Cannabis and Media Unite: Colorado Brands Launch Limited Edition Infused Pre-Rolls with Westword

Independent Media Meets Craft Cannabis in a Unique Collaboration

In a move that spotlights the creative potential of cannabis partnerships, two Colorado-based cannabis brands — Meraki Brands and Mighty Melts — have teamed up with Denver’s iconic alt-weekly publication Westword to release a limited-edition line of infused pre-rolls. The product launch marks a first-of-its-kind collaboration between an independent media outlet and licensed cannabis producers, further blurring the lines between media, marketing, and marijuana.

Launch Party Kicks Off the Rollout of “Westword Joint Packs”

The collaboration, which will debut at a launch party on August 7 at Denver’s cannabis-friendly venue Tetra Lounge, offers a unique take on brand-building and community engagement. Attendees can expect to be the first to experience the new Westword-branded infused pre-rolls, which combine Meraki’s premium flower with Mighty Melts’ solventless bubble hash to create a high-potency, terpene-rich smoking experience.

This campaign, anchored by cultural crossover and community collaboration, positions cannabis not just as a product but as part of the broader cultural fabric of Denver — something Westword has long embraced.

From Print Ads to Product Collabs: Westword Reverses Roles

While most news outlets avoided cannabis advertising during the early legalization era, Westword leaned in — becoming a crucial ally for cannabis brands in Colorado when few media channels would touch the plant. Now, the paper is taking things a step further, evolving from an advertiser to a collaborator.

Ironically, it wasn’t the cannabis companies that initiated the idea. It was Westword’s own news editor, Thomas Mitchell, who approached Meraki and Mighty Melts with the proposal to co-brand infused pre-rolls bearing the Westword name.

“It’s another way for us to connect with our readers and support the cannabis industry that has long supported us,” said Mitchell.

Cannabis Brand Visibility Gets a Boost Through Media Partnerships

According to Jim Koller, owner of Meraki Brands, the collaboration is a strategic opportunity to enhance brand visibility and build lasting connections with consumers who value quality and authenticity.

Steve Palopoli, Koller’s operating partner at Meraki, echoed the sentiment, highlighting Westword’s consistent support of small cannabis operators over the years.

Media and Marijuana: An Evolving Symbiosis

The partnership between Westword and the cannabis companies reflects a broader trend in which cannabis brands seek alliances with mainstream cultural outlets to build credibility and customer loyalty. As marketing restrictions remain tight in the cannabis sector — especially on social media platforms and traditional ad networks — cross-industry partnerships offer a creative workaround.

Cannabis businesses often look to industries such as fashion, food, and media for co-branding opportunities. For example, luxury brand Binske collaborated with LA-based fashion label L’equip to produce a limited-edition apparel line, while Cresco Labs’ brand Good News Cannabis launched a THC-infused wing sauce with celebrity chef Asia Mei during this year’s Super Bowl.

Marketing Wins But Also Marketing Risks

However, partnering with mainstream organizations comes with complications. Mitchell noted that after the Westword collaboration was announced, Meraki’s Instagram account was abruptly taken down — an all-too-common occurrence for cannabis brands navigating ever-shifting platform policies.

“We deal with this a lot,” Mitchell said. “Even when we publish our Best of Denver awards and include cannabis winners, some of those accounts end up getting shut down.”

Despite the risks, both media and cannabis companies continue to push for greater normalization and acceptance by linking their brands in creative and culture-forward ways.

What’s Inside: A Look at the Westword Joint Packs

The Westword-branded pre-rolls are designed to showcase both flavor and effect, blending Meraki’s high-quality cannabis flower with Mighty Melts’ artisanally crafted bubble hash. The result is a premium infused experience that appeals to both connoisseurs and new consumers looking for a memorable product.

The first run will feature three signature strain combinations:

• Golden Goat x Fizz: An uplifting, energizing hybrid ideal for social settings or creative activities.
• Grease Bucket x Black Maple: A potent blend offering strong effects — best reserved for seasoned consumers.
• Grape Mountain x Grape Mountain: A pure indulgence in flavor and relaxation, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.

Following the August 7 launch, the pre-rolls will be available in approximately 10 dispensaries across the Denver area.

Westword’s Ongoing Commitment to Cannabis Journalism and Advocacy

Beyond the product launch, Westword continues to provide one of the most robust cannabis media platforms in the state. From running full-page ads for dispensaries and product brands to publishing its “Ask a Stoner” column and maintaining a weekly cannabis events calendar, the publication has long treated cannabis as a serious — and necessary — part of Denver’s culture.

Even as the industry faces headwinds, including market saturation, price compression, and ongoing federal illegality, Westword remains committed to the sector.

“Cannabis has played a critical part in the business side of Westword,” Mitchell said. “It’s unfortunate to see the cannabis industry not doing as well as it was a few years ago, but it’s still a very important part of what we do — whether it’s editorial or ads.”

A Model for Future Cannabis Collaborations

The Meraki-Mighty Melts-Westword partnership illustrates what’s possible when local businesses think beyond traditional marketing models. In a highly regulated industry like cannabis, where advertising options are limited and consumer trust is everything, co-branded products with culturally relevant partners can create meaningful differentiation.

The collaboration also sends a message: cannabis is not on the fringe — it’s integrated into the cultural and economic heartbeat of communities. Whether through editorial coverage, events, or now even product lines, cannabis and media are finding new ways to support one another.