New York Cannabis Pioneer Finds Success After Past Challenges

Jennifer Tzar, often regarded as the “Tzar of New York cannabis,” has made a remarkable turnaround from her earlier days as a fashion and music photographer to becoming a prominent dispensary owner. Her journey was sparked by a dramatic incident in 2011 when her Soho apartment caught fire, exposing a substantial stash of marijuana—almost 11 pounds valued at approximately $80,000.

At the time, she was arrested, charged with first-degree possession, and briefly imprisoned at Rikers Island. Despite the hurdles, Tzar saw her setback as an opportunity. Recognizing the changing legal landscape in New York—where recreational cannabis was legalized in 2021 and priority licenses are given to individuals with prior cannabis-related arrests—she decided to pivot her career.

Initially reluctant, she eventually realized the potential of opening a licensed cannabis dispensary. After obtaining her license and opening Dagmar Cannabis in December 2023, her store has become a local fixture. The dispensary features a bright, artistic interior designed to appeal to her upscale neighborhood’s clientele, including some A-list celebrities.

Her decision to enter the cannabis industry was driven partly by financial necessity—faced with mounting bills and a family illness—leading her to sell her property and start anew. Since then, her business has flourished, reportedly earning $4.5 million in its first year with projections of up to $7 million this year. She also plans to expand by opening a second location in Williamsburg.

Tzar emphasizes her pride in being the first woman-owned licensed dispensary in New York and highlights her dedication to creating a welcoming environment, often staffed predominantly by women. She also maintains a close relationship with political figures like Governor Kathy Hochul, contributing her perspective to the evolving cannabis policy landscape.

Remarkably, her dispensary is located just around the corner from her 2011 arrest site, highlighting how far she has come. Despite initial doubts, Tzar now enjoys her new role, admitting, “It turns out that I actually really love it.”