ENTERTAIN + EDUCATE. Evolution Health + Wellness (2600 London Rd., Eau Claire) will continue its mission to inform its customers on new happenings in the world of CBD and hemp, with new events rooted in community. This past year, events at the retailer included improv comedy and live music – where attendees could also try and purchase Evolution's CBD products (pictured).

Evolution Health + Wellness's (2600 London Rd., Eau Claire) owners and staff welcome the opportunity to provide guiding resources on its hemp and CBD products.

Luckily for Chippewa Valley customers, the business’s educational entry points include interactive events rooted in community and, yes, even comedy.

In the past year, the area business hosted two individualized events, tailored to both inform and entertain regulars and curious folks who sought to find connection through shared interests.

“Comedy and Cannabis,” a collaboration between Evolution Health + Wellness and GoodSetsComedy, featured local comedians and improv performers for a night of podcast-style sets tied to community and wellness topics. 

The space also hosted “Evolving Sounds. Music. Meaning. Mixers” – an evening of acoustic music paired with Evolution’s CBD drink selections. Area musicians in attendance included Kathryn Ryan, Jade Sales, Rylee Lynn, among others.

Kait Pittman, general manager at Evolution Health + Wellness, said local consumers deserve access to safe, balanced and responsibly-sourced products – accompanied by appropriate education. All the while, she acknowledges the ever-present need to create space for community members to gather and support one another.

“We see so many of our community members and provide them relief in so many ways,” Pittman said. “But sometimes, laughter – or just having some way to be entertained – is the best medicine that we (can) offer.”

Pittman’s favorite memories of the previous events at Evolution Health + Wellness were when she looked out to see a room full of strangers and friends coming together – coupled with the shared laughter from attendees, performers and herself included.

“It's less about what the event entails and just seeing that joy brought to our employees and our customers' faces,” Pittman said. “I think that there's a lot to be said for putting more joy out in the world.”

Looking to the new year ahead, events will be planned based on what customers and community members are interested in. Pittman teased at the return of music and comedy nights, acknowledging their previous success at the hemp storefront.

Ultimately, the goal remains to offer a space for folks to share their talents, allow customers to get to know the team behind the business and offer additional ways to spotlight Evolution Health + Wellness’ retail offerings.

Evolution Health + Wellness (2600 London Rd., Eau Claire) is open seven days a week with events previously hosted from 7-9pm on Saturdays. For updates and new announcements for upcoming happenings at the CBD retailer, visit its Facebook page (@EvolutionHW).