Now, that landscape is shifting with the passing of a federal government‑funding bill that includes a provision tightening regulations on consumable hemp-derived products.
Amid this shifting landscape, Stinnett’s story illustrates the impact one entrepreneur can have on her community and the industry at large. Here’s how the Emerald Empire came to be.
A personal journey with cannabis
Stinnett’s experience with cannabis began after discovering the plant’s therapeutic benefits during her major health crisis, having been raised to distrust the product outside of a retail perspective.
“Twenty years ago, I would have probably called this plant destructive,” Stinnett said. “But during my cancer treatments in my early 20s, I learned about its therapeutic and medicinal benefits. Then, when my aunt had cancer I witnessed her quality of life improve after consuming the plant by being able to eat and eventually get out of bed. That’s when Emerald was born.”
In 2019, Stinnett founded Emerald Organics, inspired to bring cannabis knowledge and history to her hometown. Her goal was simple but ambitious: positively educate Fort Worth with hemp-derived products for wellness.
As the community responded enthusiastically, six years later she expanded the concept to include Emerald City Lounge, a safe, educational space to normalize cannabis use, encouraging conversation and fostering connection.
Built on safety and quality
Historically, one of the main concerns of the cannabis industry in Texas has been the safety and quality of hemp-derived THC & CBD products. Emerald Organics, however, was founded on a commitment to these pillars from the beginning.
“Quality is sometimes sacrificed for profit. Our customers rely on these products for socializing and/or managing their health symptoms, so consistency is our key driver,” Stinnett said. “Emerald offers clear messaging, third-party certificate of analysis, and educational content which has shown to gain loyalty in a crowded market.”
Teaching, not just selling
At Emerald, education isn’t just a buzzword; it’s what the brand stands for.
“We empower our customers through meaningful, informed consultations,” Stinnett said. “When we educate them, we create lifelong advocates who trust the Emerald brand.”
That education-forward approach is visible everywhere. It can be seen in science-backed posters on the walls and in conversations about how cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. For many visitors, it’s the first time they have encountered factual, stigma-free information about the plant.
Cannabis trained and certified budtenders at Emerald help customers find tailored products through personalized conversations.
Candice emphasizes that while Emerald makes no medical claims, some top reasons customers visit Emerald Organics are:
- To find products that may improve sleep
- To possibly alleviate PTSD, anxiety and/or stress
- To try and unwind after long workdays
A voice for change
Beyond running her business, Stinnett has long been a champion for responsible cannabis legislation. Earlier this year, her grassroots efforts helped prevent a state-level THC ban, with Governor Abbott vetoing the proposed legislation after receiving more than 120,000 letters and petitions.
“People still approach me in the store to say, ‘Thank you for fighting for us,’” Stinnett said. “Their trust in Emerald, leaning on us to guide them on how to make their voice heard, helped secure an entire industry’s future in Fort Worth and Texas.”
Now, with the federal ban on most hemp-derived products, the stakes are higher. Stinnett said she will continue mobilizing and collaborating with her community as the industry navigates uncertainty under the new regulations.
Under the new rules, hemp products cannot exceed 0.4 mg of THC per container and must meet certain safety and production standards. Retailers and producers have one year to sell existing inventory before the restrictions take effect. While hemp products have long been valued for wellness, culinary and recreational uses, this change introduces a period of uncertainty for small businesses navigating the transition.
With the federal ban on most hemp-derived products passed, the future of Emerald Organics and Emerald City Lounge is uncertain. What is clear is they have one year to continue serving their community—making now the time to visit, learn and support their mission.
“We are disappointed but not defeated. Our new mission: 365 days to regulate, not ban.” Stinnett says. “We can stop this language from going into effect so we can protect the hemp industry that millions rely on for improved quality of life. Together, we can ensure a victorious future for hemp.”
How to support
- Visit Emerald Organics today at 5317 Golden Triangle Blvd., Fort Worth, or shopping online at www.emeraldorganicscannabis.com.
- Explore the Emerald City Lounge at 937 Woodward St., Fort Worth, or visit www.emeraldcitylounge.com.
- Shop from the comfort of your home and place an online order.
- To read more about Stinnett and her businesses, click here.
