Meet our new friend, Ashton Johnson. Not only does she have over a decade of experience in the Cannabis space, but her focus on product knowledge and client care is also absolutely top notch.
Her journey has led to many roles in the industry. Before budtending, she held many successful positions with manufacturers, from typical production work all the way up to sales and marketing leadership. This experience provided a well-rounded education on the plant and its benefits and helped develop her palate. We all enjoy the buzz associated with Cannabis, as does Ashton, but her deep dive into the medical benefits of consumption has developed into a force to be reckoned with.
Located just off Interstate 5, Sweet Releaf is west of Burlington on State Route 20. It is a Skagit Valley favorite that served as a local watering hole called The Shamrock for decades. The store is the last stop for most tourists and locals headed out to the San Juan Islands.
Manager Derrick Blake and owner Matthew Plemmons run a very clean shop that they keep stocked with well-known favorites and some of the greatest craft Cannabis brands in the state. With an unmistakable focus on their clientele, the displays are streamlined and far from crowded.
The atmosphere is inviting, relaxing and warm. It is because of this vibe that Ashton, a Skagit Valley local, chooses to budtend here and here alone. Derrick said he’d waited for years to find a position for Ashton (they go way back), and he knew her skills were seriously on point. Fast-forward two years, and Ashton is regarded as a top employee. Listening to clients and helping them procure the right strains and consumption methods based on personal needs is her main focus.
“I just love our customers, from the regular locals to the people coming to enjoy Skagit Valley for the first time,” Ashton said. “It’s more than just the THC; other cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, CBD and CBC can make such a difference in quality of life.”
You can tell this mantra goes deep with Ashton and the whole team at Sweet Releaf. She is constantly educating herself on the latest products and trends to keep her clients up to date and pass on the knowledge.
So, if you’re in Skagit Valley or on your way to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal, stop and stock up your stash and say hi to Ashton and the team!
Ashton’s favorites:
- Flower: Maui Wowie by Lifestyle Cannabis Co.
- Concentrate: Cleo by Viking Cannabis
- Edible: Mango Passion Gummies by Sinners & Saints
- Preroll: Forum Cut Cookies by Emerald Mountain
- Vape: Shark Shock Live Resin by New Standard
