Dashawn Watkins (@dashawnsw) is a 27-year-old aspiring model, budtender, and one of the nicest people you will ever meet. The vibes Dashawn brings to the dispensary are comforting and friendly while having a truckload of Cannabis knowledge tucked away for his customers. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Dashawn without a smile on his face in the many times I’ve been to The Living Room. Constantly researching Cannabis in print and online is how he stays on top of the latest and greatest trends and products in Cannabis. Be sure to say hey to Dashawn and ask what pair of socks he’s struttin’ when you stop by The Living Room!
How did you get into modeling?
In 9th grade, Drake and Rihanna came out with a music video for the song “Take Care.” I was in a computer class, and when I looked at all of the photos they took to promote the music video, all of the fashion and editing sparked my interest. From then on, my interest has grown and I’ve expanded my fashion horizons a lot.
What makes you a Cannabis professional?
Prior to working in the industry, I was doing my own personal research. I used to go to California all the time, and I would learn new things from people in dispensaries as well as a grow in Humboldt County. Once I had some basic Cannabis knowledge, I had this burning need to expand on what I had learned. I used the internet, Reddit specifically, for first-hand Cannabis knowledge from real people in the community. I also try to read a ton of books to make sure I stay up to date.
Tell me about your sock collection!
I started about two years ago, but I’ve been collecting clothing for a long time before that. When I first started working here, my coworkers Blaire and Megan had peeped a particular way when I was showing my socks off with my outfit, and that really sparked my attention toward socks more. I [probably] have a different pair of socks for every day of the year. It’s actually quite insane. On my Instagram page, I have Reels where you can see what socks I’m wearing almost every day. I don’t know what made me so inspired by socks. I feel like it’s a very underappreciated part of outfits.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
I love people. The fact that every single day I deal with people gives me a little bit more of a push and I genuinely love it. Spreading joy is really important to me and the best way to do that is by interacting with people and being myself.
If the world were ending tomorrow, what would you do today?
Gather everything, I believe I would need to prepare for an end-of-the-world scenario. I would also gather my loved ones and (laughing) look for shelter.
What do you think about Cannabis potentially being reclassified by the DEA?
I think it is very overdue, and I’m happy they are moving in that direction. Hopefully, a lot of people who have been persecuted for it in the past can get some justice and repercussions for the time they spent behind bars and in the system. I see a brighter future for Cannabis and more leniency and acceptance from people around the country.
