Historic Milestone for Manhattan’s Cannabis Industry
Manhattan’s cannabis industry has reached a historic milestone with the opening of “Bliss + Lex,” the borough’s first Black woman-owned cannabis dispensary. Located at the corner of East 86th and Lexington Avenue, this pioneering establishment marks a significant achievement in New York’s burgeoning cannabis market.
“Since cannabis recreationally was legalized in New York, we’ve had our eyes set on applying for a license.” – Nicole Lucien, co-founder of “Bliss + Lex”
A Dream Realized: Generational Wealth and Family Legacy
For Nicole Lucien and her husband, Christopher Lucien, the founders of “Bliss + Lex,” the venture represents more than just a business opportunity; it symbolizes a chance to secure a brighter future for their family, including their five-year-old twins, Veronica and Ryan. Christopher Lucien emphasized the transformative potential of the endeavor, stating, “This allowed us the opportunity to create generational wealth and change the course of my family forever.”
Perseverance and Determination: Overcoming Obstacles
Nicole Lucien’s achievement as the first Black woman in Manhattan to secure a cannabis dispensary license is a testament to her perseverance and determination. However, their journey to entrepreneurship has not been without its challenges. Christopher, who shares ownership of “Bliss + Lex,” has faced obstacles due to a prior drug conviction.
“I have tried to start several businesses like my wife was saying home improvement construction, and because of my criminal background I was denied, even after 20 some odd years of a clean record there was never a chance where I had a second chance this was always been held against me.” – Christopher Lucien
A Welcoming and Personalized Shopping Experience
As “Bliss + Lex” prepares to serve the Manhattan community, workers diligently put the finishing touches on the store, ensuring a welcoming and inviting environment for customers. Situated in prime retail real estate in front of a subway entrance, the dispensary aims to provide a comfortable space for patrons to explore cannabis products tailored to their preferences.
“We wanted to create a very warm welcoming environment explore the plant and pick up the product that’s perfect for them,” Nicole Lucien remarked, emphasizing the store’s commitment to offering a personalized and enriching shopping experience.
“Bliss + Lex” represents not only a milestone in Manhattan’s cannabis landscape but also a beacon of hope and opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from marginalized communities.
