by Emma Sylvia
Up in the Highlands, there’s much to enjoy – the walkable nature of the neighborhood, the beautiful views of New York, the sprawling beaches. There’s so much to love, and a new aspect just got added to the list: The Honorable Plant, the Highlands’s new dispensary that’s not just another corporate shop. It’s truly a community run, community focused business that’s proud to open its doors for the first time this July.
“This is our first project in New Jersey,” says Kimberly Wagner, the Director of Compliance at The Honorable Plant. She’s worked with The Honorable Plant’s ownership group for 11 years, starting in Arizona, before moving from the West Coast to the East to work on the New Jersey location – but all of the owners of the dispensary are New Jersey locals, which is in the very lifeblood of the business itself. “The ownership group is from New Jersey, so it’s something they’ve been wanting to do for a very long time. They’re very happy to be able to do it in their home state.”
Wagner describes the project as a “full-circle” experience to be so hands-on with the dispensary, especially since it’s now at the heart of the Highlands community. There was a plethora of reasons for The Honorable Plant to make its home in the Highlands. “We were drawn to the Highlands for its distinctive charm, strong sense of community, and, importantly, its openness to working with a cannabis operator.”
Highlands has been nothing but welcoming, vibrant and forward-thinking, both in its general atmosphere and in the way it has welcomed the dispensary with open arms. The Honorable Plant wanted to recognize this hospitality in any way it could, including the aesthetic. Inside the dispensary, they’ve incorporated nautical elements throughout as a nod to the town’s coastal character.
“We hope our space reflects both our respect for the plant and our connection to the people and place we now call home,” Wagner says.
The Honorable Plant will be having their grand opening on July 5, and as many new businesses find, it’s been equal parts exciting and hectic. One of the biggest successes from the process, though, has been the beautification of the building, which Wagner fondly remembers with a laugh.
“When ownership first suggested this huge mural on the side of the wall, I thought they were crazy,” she recalls. “I thought it would cost so much money – but I was the one out of touch. It turned out to be one of the best decisions we made.” The mural itself is a massive octopus – also the dispensary’s logo – that has attracted people all over town. “People drive up and take photos of it; the town loves it, and it’s taken on a life of its own.” Wagner says people have remarked that the building used to be an eyesore, and that the community is thankful for the vibrancy to have been brought back to the building. “The revitalization has done so much for the community. You get some ‘feel good’ with it – not only do people want to shop here, but they’re glad that you’re here.”
Laughing, Wagner adds, “People stop me and say that the mural is so cool – I’ll be the first to admit that I was wrong!”
It’s not just the decor that makes The Honorable Plant unique. It has local roots, local ownership, and a commitment to the customers. “We’re proudly women-owned, Jersey-based, and independent,” Wagner explains. “That independence allows us to stay focused on what really matters: creating a welcoming, education and community-driven cannabis experience.”
Wagner knows that sometimes a user’s first cannabis experience might not be what they were looking forward to. That’s why the team at The Honorable Plant is made up of well-trained professionals that are able to guide each customer in order to help them find the best product for them. “We’re focused on being good neighbors, investing in local relationships and helping remove the stigma around cannabis through education and genuine connection.”
On July 5, the doors of The Honorable Plant open, with Mayor Carolyn Broullon cutting the ribbon, alongside food trucks, an educational booth, vendors, a DJ and more. Customers can look forward to The Honorable Plant being a one-stop shop, with cannabis products and accessories, as well as smaller brands from mom-and-pop shops. “We’ll have a product for every budget.”
“I was raised by a mother who fought for this plant when it wasn't easy or accepted,” says co-owner Jackie Bruckmann. “She was pivotal in the expansion of this program and believed in its healing power long before the world caught up. She taught me the value of leading with integrity, education, and care. Opening The Honorable Plant in Highlands is my way of honoring that legacy by creating a space where people can learn, ask questions and feel confident in their choices.”
“Our goal is to be a trusted, welcoming presence and a true asset to the community in every way we can,” Wagner says. “That means more than just serving customers – it means showing up, getting involved, and participating in this special town.”
You can visit The Honorable Plant at 123 Bay Avenue, Highlands
To find out more, visit HonorablePlant.com, call 732.334.6545, or visit their Instagram @honorable_plant
