ELEVATED STRATEGIES

Full Spectrum Leadership for Cannabis Dispensaries & Brands

Revenue-focused leadership across strategy, creative, and operations
without the overhead of a full-time team.

Book a Strategy Call

SERVICES

Expert leadership for cannabis dispensaries & brands.

We help dispensaries and cannabis brands grow through aligned leadership across strategy, creative, and retail operations. Our full spectrum model gives you senior-level expertise — only when you need it — supported by a powerhouse team of specialists who execute with clarity, speed, and precision.

Fractional Leadership

& Strategy

For dispensary owners and brand leaders who need clarity, direction, and confident decision-making.

What this looks like
• Strategic planning & prioritization
• Cross-functional leadership (marketing, ops, vendors)
• Executive-level guidance without full-time commitment

Outcomes
• Clear revenue-driven roadmap
• Faster, smarter decisions
• Aligned teams executing the same goals

Creative Direction &

Brand Development

For brands that need to stand out, convert, and feel cohesive across every touchpoint.

What this looks like
• Visual direction & brand positioning
• Packaging, campaigns, and storytelling
• Creative that supports business goals

Outcomes
• Strong, cohesive brand identity
• Higher-converting creative assets
• Clear differentiation in crowded markets

Book a Strategy Call

Retail Operations &

Marketing Execution

For dispensaries that need consistent execution and better performance at the store level.

What this looks like
• Email & SMS strategy and execution
• Vendor coordination & promotional planning
• Inventory-aware marketing support

Outcomes
• More efficient operations
• Stronger vendor partnerships
• Improved customer experience and sales

Ruthie Edelson, cannabis retail marketing strategist and fractional CMO

ABOUT RUTHIE

I’m Ruthie Edelson a cannabis retail strategist, creative director, and fractional CMO with over eight years of hands-on experience driving revenue inside licensed dispensaries and cannabis brands.

I help operators move from reactive marketing to a clear, executable strategy. That means building high-performing house brands, tightening operations, aligning teams, and creating marketing systems that actually convert, not just look good.

My work sits at the intersection of strategy, creative, and retail operations, allowing me to spot gaps, eliminate inefficiencies, and unlock growth quickly. I don’t just advise, I lead, execute, and stay accountable to results.

I partner with dispensaries and brands that want senior-level leadership, smarter execution, and a strategic partner who understands both the creative and operational realities of cannabis retail.

Fractional Leadership Team

  • Michelle Huffaker

    WEBSITE DESIGN/DEVELOPMENT & SEO

    Michelle is an expert website developer and SEO specialist who blends technical rigor with beautiful, brand-forward design. She ensures your digital presence is optimized, compliant, and built to convert. Michelle has collaborated with Ruthie on cannabis branding and dispensary projects since 2018.

  • Kalina Fernandez

    RETAIL STRATEGY & OPERATIONS

    Kalina specializes in purchasing, vendor negotiations, inventory strategy, and operational systems that maximize profitability. Her expertise ensures dispensaries run efficiently and intelligently behind the scenes. Kalina has partnered with Ruthie on retail strategy since 2018.

  • Linda Morachis

    DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST

    Linda brings creativity, strategy, and compelling storytelling to social media and digital campaigns. She helps brands translate their voice into content that builds connection and drives engagement. Linda has been part of Ruthie’s marketing team since 2021.

  • Shelby Huffaker, MPH

    SPEAKER, WRITER & EDUCATION

    Shelby brings deep expertise in substance use research, harm reduction, and cannabis education. She strengthens campaigns with evidence-based messaging and elevates brand credibility through clear, informed communication.

  • Danielle Rose

    HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST

    Danielle provides HR strategy, employee development, onboarding frameworks, and compliance guidance. Her work ensures teams are supported, aligned, and equipped to deliver exceptional retail experiences.

What Clients Say…

  • Having been on the radio and in the media for more than 20 years in San Diego, I am hard pressed to think of anyone who I have worked with, who I love more than Ruthie. She is smart, diligent, organized, thoughtful and my list could keep going on and on. Ruthie is always thinking about how to maximize relationships, and in my business, that is urgent!

    Scott Kaplan
    Owner and Radio Talk Host
    Kaplan & Crew / ESPN Los Angeles

  • I had the pleasure of working with Ruthie Edelson during her time at Torrey Holistics. I was extremely impressed with her skills and work ethic, along with her innovative ideas and creativity. She is an excellent communicator, which made working with her smooth and efficient. Not to mention - she is a lot of fun to work with, which made our work together more enjoyable. I would highly recommend Ruthie to anyone looking for Marketing or Graphic Design needs.

    Savannah Garden
    Director of Customer Success
    Holistic Industries

  • Ruthie is a very talented marketer with a great eye for design. She understands how to connect with target audiences through the use of thoughtful, creative messaging.

    Dan Stevens
    Account Executive
    Clear Channel Outdoor

  • Ruthie is an exceptional marketer with truly outstanding graphic design skills. Throughout our partnership, she demonstrated a remarkable combination of efficiency, creativity, and excellent communication. When it comes to graphic design, her creativity knows no bounds. From eye-catching ads to engaging marketing collateral, her designs add a fresh and distinctive flair to materials, setting brands apart in a competitive landscape. Her efficiency, creativity, and excellent communication skills make her an invaluable asset to any project.

    Lisa B.
    Senior Partnership Manager
    San Diego Magazine

  • I hired Ruthie to help with our companies new brand image and content. We wanted a more local southern California feel instead of a national generic look which we get from our manufacturer. She is extremely professional and punctual. I appreciate her quick response times and knowledge of the local market trends. I will definitely hire Ruthie again for any upcoming needs with marketing.

    Ryan W.
    Owner of EcoWater SoCal

Let’s Grow Your Brand Together

hello@ruthie-edelson.com