Tuesday August 9, 2016

By Abby Hutmacher

We all know how crazy the dating scene can be. Though the experience can be enjoyable -- we meet memorable people and learn about ourselves in the process. No matter how well-matched we are, seeing eye-to-eye on cannabis can sometimes be a deal breaker.

There are countless stories of a pot smoker connecting with a non-smoker, and often the sentiment is the same. Maybe they’re a casual smoker, but not involved in the industry or legalization. Perhaps they don’t mind it, but prefer if you didn’t smoke. It’s common for a potential partner who disapproves of marijuana to convince you to stop smoking, or smoke less. No matter how attractive, attentive, intelligent and funny they are, it can be hard to make it work if they’re against weed.

The dating scene has evolved quite a bit since the early 2000’s. Today, there are virtual hangouts and dating sites that bring together people from all corners of the world, which makes it much easier to meet that perfect someone based on a specific set of criteria. One such criteria: must love weed.

Luckily, there are dating apps specifically dedicated to connecting pot patrons with marijuana mavens. They function similar to other dating sites, but with users that love weed and want to share it with a special someone. This is great news for anyone trying to avoid the cannabis closet, or anyone just wanting to share some tasty nugs with a new friend

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For those who don’t share the same passion for pot, it may be difficult to understand why marijuana should be a dating prerequisite at all – even people who only occasionally consume cannabis may not fully grasp the importance of a marijuana-themed dating site – but for those of us living in the midst of cannabis culture, this is important. Cannabis support is almost as important as a good personality and a compassionate heart.

Why? For many of us, cannabis is more than a pastime. It is more than a hobby or a simple activity through which to bond. For cannabis enthusiasts, marijuana is a way of life. The last thing you want to deal with when dating someone new, is to not only confess your marijuana use but defend it when a well-intentioned beau tries to convince you to give it up. There's no need to give up pot to appease a partner and a 420-themed dating site helps ensure that it won’t be an issue in the first place.

Studies suggest that couples who consume cannabis together are less likely to experience intimate partner violence and may even have higher levels of satisfaction within the relationship. This could be related to cannabis use as a joined hobby (and thus a bonding mechanism), reduced occurrences of anxiety and depression or the fact that marijuana dulls knee-jerk reactions that often lead to discourse within relationships. Whatever the reason, couples who use cannabis together seem to be happier in the long run. In other words, dating sites centered around cannabis could have all the pieces necessary to build a solid relationship.

Though the marijuana industry is young, it is ripe with possibilities including the possibility to meet a like-minded stoner-type with a simple swipe right. Some popular 420-friendly dating sites include High There, Stoner Singles, My 420 Mate and 420 Singles, though many other popular sites offer cannabis as an optional prerequisite, as well.

It’s easy to fall in love with Mary Jane, but when it comes to long-term companionship, she does leave something to be desired. If you’ve been thinking about jumping back into the dating pool but would rather not jeopardize your relationship with Mary Jane to get there, then consider joining a 420-friendly dating site over traditional dating sites. These apps are perfect for those looking for love, but can be a great way to meet new stoner friends, too.

Would you try a marijuana-themed dating site? Why or why not?