Drew Stevens landed the job at Western Bud in Burlington, Washington, just after turning 21. It was his first sales position, and though nerves accompanied the new role, they quickly melted away as he got to know the team. The tight-knit group of coworkers didn’t just make the job enjoyable — they became friends and adventure partners. In his first year, Stevens was organizing kayak outings, paddleboarding trips, hikes and ski weekends across the state. The camaraderie was instant, and the bond they formed turned the dispensary into a second home.
Before Western Bud, Stevens had been a casual Cannabis user. College in Alaska introduced him to the social side of Cannabis culture, where he found it was a great way to connect with people. Returning to Washington, he saw budtending as the perfect blend of his love for Cannabis and his passion for meaningful conversation. At Western Bud, he not only deepened his knowledge but also explored the medicinal side of the plant with newfound appreciation.
As a budtender, Stevens takes pride in helping customers find the right product, often recommending favorites like Mt. Baker Homegrown’s Sin N Juice — “like fruity red wine” — or Green Lion’s GMO, which left an unforgettable scent lingering in his room. Dewey Botanicals’ Glitter Party even enhanced a music festival experience at Beyond Wonderland. While Stevens leans toward energizing sativa strains to complement his active lifestyle, he keeps indicas on hand for relaxation.
Outside of work, Stevens is constantly on the move — cruising on his electric skateboard, paddling lakes, shredding the slopes at Mount Baker or biking trails at Little Mountain and Galbraith. His dedication is contagious and you feel it when you’re around him. For Drew Stevens, the Cannabis industry isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle, and it’s one he’s proud to live.
Follow him on Instagram: @ichanter
