Cigars Their Way: Zach Van Ginkel of Hermanos de Armas Cigars
Zach Van Ginkel’s cigar journey began in Des Moines, Iowa, when he was a teenager. After serving in the military and studying business, he and his partner, Andray McCuien, intended to open a cigar lounge, but COVID disrupted that plan. Instead, they shifted their focus to creating their own line of cigars, and Hermanos de […]
For Cigar People, by Cigar People: Rob Blumenthal and Tradecraft Cigars
Rob Blumenthal has been living the cigar life since he started working at his family’s store (Tinderbox) when he was fifteen. A true brother of the leaf, he comes from five generations of cigar aficionados. Now, Blumenthal is building his own legacy with Tradecraft Cigars. He talked to Cigar Life Guy about the most expensive […]
Living the “One Life” Mentality with Jason Wood of Outcast Cigars
Jason Wood, founder of Outcast Cigars, didn’t enter the cigar industry as an expert, a blender, or even a cigar smoker. He had never smoked a cigar until he began working at Miami Cigar with his father-in-law, Nestor Miranda. From there, he set out to learn every aspect of the business, from sales and customer […]
All for the Love of the Leaf: Aaron Paoletta of LaVega Cigars
Before joining the cigar industry, Aaron Paoletta did it all. He toured with his band, ran a record label, and cooked at Five Diamond resorts. Every experience helped prepare him to create his own cigar brand. Adam Paoletta, founder of LaVega Cigars, stays ready for whatever life throws his way. He spoke with Cigar Life […]
Out of this World: Don Emmanuel Cigars Honor The Spiritual Experience of Smoking Cigars
Don Emmanuel has been living the cigar life from a young age. As a Master Cigar Sommelier, he still holds the world record for the highest score, but when he launched his own cigar line, he was aiming for something close to a spiritual experience. Drawing inspiration from ancient Sumerian myths, Don Emmanuel reminds cigar smokers […]
Savoring the Experience: Stacey Bozeman of Smoked the Collection Brings Her Own Table to the Cigar World
Turning Cigar Labels Into Personal StyleWhen cigar smokers think of savoring their favorite blend, most think of smoking it. However, Stacey Bozeman has given a whole new meaning to the notion of “savoring a cigar”. Bozeman, the founder and owner of Smoked the Collection, has transformed the smoking experience into a fashion statement. From hat bands […]
Bachelor Parties Are Better with Cigars
The wedding pre-party industry is booming. These days, the bachelor and bachelorette parties can be more lavish than the wedding. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a simple night out with your wedding party, don’t leave the cigars at home. A great bachelor party should feel personal, relaxed, and memorable, and the right cigars […]
Boutique or not Boutique: Choosing Traditional Cigars or Independent Brands
When it comes to smoking traditional and boutique cigars, there are a few basic rules: Avoid talking about politics. Mind your ash. Don’t stub a cigar out like a cigarette. However, most experienced cigar smokers will tell you there aren’t many rules for choosing a premium cigar. With a few hundred brands to choose from, […]
Ali Howell of Brothers Smokin’ Stogies is “Sharing Joy and Peace” Through Cigars
Ali Howell was a brother of the leaf long before he co-owned Brothers Smokin’ Stogies with his wife, Heather. From his first smoke in the late 80s when he served in the Army, to his career in psychology, and now as a boutique cigar brand owner, cigars have been central to Howell’s life for over […]
Tying the Knot and Smoking Cigars: A Guide for Wedding Hosts and Guests
You don’t need an excuse or a special occasion to kick back with your favorite premium cigar, but there is something special about lighting up to celebrate one of life’s milestones. Whether you’re a bride, groom, or simply a guest, there’s nothing like sharing a cigar after tying the knot. Sure, non-smoking laws have made […]