Feature: Hillary Walsh – Minerva Cannabis
Designer, Decorator, Merchandiser – Your name falls under alot of different categories when talking about Minerva – What has been your favourite part of this project?
My favourite part of this project has been experiencing the different reactions from guests when they first walk through our doors. No matter what we do in life, we are going to experience criticism, but I don’t think there is ever a bigger critic of our own work than ourselves. Most creatives hope that their work will spark some form of emotion or reaction and having guests express their appreciation for the space we’ve created has been very rewarding. I hoped the Minerva flagship would set a new standard for the cannabis retail experience and we are doing just that by allowing guests to experience a safe and comfortable space with knowledgeable individuals willing to offer their expertise.
What are your plans for the window at Minerva?
If I tell you, I’d have to kill you. Just kidding.
We plan to always keep it interesting and constantly evolving. The intention of the waiting room is to offer a creative and collaborative space to converse in. It gives us the opportunity to display new products and partnerships with other local vendors and most importantly, welcome customers. The last two years of lockdowns have reminded us how important it is to support our friends and neighbours and there is no better way to welcome them to our space then with a smile through a big open window.
How has cannabis influenced your life and do you support the legal industry?
Cannabis is something I began experimenting with in college because it was the first time in my life that I started to experience symptoms of anxiety. It helped me cope with these symptoms during a very stressful time in my life and I continue to use it for the same reasons. The difference is that now, I have a much better understanding of what works for me. One thing I really appreciate about the legal industry is that it offers so much information about what you are consuming which makes it much easier to find what works for you.
What does the future hold for Hillary Walsh?
While I play a major role in the overall aesthetic of Minerva, there is so much more to this space than the four walls that surround it. I look forward to what is in store for future projects and how we will continue to collaborate and grow the brand.
What are you using right now?
I can’t say that I am committed to any particular brand or product as of yet. However, I have found myself re-purchasing two products at Minerva: The 12 pack of Divvy pre-rolls and the Japanese Cedar Bud CBD Face Cream. The Divvy pre-rolls are light as they are a hybrid with CBD and are small enough for individual use. Not to mention, it is well packaged in sleek metal case. The Pura Earth Japanese Cedar Bud CBD Face Cream has become a skincare staple. I love the very mild scent and the consistency is perfect for my skin. The perfect moisturizer is hard to find and this one hits the nail on the head.