A Little Bud is a locally owned cannabis dispensary – Whistler’s first licensed shop of its kind.
They’re relatively new in town, but they’ve already been making a splash in the community. They recently won not one but two Whistler Excellence Awards; Emerging Business of the Year and Service Excellence – Small Business. Plus, they have been leading the field in our seasonal Secret Shopper Program both in winter and summer.
We recently chatted to Director of Operations Jeremy Gabel and Owner Randy Tingskou to learn more about the secret to their success, their challenges, who they admire in town, and more.
What inspired you to start A Little Bud?
A Little Bud started with the simple goal to create a cannabis retail experience grounded in trust, compassion, and genuine care. When Randy’s wife sought cannabis for wellness and struggled to find good guidance, he saw an opportunity to build a place where people could feel supported, informed, and valued. That experience became the foundation for A Little Bud’s customer-first philosophy.
What makes A Little Bud special?
A Little Bud stands out because we prioritize people above everything else: our customers, our team, and our community. We pay a true living wage, provide fully company-funded benefits for staff and their loved ones, and donate consistently to local nonprofits. Our warm service, thoughtful product selection, and commitment to doing what is right make A Little Bud more than a store. It is a safe space within the community that is welcome to all.
Which product or service are you most proud of any why?
We’re most proud of our free local delivery service and our locals discount. Free delivery removes barriers and makes cannabis more accessible for Whistler visitors and residents who rely on convenience, mobility support, or busy schedules. Our locals discount ensures RMOW community members always receive fair, affordable pricing.
What challenges do you face running a business in Whistler, and how do you manage them?
Running a business in Whistler comes with unique challenges, from the high cost of living and limited staff housing to the strict cannabis advertising regulations that make it difficult to promote our services. We manage these hurdles by providing affordable staff housing, offering a true living wage, and focusing on exceptional customer service and community trust to grow our reputation organically. These commitments help us attract great staff and ensure residents and visitors know they can rely on us.
Do you have any big plans for the business you can share with us?
Our future plans focus on deepening what defines us: giving back and delivering exceptional service. We’ll continue expanding our charitable contributions to local organizations and Indigenous communities, and we remain committed to elevating our customer experience to match Whistler’s world-class standards. As we grow, community impact and outstanding service will continue to guide everything we do.
What’s your favourite thing about being a member of the Whistler Chamber?
My favorite thing about being a member of the Whistler Chamber is the sense of connection and community it provides. The Chamber’s networking opportunities are invaluable—we recently found our new SEO partner, L8P Digital Marketing, through the Chamber. It’s inspiring to be part of a network of local business leaders who support one another, share ideas, and work together to make Whistler an even better place to live, work, and visit.
What do you wish you knew when you were starting out?
When Randy was starting out, he was given the advice to ‘surround yourself with smart people and get out of their way.’ He took this to heart and used it as a guiding principle to support the team, give them the tools and freedom to succeed, and create an environment where they can truly flourish.
What advice do you have for other local business owners?
Invest in your team and your community. Treat your employees well, give them the tools and support to succeed, and prioritize building genuine relationships with your customers and neighbors. When you focus on people and purpose, your business will not only grow, but also make a meaningful, positive impact.
Is there a business in town you particularly admire, and if so, why?
Blackcomb Springs Suites deserves a special shout out for their exceptional customer service and attention to detail. They consistently go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for their guests, and their dedication to hospitality is inspiring. It’s a great example of how commitment to service and genuine care can make a business stand out and build a strong, loyal community following.