At the recent Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, Dreka Gates, founder of Love’s Harvest, shared insights into the significant connections formed at the event.

“I’ve just met five people right off the bat that I know we’re going to co-create and do some amazing things together,” Gates said, highlighting the conference’s role as a catalyst for meaningful industry relationships.

A Day in the Life at Love’s Harvest 

Gates, who was previously known for managing her husband Kevin Gates’s music career, delved into the daily operations of her cannabis business.

“It’s really just rewarding for me to see it from start to finish,” she said, emphasizing the satisfaction derived from customers’ positive reactions in the dispensary. Gates enjoys overseeing the process from the initial plant stages to the final consumer interaction.

Future Plans and Expansion 

Looking ahead, Gates revealed plans for Love’s Harvest to become a vertically integrated operation within the next year. She is particularly excited about a forthcoming product line that will incorporate other beneficial plants and herbs with cannabis. “I am super happy about that,” Gates said, indicating her commitment to comprehensively enhancing wellness.

The Transformative Impact of Cannabis

Gates spoke passionately about the transformative potential of cannabis, particularly in promoting wellness and alleviating chronic pain through various forms, such as topicals and tinctures.

“It’s about Love and wellness for everyone,” Gates said aiming to educate and redefine the public’s perception of cannabis users, moving beyond stigmatized stereotypes.

Consumer Trends 

Discussing current trends, Gates noted a growing consumer preference for food-inspired cannabis strains and rapid-release products in Mississippi.

“People want it to be, like the rapid release and the fast-acting that has been becoming very popular,” she observed, reflecting on the evolving demands of consumers seeking immediate effects from their cannabis products.

Her main panel discussion was a highlight for Gates, who appreciated the opportunity to interact with the audience and other panelists.

“It was amazing because we connected with the audience. Afterward, they all approached us and wanted to communicate with us,” Gates shared, stressing the value of industry events in fostering community and advancing understanding within the cannabis world.

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Grow Your Cannabis business and raise capital at Benzinga's New Jersey Market Spotlight on June 17. Network with key industry players, hear from the top operators, and close deals that will shape the future. Act now— spots are filling fast. Get your tickets here.

Photo: Paul Smith, FeatureFlash, Shutterstock