VUE Long Island

VUE Long Island Fall 2024

The Digest | New Jersey Magazine

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"Cannabis is a functioning thing. It can get you euphoric and creative and energetic," explained co- founder Jay Grossman. e story began long before the Farmingdale, Long Island dispensary opened in January 2023. Lepore was in business and finance when his wife introduced him to an acquaintance in the nutraceutical space. From there, Lepore moved towards pharmaceuticals and utilizing cannabis. With twelve years in the field, the end result was simply a matter of time. "I was waiting for New York to legalize marijuana and make it recreational," said Lepore. Lepore realized that sharing his knowledge would become a huge component of his success. "When I finally did qualify for a dispensary, everybody was telling me, 'you can actually educate people and break the negative stigma instead of just selling a product," Lepore remembered. His committed direction and passion for his product has an obvious impact on everyone he comes into contact with. "Paul has created an environment that even our bud-tenders are just laser focused on learning the latest brands, and what makes Happy Days so special is the enthusiasm trickles down to the guests," adds Grossman. Designed by award-winning interior designer Vanessa DeLeon, the 5,300 square foot space leaves plenty of room, can serve about 2,000 customers a day, and customers never have to wait long for an interaction that falls right in line with the typical Long Islander, according to Lepore. "We are inherently impatient if we have somewhere to be, but also don't like to be rushed," joked the entrepreneur. Cannabis is a functioning thing. It can get you euphoric and creative and energetic. VUENJ.COM 39

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