Hemp brands used to be terrified of digital marketing, like someone who is afraid of tripping on a Lego in the dark. Changing restrictions, ad platforms that are too picky, and audiences that don’t know what’s going on. You’d think you were attempting to sell snow cones in a storm. But what about now? Things are changing. Hemp and cannabis have a place at the marketing table, and clever companies are taking it. At hemp aware, we don’t just market hemp — we amplify its voice with data-driven digital solutions.
Let’s talk business—real plans, real outcomes. First of all, Google isn’t your enemy, but it doesn’t give out gold stars for CBD keywords. You need a plan that is sharper than a cactus. Long-tail terms, instructional content, and queries that your audience asks themselves at 2 a.m. are where the SEO gems are. It might be a mud-wrestling match to rank “hemp wellness drops.” But “how to calm anxious dogs naturally” or “is hemp oil safe for seniors” don’t follow the rules of algorithms.
Don’t forget about local SEO either. Do you have a store in Portland, Austin, or “that funky spot on Main with the mural”? Make the most of those Google Business listings. Don’t ask for desperate reviews; ask for warm, lived-in ones. These small digital breadcrumbs can transform visitors into regular clients.
Next, social media. You might have heard scary stories. “My Instagram account disappeared overnight!” Yes, that does happen. But being clever wins the long race. Share behind-the-scenes looks at what’s going on, who’s on the team, and even mistakes. Keep things clean. Teach and amuse. Short videos that teach how to utilize a product? Gold. Memes that your grandma might not understand? Also gold for the proper group of people.
People buy stories. Your founder’s three-year struggle to make the first batch? People love that. Your packaging disaster when customs held up 1,000 bottles? It’s better than watching a lot of reality TV. Every day, real stories beat still images of products.
Email is not old-fashioned or out of date. If you stay calm, it’s a direct line. Don’t fill up inboxes. Send out useful things like tips, recipes, customer stories, and mild reminders with deals. People like brands that feel like friends, like Canva drawings, jokes about picky printers, and even soundtracks for relaxing.
Don’t forget about working together. Being on a podcast or local news show? Street cred. Working with a yoga studio, smoothie bar, or wellness event draws in new people. Everyone benefits.
Analytics may sound boring, but if you pay attention, those figures will sing. Keep an eye on what content generates clicks and what doesn’t, and change it. Don’t fly without knowing where you’re going. With each pivot, you get closer to the sweet spot.
Last but not least, be patient. Hemp and marijuana marketing is like a garden, not a store. Put in a lot of seeds. Take care of your relationships. Don’t worry about a few bumps in the road. You will witness the roots of your brand grow strong and wide.