Let’s face it: social media platforms are *not* cannabis-friendly. You’re just out here trying to run a legit dispensary, and they’re acting like you’re slinging something illegal out of your trunk. It’s frustrating. It’s ridiculous.
And it’s the game we’ve got to play. But don’t worry, we’ve got a simple, compliant solution that works: a secondary website.
Most social platforms don’t allow direct links to cannabis-related content because they claim it violates their policies. Even if you’re following the law in your state, you’re still guilty in the eyes of Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
The workaround? A secondary, squeaky-clean website that doesn’t scream “I sell cannabis!” This site will act as your middleman, giving potential customers a way to view your daily deals without triggering social media alarms.
Here’s the golden rule: Keep it clean. And by clean, we mean no cannabis-related words, imagery, or hints.
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing. Don’t use the word “cannabis” or any of its synonyms in your domain name, website copy, branding, or even your logo. Words like “dispensary” and “THC” are also no-go zones.
Your website should look like it could belong to literally any type of business. Instead of “GreenLeafCannabis.com,” go for something like “GreenLeafGoods.com.” See the difference? Vague, generic, and exactly what you need to fly under the radar.
No photos of buds, no close-ups of edibles, no vape clouds. Your secondary website should look so innocent it could be the homepage for a wellness retreat or a smoothie bar.
Use imagery that communicates professionalism without hinting at cannabis.
Once your secondary website is live, don’t forget the money-making button of all buttons: the “Order Now” button.
This should link directly to your dispensary’s actual menu so potential customers can browse and order right away. You’re compliant, but you’re not making it hard for people to give you their money.
Nothing says “We’re legit” like real customer feedback. Add a few glowing Google reviews to your secondary site to establish trust with new visitors.
A potential customer who’s unsure about clicking through to your menu will feel way more confident seeing a 5-star review like, “Best products and friendly staff—I’m never going anywhere else!
This one’s tricky but essential. Your copy should focus on community, health, or wellness—without directly referencing cannabis. For example, instead of saying, “We offer premium cannabis products,” try something like, “Explore our curated selection of goods designed to enhance your daily routine.”
Once your secondary site is live, use it exclusively for your social media links. Every time someone clicks, they’ll land on this neutral page, which can then direct them to your main dispensary site (where all the fun stuff lives).
Think of it as a digital decoy: it’s clean, it’s safe, and it keeps you in compliance with social media’s puritanical policies.
With this secondary website, you can run Paid Google Ads—a little industry secret most dispensaries don’t even know about. Get in front of the right people, boost your visibility, and turn clicks into customers. Easy ROI, no BS.
We know, it’s annoying to jump through all these hoops. But staying compliant on social media is crucial for growing your dispensary without interruptions.
A secondary website isn’t just a smart workaround—it’s a necessary move in a world where cannabis businesses are unfairly targeted.
So, what are you waiting for? Get that secondary site up and running. Add the “Order Now” button. Showcase your Google reviews.
Play the game—and win it. Social media platforms might be out to harsh your vibe, but with this strategy, your business can thrive.