Kristina Lopez Adduci
To celebrate International Women’s Day, oHHo is shining a spotlight on women who have circled into our orbit, and made a lasting impression. Each oHHo muse dances to her own tune, transforming her passion into profit, and upending gender stereotypes as she goes. Prepare to be inspired…
Kristina Lopes Adduchi
is the founder of House of Puff, which leverages the power of art to make cannabis consumption chic and easy. They also produce inclusive, educational content that bridges the worlds of cannabis, art and social justice. Kristina divides her time between NY and CT, and lives with her husband and twin daughters.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It’s a time to reflect on the progress we’ve made in advancing the opportunities for women and girls, but also a time to recognize how far we still have to go. I want my daughters to grow up knowing that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to, and that they have the same opportunities as anyone else, regardless of their gender.
What inspired you to launch House of Puff?
I started consuming in my late 20s for health benefits, but I was faced with a dilemma: how could I incorporate this into my life while maintaining my style and aesthetic? I scoured the market for consumption devices that fit the bill, but to no avail. It was then that House of Puff emerged from the ashes of my own necessity, fueled by my passion for visual art. Through careful design and a creative approach, House of Puff has been able to bridge the gap between form and function, providing an elegant solution for those seeking a stylish and practical way to consume cannabis.
What career/personal challenges have you faced as a woman?
As a woman and a Latina in the cannabis industry, I've definitely faced some challenges. It can be tough to make connections and get funding in an industry that's historically been male-dominated. But I've always been a bit of a go-getter, so I've worked hard to build relationships and create my own support network. And honestly, I think being a woman and a Latina gives me a unique perspective that can be a real asset in this industry. I'm excited to be part of the movement to break down barriers and create more opportunities for women in cannabis.
If you could share a piece of advice with your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t get hung up on what you study. Your educational background doesn't limit your entrepreneurial potential. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and explore your interests, even if they don't seem directly related to your degree. Ultimately, it's your passion, drive, and creativity that will set you apart as an entrepreneur.
This year’s IWD theme is #embraceequity. How do you embrace equity in your role?
House of Puff seeks out and mentors individuals from underrepresented groups, and support initiatives that promote equity and social justice. We also prioritize diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our operations, from hiring practices to internal policies and decision-making processes. Gender equity, in particular, is an issue that is very important to me. Gender should never be a barrier to achieving success, and women should have the same opportunities as men to advance and thrive in the workplace.
In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge women face today?
As a doctor’s daughter, something my mother and I discuss a lot is the barriers to accessing healthcare and education due to poverty, cultural norms, and discrimination. She’s taught me a lot, specifically about how Black and Brown communities and often experience higher rates of poverty and lack of health insurance coverage, which can make accessing healthcare more difficult. Coupled with systemic racism and discrimination, it can make it harder for individuals from these communities to receive quality care.
What is your proudest achievement?
My dynamic duo that is my 4-year-old twin girls. Every day is an adventure, and they’ve taught me so much about patience, love, and what's truly important in life.
Can you share with us a woman to watch?
Kim Myles. She’s a multi-hyphenate designer and TV host, but she is also one of the most inspiring people I have had the pleasure of knowing. She has an eye for detail and a keen sense of style that infuses everything she touches with a unique and captivating energy. Watch her on Battle of the Bling on HGTV and you’ll see what I’m talking about.
Who is your greatest mentor/supporter?
I always say this in every interview, so no surprise to anyone who knows me, my mom. She has been my greatest mentor and supporter since day one. She has persevered through so much, and it’s had an immeasurable impact on my life. She’s always had this uncanny ability to believe in me, even when I'm not so sure myself.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Trust your instincts, they’re usually never wrong.
What’s the story behind your collaboration with oHHo?
When I met Nic it was magic at first sight. We both shared a passion for the plant through a luxe lens, and House of Puff valued oHHo’s commitment to sustainability and quality. That's how our collaboration was born. We combined our Pink Le Pipes with oHHo's top-quality flower to create a smoking experience like no other. The result was something truly magical - a perfect blend of style, quality, and flavor.
Quick Fire Round
Last thing you Googled?
How old Georgio Armani is
Last book you read?
Humor, Seriously: Why Humor Is a Secret Weapon in Business and Life, by Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas
Most-used app?
Instagram
Favorite oHHo product?
Dream Cream
Signature style in a sentence?
A blend of feminine elegance with modern sophistication, infused with the latest fashion-forward trends
Favorite daily ritual?
A hot shower
Guilty pleasure?
A vodka martini up with a twist, and watching Formula 1 racing
You never leave home without.
Aquaphor lip repair
Your life motto?
Life’s too short, order the truffle