Arend Richard and Cirrus Social Club – A New Chapter in Cannabis Hospitality

In this edition of Creator Spotlight, we sit down with Arend Richard, a well-known figure in the cannabis space who’s on the verge of opening Cirrus Social Club, one of Colorado’s most anticipated cannabis consumption lounges. From his journey in content creation to building a one-of-a-kind social club, Arend’s story is about innovation, persistence, and passion for the plant. Here’s how he’s turning a vision into reality.

From Content Creator to Cannabis Advocate

Arend’s introduction to cannabis began in high school, but it wasn’t until 2012 that it became a central part of his life. After being prescribed cannabis for a rare blood cell disease, Arend experienced firsthand how the plant could improve his quality of life, both physically and mentally. This life-changing moment inspired him to start creating cannabis content, launching a YouTube channel under his own name, where he became affectionately known as “The Gay Stoner.” His channel, which featured educational content, product reviews, and cannabis culture, grew to nearly 200,000 subscribers before YouTube deleted it—a blow that impacted many creators in the cannabis space.

Despite the setback, Arend didn’t give up. In 2019, he co-founded WeedTube, a platform designed specifically for cannabis content creators, which at its peak boasted 6 million users. Arend’s experience with censorship has shaped his approach to both content creation and business. He continues to advocate for cannabis and push the boundaries of what’s possible in an industry still facing regulatory challenges.

Cirrus Social Club: A Vision for Cannabis Hospitality

The idea for Cirrus Social Club came from Arend’s desire to create a place where people could enjoy cannabis in a social setting without having to step outside or hide in the parking lot. After researching Colorado’s marijuana hospitality laws, he decided to embark on a journey to build a space that combines cannabis consumption with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Finding the right location was key. When Arend stumbled upon the 8,600-square-foot space on East Colfax Avenue, he knew it was the perfect spot for Cirrus. With its beautiful barrel ceiling and central location, the building offered the ideal canvas for what Arend envisioned—a place where people could come together, enjoy cannabis, and feel at home.

Creating the Cirrus Experience

Arend has put a lot of thought into the details of Cirrus, from the design to the ambiance. One standout feature is the Steinway piano, custom-painted in a one-of-a-kind cloudy pink color. Music is a key element of the vibe Arend wants to create, and live performances will play a role in setting the mood for guests. “We have this rule called the ‘Nana Rule,’” Arend explains. “Whenever we’re making decisions about Cirrus, we ask, ‘Would Nana feel comfortable here?’ If the answer is yes, we go for it.”

Another unique touch is the “Flight Attendance” service, a nod to the hospitality experience that guests will receive when they visit Cirrus. Arend’s background in restaurant management, coupled with his deep connection to the cannabis plant, informs every aspect of the club’s operations.

Navigating Challenges and Looking Ahead

Like any entrepreneur, Arend has faced challenges along the way. One of the biggest hurdles has been securing funding. “Sixty days of funding pitches, 25 presentations, and zero dollars—it was tough,” he recalls. But instead of giving up, Arend doubled down on his vision, learned from the setbacks, and eventually raised the necessary funds to bring Cirrus to life.

With plans to open in early 2025, Arend’s goal for Cirrus is to create a space that sets the standard for cannabis hospitality—not just in Denver, but across the country. “I want people to sesh together. I’m here for cannabis, not alcohol,” Arend emphasizes. Cirrus will focus entirely on creating a premium cannabis experience, complete with small plates and shareable dishes that cater to guests’ elevated appetites.

A Taste of What’s to Come: The Food Menu

In an exclusive reveal, Arend shared a sneak peek of Cirrus’ whimsical and nostalgic food menu. One highlight is Miss Trunchbull’s Cake, inspired by the classic scene from the movie Matilda. This towering slice of chocolate cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Another crowd-pleaser is the group sundae, a massive bowl of ice cream and toppings designed for sharing with friends—a perfect treat after a session at the club.

While the dessert menu is impressive, it’s just a glimpse of the carefully crafted experience guests can expect at Cirrus. Arend is committed to making sure every detail contributes to creating a welcoming, enjoyable space for cannabis consumers.

Final Thoughts

Arend Richard’s journey from content creator to cannabis entrepreneur is one of resilience and innovation. With Cirrus Social Club, he’s creating a space that brings people together over a shared love of cannabis, fostering community and breaking new ground in the cannabis hospitality industry. As Cirrus prepares to open its doors, Arend’s vision for a more connected, cannabis-friendly world is about to become a reality.

Please support Arend and Cirrus by signing up for their waitlist here.