On May 26th, uSpark had the honor of attending the inaugural Annual Garden Party—a women-only event designed to amplify, connect, educate, and empower females in the cannabis industry. This unique gathering brought together professional businesswomen from across California for a full day of education, relaxation, and inspiration.
A Warm Welcome
Upon arrival, attendees were greeted with warm smiles and vibrant energy from vendors and fellow guests. The event kicked off with goodie bags from Cookies and Dr. Greenthumb, a female-owned dispensary in Fresno, CA. The delightful start set the tone for a day filled with connection, fun, and education.
Throughout the day, guests enjoyed a variety of unique experiences. Refreshing infused lemonade and delectable infused cookies were available, alongside a beautiful display of healthy snacks. Attendees also had the opportunity to partake in a soothing sound bath, accompanied by the nurturing sounds of a nearby river.
Enlightening Discussions
The highlight of the event was the panel of women leaders in the cannabis industry. Among them was the influential @wholetmebeamom, known for her work in reducing the stigma around cannabis consumption, particularly for mothers. Attendees also heard from the author of The Successful Canna-Prenuer, a seasoned entrepreneur and business consultant, who shared invaluable insights on building a compliant cannabis business in an increasingly legalized landscape.
The Garden Party highlighted the vast opportunities within the cannabis industry, encouraging businesswomen to pursue their passions. Attendees were educated on the realities of the legal cannabis industry, including important topics such as funding. In 2016, male entrepreneurs received over $58 billion in capital funding, while female entrepreneurs received only $1.46 billion—approximately 2.5% of the total.
The Evolution and Future of Cannabis
The medicinal use of cannabis dates back to as early as 2727 B.C.E. in China, where early civilizations documented its use for ailments such as rheumatism, gout, malaria, pain relief, and childbirth. Over time, its various medical usage spread from Eastern to Western regions, transforming countless lives. It’s important to notice the heavy impact women have had in the usage and distribution of cannabis throughout history. According to Forbes The number of women aged 25 to 54 years old in the U.S. [who said they used cannabis in the last year] hit a historic high of 77.8%.
As the cannabis industry evolves, new businesses continue to emerge, and legalization efforts expand across more states and countries. The principles of compassion, advocacy, and innovation championed by the women at the Garden Party remain central to the industry's development. Honoring these trailblazers reminds us of the power of individual voices and actions in driving change. Their contributions have laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable cannabis industry, inspiring other women and future generations to continue the fight for recognition, legalization, and innovation.
An Enchanting Venue
The event was held just a 35-minute drive from Moon Valley Creek Ranch, a semi off-grid glamping experience and wedding venue nestled in Sequoia National Forest. The picturesque setting added to the enchantment of the day, making it an unforgettable experience. Moon Valley Creek Ranch is located along Mill Creek alongside Bald Mountain. To stay updated on future events, follow @moonvalleycreekranch.
