Our Long (but short) Story
In 2020, the world stood still amidst the chaos of the Coronavirus pandemic. It was during this time of uncertainty that Smoke Organic was born, not just as a business, but as a personal mission.
I, like many young South Africans, found solace in the simple pleasure of smoking 'the devil's lettuce.' However, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma's tobacco ban, under the guise of health precautions, left us devoid of essentials like rolling papers and filter tips. This shortage turned into a personal challenge for me. I vividly remember hopping from one local store to another, only to face disappointment. It was a trip to China Town that finally ended my search, and it was there that an idea sparked in me.
This struggle wasn't mine alone. I realized there must be a community out there, facing the same dilemma. This thought led to the birth of Smoke Organic Store β a platform intended not just to sell products, but to connect and support fellow enthusiasts in these trying times. We wanted to create a space that felt like a trusted friend's recommendation, a place where every smoker could find what they needed, especially with the impending legalization of marijuana.
Our humble beginnings can be traced back to "Eco Rolling Tips," our first product. These were more than just items for sale; they were a piece of my childhood, crafted from Cape Thatching Reed found near my home. These eco-friendly tips, along with a selection of other smoking accessories, marked our entry into the world of online retail. Our very first order, placed via Instagram, wasn't just a transaction; it felt like a vote of confidence from a community we aspired to serve.
As our journey evolved, so did our vision. The introduction of vaping products like the Airscream and its prefilled pods was initially a step into the unknown. Yet, it resonated with our customers, and their enthusiasm fueled our growth. It was a reminder that our journey was as much about adapting to our community's needs as it was about holding true to our origins.
The growth of Smoke Organic has been a family affair. As orders increased from a handful a week to dozens a day, my brother joined to manage the growing logistics demands. This partnership allowed me to focus on building relationships with our customers and expanding our range. Our evolution into South Africa's most sought-after online vape store has been a testament to the power of family, community, and adaptability.
Today, as we handle thousands of orders each year, our ethos remains unchanged. We're not just a business; we're a family-run entity that values every customer, every order, and every opportunity to serve the community that has supported us from day one.
Our story is more than a business trajectory; it's a narrative of personal struggle, community building, and familial bonds. It's a story we share with pride and an invitation for you to become a part of our growing family at Smoke Organic.