The Struggle and Success of Budtending in Brooklyn
As I stepped into By Any Other Name (BAON) in Clinton Hill, I was immediately struck by the vibrant energy of the neighborhood. This is where rap legend Biggie grew up, and his presence is still felt through the street art and annual block parties. But today, I wasn’t here to pay homage to Biggie, I was here to experience budtending from the inside.
My first lesson? Your feet will be killing you before your shift is even halfway done. But the conversations and connections made with customers make it all worth it.
At BAON, it’s not just about knowing the menu and products, it’s about truly listening to people, asking the right questions, and guiding them to the perfect fit. And that’s exactly what the owner, Ted Crawford, and his team do with every customer that walks through the door.
But what sets BAON apart from other dispensaries in NYC is their dedication to carrying micro-grow boutique products that are rarely seen in the city. And it’s not just about the products, it’s about the community and the people behind them.
Ted Crawford, a Brooklyn native, is not only the owner of BAON, but also a successful businessman and entrepreneur. He knows the importance of uplifting and supporting the neighborhood, and BAON is just one piece of the puzzle.
But Ted’s story is even more inspiring. He was arrested over 30 years ago for a marijuana-related offense, but was lucky enough to have a lawyer who fought for him and helped him avoid jail time. Now, he is using his success to give back to the community and promote positive change.
As I donned my branded apron and took in the sleek and modern interior of the dispensary, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the micro-grow products. BAON proudly stocks real New York micro-grows, including Farm 2 Hand (Fyre brand), a legacy grower with a micro license in the Bronx.
But the name of the dispensary, By Any Other Name, holds a deeper meaning. It represents the complex history of cannabis within the black community and the need for reparations and wealth redistribution. It’s a story within a story, and it’s clear that BAON is more than just a dispensary, it’s a symbol of progress and change.
So next time you’re in Clinton Hill, make sure to stop by BAON and experience the true essence of budtending in Brooklyn. Your feet may hurt, but the conversations and connections will make it all worth it.
