KALAMAZOO, Mich. — A brand new marijuana business is the first of its kind in West Michigan. Customers can consume marijuana where they buy it.
Only Alien Cannabis Company in Kalamazoo is already unique in its own right, being the first consumption lounge on this side of the state. But it's the ability to go from seed to smoke that makes it unique to the entire state.
Marty Webber and Royal Laraway had the idea for Only Alien six years ago. Along the way, they added George Webber and Gabe Barham to the team and finally got the store open earlier this month.
"It's definitely a good feeling to see people in the doors and taking advantage of it," said Barham.
Taking advantage of what is the only place of its kind in Michigan, allowing both marijuana growing and consumption on site.
"It's gonna be all in-house," said George Webber. "We're gonna be producing it here, processing, selling and then you can go right over to the lounge and enjoy it there."
The group of owners said having a public place where customers can smoke is something many have asked for since recreational weed was legalized in 2018.
"Try out different products, hang out with like-minded people and be in a safe place," said Barham.
And being able to grow on-site both gives the business more control over its own product and puts the customer at ease that what they're getting is the best it can be.
"It allows us to really focus on quality and just giving the customer a good experience," says Laraway. "They'll be able to come in, see our mother plants, you know, know what they're getting."
Only Alien is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
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