X
Leaf Nation Logo

Happy Trees in Washington

The fun and arcane atmosphere is immediately evident when you’re greeted by a stoned, wooden viking in the foyer.

ROOTS

After opening T-Town Alternative Medicine in Tacoma in 2010 and hitting numerous challenges along the ‘high way’ to this current iteration, owner Paul Brice will tell you that success in the Cannabis industry does not come without its bumps and bruises. But his earned wisdom shines like a beaming star when flowing with statements like – “It ain’t about vindication, but reparation” – showing deep respect for the plant which has been a glowing factor en route to becoming one of the only true equity-owned shops in the state. 

CARVING OPPORTUNITY

In those medical days of yesteryear, Paul recognized that a lot of folks were coming from Central Washington to get their meds, so in 2014, he transitioned to opening Greener Frontier – the first medical shop in Cle Elum. Meeting resistance at first wasn’t a surprise, but when the locals told him he was an eminent danger to Cle Elum and a sting operation ensued, it was time to prove himself in court. The outcome became a victorious reign and the opening of this conifer of happiness on 4/20 in 2017.

PLAYFUL AND FUNKY

Not your average Cannabis shop, the fun, and arcane atmosphere is immediately evident when you’re greeted by a stoned, wooden Viking in the foyer. Tchotchkes and pop culture wall art blend with merriment and delight, creating a fun forest home nestled in the woods on Gnome Alley. Cherry blossoms topped with a lotus light burst through wood floors providing indoor forest therapy and a sense of whimsical spring at any time of year. And the Glass Room is an annex of solitude with cabinets of gorgeous smoking devices that will get you lit like sprinkled fairy dust. Coming this summer, get ready for a smoothie shack outside that will also be serving up bud-shaped pizzas!


TREE HUGGERS

These are the ones who make Cannabis sing, dedicated to each aspect of uniqueness that makes the plant so special. Rockin’ the checkered tights with a Fleek Leaf hoodie, you’ll meet Celena who loves to express herself artistically with her doodling descriptions on the HAPPY BOARD, where you’ll find the top 20 products in the shop. Cheryl is a fifth generation Cle Elum local who gains sincere happiness from getting paid to do something controversial in such a conservative town. You’ll also meet Phil, a SoCal transplant who wears a Gabriel Cannabis shirt and looooves their Chocolope. And then there’s Jeremy who has been with Paul Brice for ten years, which in the opinion of The Leaf, quantifies his as a true consigliere.

Photos by @NWLeaf

About Mike Ricker

The first time Ricker smoked weed was at a Santana concert at the age of 12. He then followed in his footsteps as an award-winning radio personality who became notorious for offering a stage for bong toking listeners in 9 different markets over 20 years. In 2016, the Cannabis industry came calling and the rest is history.

This article was originally published in the April 2021 issue of Northwest Leaf.

View our archive on issuu.

Are you 21 or older? This website requires you to be 21 years of age or older. Please verify your age to view the content, or click "Exit" to leave.