Happy Munkey Boutique Opens in Inwood After 3-Year Journey
After nearly three years of navigating certifications, paperwork, site approvals, and complex state regulations, Happy Munkey Cannabis boutique has officially opened its doors in the Inwood neighborhood of Upper Manhattan. The grand opening signifies a major milestone for the founders, Vladimir Bautista and Ramon Reyes, as Happy Munkey becomes the first legal cannabis store in Inwood.
Their journey highlights the immense challenges of entering New York’s legal cannabis market, particularly for entrepreneurs who have prior history in the industry when it was still illegal. The opening of this boutique not only underscores the importance of persistence but also sheds light on the ongoing difficulties that legitimate cannabis businesses face from unlicensed competitors.
From Street Hustlers to Legal Entrepreneurs
Vladimir Bautista and Ramon Reyes
Bautista and Reyes have a long history with cannabis, having sold marijuana in the streets of New York during the 2000s and 2010s. They faced multiple arrests and were incarcerated several times due to the illicit nature of their business at that time. However, the legalization of cannabis in New York in 2021 offered them a new opportunity to enter the market legitimately.
Their experiences as street dealers gave them unique insight into the cannabis industry. After the state prioritized giving licenses to individuals who had been arrested or incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses, Bautista and Reyes were able to leverage their experience to build a legal business. Their criminal records were expunged, and they were granted a cannabis license, allowing them to establish Happy Munkey in their home community of Inwood.
This transformation from being viewed as criminals to becoming legitimate entrepreneurs has been a deeply significant and personal journey for both founders.
A Journey Marked by Perseverance
Opening Happy Munkey was no easy task. Bautista and Reyes faced numerous delays and challenges throughout the nearly three-year process. From securing the necessary approvals to meeting the state’s rigorous compliance standards, the journey to launch was longer and more difficult than either had anticipated.
However, their perseverance has paid off. The boutique’s custom-designed layout and prime location in Inwood mark a new chapter for the duo, who are excited to finally bring their vision to life. They are now able to serve the same community they once operated in illegally, but this time, with the full support of the state and within a regulated framework.
READ MORE HERE ON HAPPY MUNKEY’S GRAND OPENING