sells cannabis, but we also sell health and wellness. We also sell knowledge and information through our podcast Trends and Friends,” shared Rodney. “We also sell swag, we have some amazing merch. Our merch could stand alone to be a fashion line in itself.”
TRENDS isn't just a dispensary, it's a testament to the power of community, the importance of representation, and the potential of cannabis to bring people together. It's a place where everyone is welcome to explore, learn, and connect.