Consuming cannabis often includes a social function and context. For example, we pass joints and bongs among friends because of culture and tradition. People gather together to enjoy weed… and then the inevitable munchies.
A while back, Meg Coss, the editor of Motif sent me a link to the website for High Society. I found a fascinating amount of material on their website and sent a query through the Contact Us portal on their website. I was thrilled that Bri Duffy, co-founder of High Society, responded with enthusiasm. Her responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Lenny Brennan (Motif): What is the mission of High Society RI LLC?
Bri Duffy: Our mission is to create unique cannabis consumption experiences that foster a sense of community, safety, and acceptance. We are dedicated to empowering individuals affected by the war on drugs by providing meaningful opportunities within the cannabis industry, and promoting positivity and engagement for all.
LB: What inspired you and DJ Macomb to found High Society?
BD: Our inspiration came from our shared enjoyment of cannabis as a social activity. We noticed a significant lack of safe, public spaces where we could gather with friends for this purpose. While there are numerous venues for alcohol consumption, there were virtually no options for cannabis enthusiasts like us. We wanted to create a welcoming environment that caters to the needs of our community, and provides a safe and enjoyable space for cannabis consumption.
LB: Who are the members of High Society?
BD: High Society boasts an impressive membership of over 1,000 individuals within the Rhode Island area. Our members come from all different walks of life, bringing a rich diversity of backgrounds and perspectives. This unique blend of people is what makes our community so vibrant and inclusive, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued.
LB: Can you explain what happens at High Society’s Pop-up Social Events?
BD: Pop-up social club events are held in local bars and restaurants throughout Rhode Island, serving multiple meaningful purposes. Firstly, these events allow us to give back to the local bars and restaurants we’ve collaborated with over the years, drawing on our backgrounds as bartenders, servers, and kitchen staff. As many establishments are still recovering from the impact of COVID, hosting events during off-hours helps generate additional income for these cherished community hubs. Created with a lot of creativity, our pop-ups set the standard for what a cannabis event should be, and we pride ourselves on making each one unique and memorable.
We strive to support local businesses and create affordable events that unite street culture with the legal market. As cannabis culture becomes more regulated, society risks losing the traditional passions and spirit of cannabis consumers. Our goal is to keep that spark alive by blending the authenticity of street culture with the evolving legal landscape.
LB: What is High Society Radio?
BD: High Society Radio is led by DJ Nook, a true OG in the scene. It’s our platform to showcase local hip-hop and R&B talent, helping to keep street culture alive in today’s legal market. Accessible to anyone with an internet connection, High Society Radio also serves as a valuable advertising space for our local cultivator friends and dispensaries. We have a unique group of artists known as the High Society Playaz — local rappers and singers who are regularly featured on the station. Additionally, we host a monthly live show called “Bluntz & Barz” which highlights the musical talent within our cannabis community.
LB: What is High Society’s Experiential Marketing about?
BD: The High Society team brings an impressive 20 years of combined experience in the experiential marketing sector. This expertise allows us to effectively connect retailers with their consumers through engaging and impactful events. Our experiential marketing initiatives not only drive new business but also give back to underserved communities, fostering meaningful partnerships that lead to sustained sales growth.
LB: What would you like Motif readers to know about High Society RI?
BD: High Society was born from the passion of stoners, for stoners. Our mission is rooted in a deep love for cannabis and a commitment to normalizing public consumption. We believe in creating spaces where cannabis enthusiasts can come together, feel accepted, and enjoy the plant they love without stigma or judgment. High Society is more than just a brand; it’s a movement dedicated to celebrating cannabis culture and advocating for its acceptance in society.
LB: I see on your website that you host/organize events in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Are there wrinkles in cannabis law between the two states that you must navigate?
BD: Navigating Massachusetts as a second home to Rhode Island has indeed presented its challenges. With a plethora of cultivation centers, brands, and dispensaries, the opportunities seem almost endless. However, the structural differences in how events can be executed pose unique challenges, especially in terms of consumption. Massachusetts’ regulatory landscape makes it more difficult to operate any type of consumption event compared to Rhode Island. Despite these challenges, the wealth of opportunities in Massachusetts fuels our determination to innovate and find ways to bridge the gap, ensuring that High Society remains a prominent presence in both states.
LB: Thanks a million Bri for your insightful and informative responses.
Motif readers, check out High Society RI at highsocietyri.com for info on upcoming events, pop up socials, and more.
