Cigar Events Archives - Cigar Life Guy

Konscious Cigars and Kevin Brown: Exclusive Interview

Posted on July 19, 2023 by Staff

Kevin Brown entered the cigar industry by opening Tampa’s first Black-owned cigar lounge. He launched Konscious Cigars in 2019 and never looked back. Kevin talks about bringing his vision to life, diverse ownership, the Tampa scene, and igniting “Konsciousness” in the cigar world.

The First Premium Smoke

Cigar Life Guy: Tell me about your first premium cigar experience.

Kevin Brown: I can’t quite remember my first premium cigar. I remember when I smoked them and the people I learned with and from. So around 2008, when I started smoking cigars seriously, I would hang out at a lounge in Tampa called The Cigar Castle; this is where I learned the basics of cigar anatomy from my brothers like Ira, Tracy, and Squire. These guys provided a wealth of knowledge. As I kicked it there, I would learn so much from them and others like Dave and Dennis. At some point, we would order boxes of Cubans and various cigars. We discussed each blend as well as what to pair it with. I am greatly appreciative of this era of my life.

Konscious Cigars Beginnings

Cigar Life Guy: What did you do before you entered the cigar industry? How long have you been in the cigar industry, and tell us what drew you to the tobacco industry?

Kevin Brown: I have been a UPS employee since 1997. I went to technical school in 2000 and started my first business in the haircare industry in 2010. These were my accomplishments before I entered the cigar industry. I’ve been in the cigar industry since 2016. Several partners and I opened Tampa, Florida’s first Black-owned cigar lounge called Maduro Marauders Cigar Lounge; this was my entry into the cigar industry. People from all walks of life would stop by, and as I traveled to different cigar functions, I would meet industry folks, consumers, other lounge owners, and various industry entrepreneurs. In 2018, I traveled to Nicaragua and visited the Karen Berger factory to blend my first cigar, the Habano Robusto and Lancero. I officially launched Konscious Cigars in December 2019.

Cigar Life Guy: What are the biggest challenges you have faced as an upstart brand and in the tobacco industry?

Kevin Brown: My initial challenge was finding the proper business people to bring my visions to life. As an example, my logo is riddled with messages. The first few companies I contacted needed help putting my ideas together. I eventually found someone who could pull it off. So, I tell new band owners (if they ask for my advice) to search for what fits and feels right for their vision. Don’t let anyone talk you into something that doesn’t fit your spirit.

Once everything started to flow smoothly with Konscious Cigars, I was denied by a couple of lounges because my cigars were in bundles, not boxes. They made me feel as if I wasn’t professional enough without boxes. I couldn’t be a part of their lounge until I had them. So I leveled up and started creating boxes, and then I could jump that hurdle and not have that issue anymore.

Konscious Cigars and Embracing Diversity

Cigar Life Guy: As a Black-owned business, you said that representation is essential. How has the cigar industry embraced diverse lines from owners with diverse backgrounds?

Kevin Brown: From my perspective, I must say that many have embraced Konscious Cigars overall. And I’m sure that’s due to others from diverse or black backgrounds who have kicked the door in before I got here. I will always shout out folks like Karen Berger Cigars, Tres Linda’s, Epic, Gto, Carolina Blue, Black Star Line, Howard G, Drunk Chicken, Vorieo, and LA Viuda Negra Cigars.

Konscious Cigars: The Tampa Scene

Cigar Life Guy: What is the inspiration behind the name Konscious Cigars? What makes them unique, and how do you want the cigar world to view your line in terms of branding?

Kevin Brown: Coming from the Konscious “Kommunity,” I found it easy and inspirational to transfer that mindset to the name of my brand. Konscious Cigars are unique in their blend, and that’s flavorful, meaning you can notice and taste the notes correctly. They are not harsh or rough on the palate. You can make them “The Everyday Smoke.”

The Konscious Cigar brand is considered “Konsistent,” Premium, Quality tobacco. We pride ourselves on this.

Cigar Life Guy: You are from the Tampa area. What is the cigar scene like there, and how does it compare to other cities nationwide?

Kevin Brown: The Tampa scene is wonderful. We all will support each other until the wheels fall off! If you’re reading this and you’re not from here, come down to the Cigar Capital and witness our “Kulture.” We love to celebrate each other. It’s common to see lounge owners from Chaney Cigar and Loc’d on Cigar visiting each other’s lounges. Or the guys from Just Cooling Mobile Lounge are wearing a hat from Easy All Day Mobile Cigar Lounge. Or Off the Hook mobile lounger or Kress Apparel wearing a Brown Eyed tee shirt. They all hang out and support each other. I’ve seen this level of support in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Charleston. I would love to see it everywhere.

The Future and the Black Smoke Awards

Cigar Life Guy: Konscious Cigars was ranked number one as Cigar of the Year at the Black Smoke Awards 2022. What was that recognition like, and what is next for Konscious Cigars?

Kevin Brown: It feels awesome to be awarded the Cigar of the Year from Black Smoke two years in a row (2021 and 2022). I’m very humbled by it because people voted on it. It means a lot to be respected by your peers and those who purchase your products. So, thank you to Tobacco Kennedy, his vision, and everyone who voted and “kontinues“ to support Konscious Cigars. We truly thank you!

Cigar Life Guy: Have we missed anything? Please tell us anything else you’d like the cigar world to know.

Kevin Brown: Always check our website, Konsciouscigars.com (events) tab for event updates. We were delighted to be at PCA earlier this month.

On September 1, Konscious Cigars will be at Fire and Smoke in Baltimore, Maryland, doing a Kut & Light. Our Brand Ambassador, Keya Watts (@smokeybossqueen), will headline this event. Hope to see you there so you can ignite Your “Konscioussness” with us.

Follow Konscious Cigars on Instagram and check out the latest at Konsciouscigars.com.

Image credit: Konscious Cigars

Jamond Hackley Reveals the Secrets Behind Definition Cigars

Posted on July 6, 2023 by Staff

Someone who tasted their first cigar at age eight was bound to end up in the tobacco industry. Jamond Hackley of Definition Cigars, one of the good guys in the industry, talks about boutique lines making their name, the Dallas lounge scene, and individuals defining their experience.

Jamond Hackley’s First Cigar

Cigar Life Guy: Tell me about your first premium cigar experience.

Jamond Hackley: My first experience was with my grandfather at the ripe age of eight years old. He was an avid cigar and pipe enthusiast, and I took a puff off his cigar one night while watching Benny Hill. I didn’t enjoy my first experience. In my adult years, I picked up cigars because of being around him and his love for cigars and wanting to share that with him. So there was no big occasion; I just wanted to have my own experience with cigars.

Cigar Life Guy: What did you do before you entered the cigar industry? How long have you been in the cigar industry, and describe what makes it different from other businesses?

Jamond Hackley: I was and am still in the logistics industry. Definition Cigars is five years old. The industry is made up of a bunch of really great individuals overall. I didn’t come up with this saying, but I heard someone say it, and I agree with it, “while I love cigars, I love cigar people even more.”

Cigar Life Guy: What are the biggest challenges you have faced as an upstart brand and in the tobacco industry?

Jamond Hackley: Knocking down the thought that a small boutique brand cannot live up to the supply and demand of the brick-and-mortar stores.

The Story Behind Definition Cigars

Cigar Life Guy: What is the inspiration behind the name Definition Cigars? What makes them unique, and how do you want the cigar world to view your line in terms of branding?

Jamond Hackley: The inspiration states that the individual defines their experience. To avoid getting caught up in what has been commonplace with cigars. Be different. Stand out, and describe your journey. The cigar culture should view the company as one that supports and provides cigars that support the cigar culture in identifying their own Definition. We hope you do it with a Definition Cigar.

Dallas Cigar Culture

Cigar Life Guy: You are headquartered in Dallas. What is the cigar scene like there? How is it different from other cities around the country?

Jamond Hackley: The cigar scene in Dallas is great. A great deal of experience in and around the shops. An emphasis on understanding what makes a cigar great. Its setting is different because most of your journey in Dallas will be at a lounge.

Cigar Life Guy: You have expanded to the Esteli Region of Nicaragua. Describe your relationships with the blenders and growers.

Jamond Hackley: The relationships continue to grow, and new relationships are on the horizon. The brand recognition in the market has allowed for doors to open to have conversations that will enable the brand to have market sustainability for years to come.

Jamon Hackley on Cigar Events

Cigar Life Guy: Definition is active as a sponsor of large events or “cigar weeks,” we’ve seen a proliferation of them post-COVID. What would you tell a cigar smoker considering attending a large event that has never attended?

Jamond Hackley: I would ask them if they are going for some education in some form or if they will have a good time. Nothing wrong with either, but that should be identified before attending. I look for things at the event that align with the core competencies of Definition Cigar.

Follow Jamond on Instagram and check out the latest from Definition Cigars here .

Photo credit: Definition Cigars

Interview: Cigar Mike Bennett

Posted on April 26, 2023 by Staff

You don’t get a nickname like “Cigar Mike” by being a novice. As a cigar consultant, event coordinator, and aficionado of all things cigars, Mike Bennett has been an ambassador for the cigar life for 26 years. With nearly 1000 events under his belt, his legend is building. Bennett lives to his name and talks about smoking as an experience, looking for maniacs in the industry, and creating all the elements of a successful cigar event.

Cigar Mike Bennett’s First Premium Smoke

Cigar Life Guy: Tell me about your first premium cigar experience.

Cigar Mike Bennett: I was at a buddy’s place; it was springtime. There were four of us. It was a double-date situation. We were hanging out, and my first premium cigar was a Don Tomas. So Don Tomas was my first foray into smoking premiums and just smoking, period.

I think I enjoyed the experience maybe a little bit more than I enjoyed smoking the cigar. It just continued from there. I started smoking occasionally. Then I found more occasions to smoke, and then bam, I smoke every day.

Cigar Mike Bennett: The Nickname

Cigar Life Guy: A straightforward and authoritative nickname like “Cigar Mike” must be well-earned. So how did you get it?

Cigar Mike Bennett: Well, I smoke a lot. That’s one way. The other way is I do a lot of cigar events. At one point, I was doing 110 events a year just working inside the industry.

But I actually got the name from a buddy of mine, Cedric Ward. I was hanging out at a cigar spot and introducing myself, and Cedric said: “Man, that’s Cigar Mike; you want to know something about cigars, ask him.” So we joked it off. And a week or so later, we were in a completely different spot with another set of people, and I was talking, and guys were like, “Oh, that’s Cigar Mike.” From there, it took on a life of its own. So someone heard it in the first spot, and then it took on a life of its own.

The trouble is living up to it (laughs). But I’m pretty good at that.

Mike Bennett: Cigar Ambassador

Cigar Life Guy: You are an ambassador for the cigar life. What do people who don’t smoke cigars not understand about cigars and the cigar lifestyle?

Cigar Mike Bennett: That’s an excellent question. The first thing is the misconception that it’s an old man thing. That you have to be 50 to smoke a cigar. I’m 51, and I’ve been smoking for 26 years. I started when I was 25, and it was a peculiar space because 25-year-olds were looking at me like, “What the hell are you doing?” And 45-year-olds were looking at me like, “What the hell are you doing?” (laughs).

I realized it was a microcosmic environment that people not in this world don’t completely understand. Once in the cigar world, it was like, ok, I’m a kid, and I’d get, “Look at the young fellow.” But there was a lot of information that was given. Guys asking, “Have you ever had this?” Or “Do you want to try this?”

We’re a welcoming world once you decide to be a part of it. But, unlike other worlds, we don’t solicit and encourage. Instead, we don’t go out and say, “Hey, Smoke Cigars. You’ll have a great life as we do.”

No. If you want to smoke cigars, then sit the hell down and light one up and let’s talk about it. That’s a big thing. We don’t care if you don’t understand; it’s if you want to understand.

Finding the “Maniacs”

Cigar Life Guy: You work with many new and up-and-coming brands. What do you look for in a brand to work with? And what advice would you give to someone considering launching a new business in the cigar space?

Cigar Mike Bennett: I look for maniacs. You’ve got to be a maniac to be in this space. You must be a function of pure passion and really want to be here. That’s what I am looking for. I ask myself, is this guy or young lady really committed? They’re really committed to doing this because you’re not gonna make a lot of money upfront.

You don’t jump into this business and become Rocky Patel or Pete Johnson. An overnight sensation in the cigar business takes about five years! That’s how long it takes for people to know who you are. So I look for people who really want to put in the work. I didn’t have a car when I was doing 110 events a year. Instead, I was catching the bus to my events, cabs, or Uber. If you’re unwilling to put in that, then it’s not much of a conversation. The fly by night: “I’m gonna be in the cigar business?” I wish you luck, but there’s really nothing I can do.

The Hustle

Cigar Life Guy: You have lived the cigar life for over 25 years, and your hustle is legendary. How many events do you think you’ve done? And how has it changed over the years?

Cigar Mike Bennett: I’ve been doing events for fifteen years. If I had to guess, I would say over 500, less than 1000. I would do some stuff every week — weekly and monthly events and everything in between. Events change, I don’t want to say dramatically. The numbers have grown.

I make it a point not to change my business model because I always want to be welcoming to somebody new to smoking but still endear the event to everyday smokers. These guys have been smoking for three, 10, and 15 years. So I want to be that common ground where everybody can exist and still get information. I call it cigar entertainment. I want you to be educated and entertained.

You don’t need someone saying, “This is this” or “That is that.” Nobody wants to sit in a classroom, and very few people want to take that class(laughs). But it speaks a little better if you’re having fun and you pick up on this information. That way, it’s manageable. So you come here, and it’s not, “I’m gonna get all this information.” If you want to sit and smoke a cigar. So be it. You give people fun facts, and they can do more research on that if they wish.

It’s the same thing with spirits. I like merging the cigar and spirits world. Because they do go together. Whiskeys and cigars. Cocktails and cigars. I try to bring in different elements. I’m actually doing an event with the owners of Greenwood Whiskey later today. They’re gonna be hanging out with me at a cigar lounge, and we’ll be sampling the whiskey with a cigar. Which is great — to have a whiskey you’ve never tried before and maybe a cigar you’ve never tried before. And the experience ties it all together.

The fun of it is in the journey. When people decide they want to be a part of the cigar life. You’re around people who are typically highly educated from all walks of life. A trash collector is sitting next to a CEO; they’re best friends. This is one of the sole environments where that happens daily. But, hey, we’re all here to smoke cigars. I don’t care what kind of watch you have. And I don’t care what type of cigar you smoke.

Fellowship means a lot because people leave their daily grind and want to kick back, spend ten or fifteen dollars on a cigar, and light it up. You want to enjoy that while avoiding talking about work. Be a regular person in a chair enjoying a cigar. You want to be around people you enjoy because if not, you can go home and smoke in your garage.

Endearing Customers to a City

Cigar Life Guy: Over the last few years, there has been an influx of new cigar events with varying degrees of success. What are some of these new entrants or promoters doing well? What are they missing or getting wrong?

Cigar Mike Bennett: They’re really going above and beyond entertaining their customers — anything from comedy shows, concerts, and events taking place during their cigar week for their city. That’s great. I’m not opposed to it but I don’t want to see River Dancing (laughs). I’ve watched it on YouTube occasionally. It’s interesting, but people are doing things and want to do something to endear people to their city.

I was in Houston, and they had a Scarface concert. What better representation of Houston, Texas, than Scarface? I’ve been on boat rides that were part of events from the National Harbor. Different things attach people to their city. And that’s what I like. So I go to New York for a New York state of mind, and I go to Miami for a Miami state of mind. So I want to do what people who live in that city like to do. Because if they’re enjoying themselves, consequently, I’ll enjoy myself.

I really enjoy being part of a lot of events. For some reason, people like me and trust me to entertain their crowds. And I’m really appreciative of that as well.

Signature Event Expectations

Cigar Life Guy: What should people expect at your signature event, the 2023 Atlanta Cigar Experience?

Cigar Mike Bennett: Honestly? Tomfoolery. Foolishness. A great deal of smoking and copious amounts of beverage consumption. We stuff 17 events in seven days, and foolishly, this year, we added a golf tournament — so 18 events in seven days. I want you to have as much fun as possible in my city. Literally, from noon every day till three in the morning, I got you. There’s something to do. No matter what time that plane lands, there is something to do. I want people to have a good time, enjoy themselves, go home, and return next year.

Follow Cigar Mike on Instagram and check the latest on the Atlanta Cigar Experience.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Is Your Cigar Event Host Hotel a Good Deal?

Posted on June 19, 2022 by Staff

One common feature of larger, multi-day cigar events is promotion of hotel properties, often called “host hotels,” where attendees are encouraged to stay. Host hotels run the gamut as far as pricing is concerned. There’s also a broad range of how well integrated and coordinated host hotels are into the other aspects of the cigar event programming, too. However, you must decide whether you should stay at a particular host hotel. That decision often depends the value the host hotel offers, your budget, and your objectives during the trip.

Why you Should Stay at the Cigar Event Host Hotel

When done well, staying in a host hotel can be a wonderful compliment to your cigar experience. Depending on the deal, the price for your room may be comparable to or more reasonable than similar rooms in the area. Besides that, the hotel may serve as a kind of “home base” for event things:

Event check-in
On-site registration
A departure for shuttles to remote event locations
An event representative to answer questions and welcome attendees

The host hotel may also play host to similar, smaller organized mini events, like “Coffee & Cigars” in the morning. It also might offer an unorganized, impromptu destination for the “after party” in the wee hours of the morning! You also can informally run into, visit with, and meet other cigar smoking attendees while on the property. If your host hotel is going to be highly integrated with the activities of the larger event, you might justify staying there even if the rate is significantly higher than other alternatives.

Why you Shouldn’t Stay at the Cigar Event Host Hotel

Simply put, why you shouldn’t stay at a host hotel follows the opposite of why you should. If the price is substantially higher than other acceptable alternatives and there is little to no coordination with the overall event, you’re less likely to buckle down and open your wallet for a room. A property that doesn’t know what group you were with does little to impress. You could have stayed at another property a mile down the road without it making any difference in your experience. If that’s the case, then it probably makes no sense to stay at the host hotel either, even if you have a group booking code.

Is the Cigar Event Group Rate a Good Deal?

Group hotel rates for cigar events work no different from any other group rate for lodging. Whether it represents a good deal depends on several factors.

Supply and demand for rooms in the area during that time period
How good of a deal your event promoter negotiates
How much of the group savings is passed to you
How much of the savings is retained by the event promoter

It is a perfectly legal and normal practice in group travel to offer free rooms or a commission to the event organizer. The more freebies the organizer requires gives the hotel property less room to work with in offering paying cigar event customers competitive rates. While you won’t easily be able to see what your promoter negotiated, you can check an online travel site or your favorite hotel chain’s website and compare properties, amenities and perks. You will probably find a cheaper alternative at a budget establishment. That said, if you don’t need all the fancy amenities of a high-end property, that’s okay, too. That leaves you with more money for cigars at the event!

Find Your Cigar Venues on a Map

It’s a good practice to use a map and identify the general area where the events you are planning to attend will be located. You might even preview drive times. Cigar event venues at multi-day events are increasingly becoming more spread out. Don’t automatically assume the host hotel was specially selected for its overall proximity to the events. Often, it is simply where the promoter got the best deal.

Look around and do your own homework first. You might find something more proximate to your events on your own. This is where perks like shuttles from a host hotel to remote events may tip the scale in favor of the host hotel. Checking a map should also help inform your decision on whether you’ll need a car during your stay, too. Multiple, long taxi or ride share bills can add up fast. Remember, many hotels charge for parking in large city centers with fees that can easily set you back by $50 or more per night. It’s also worth clarifying whether the group rate at the host hotel offers complimentary or reduced fee parking.

Why Stay Somewhere Else, Regardless of Price

Many veteran event attendees prefer to stay away from the hustle and bustle of host hotels — even great host hotels. They know they are looking at six to 12 hours of organized cigar smoking events a day and they just want a little “me time” during the rest of the day. Veteran attendees prefer moving quickly around the hotel lobby without stopping to chat with fellow attendees. You also might combine your passion for cigars with something else on your trip. Depending on the location, you might visit the beach or another tourist attraction. If that’s the case, staying away from the host hotel makes the most logistical sense.

Host Hotels, a Final Word

Ultimately, do what makes the most sense for you, period. Unless you know the host hotel is extremely well coordinated with the overall cigar event, it’s worth doing your homework to compare other options. If things are close, particularly if you’re a first time attendee, lean in to the host hotel. At a minimum, it might be a good way to make new friends.

*Editors note: This is geared towards able-bodied, experienced travelers within the domestic United States. It is advised to rely more heavily on event-organized lodging and ground transportation when traveling abroad or in remote areas.

Photo Credit: Cigar Life Guy

Quality Cigars Take Time: The Cigar Supply Chain

Posted on June 5, 2022 by Staff

COVID-19 slammed the supply chain, and the cigar industry was no exception. Life is getting back to normal. Cigar Life Guy and most of you are back at cigar events, but the supply chain continues to lag. Many cigar smokers are still wondering where their favorite cigars are. The delay is all for good reasons and much of it is the growing and manufacturing processes. Getting quality cigars from the factories, onto the shelves, and into your hand is careful and complex.

Handcrafted Quality Cigars

Quality cigars are made the same way they were over 100 years ago. Tobacco is handpicked, then cigars are hand-rolled. The process requires skilled laborers and the careful cultivation of tobacco leaves.

Tobacco plants need time to grow, and after harvesting, time to cure and ferment. Understanding this process goes a long way toward understanding how the supply chain can slow. It also goes a long way to appreciate the premium quality of the next cigar you light.

The growing season typically begins in September. By January, plants mature and it’s time to “prime” them. Priming removes the leaves needed for curing and for transforming into cigars later.

The Construction of a Quality Cigar

There are three parts to every cigar: filler, binder, and an exterior wrapper. These are often different tobaccos from different sections of the tobacco plant. Cigar manufacturers use volado, or leaves from the lower section of the plant for filler. Since they receive less sun, they are smaller and produce a subtler milder flavor.

The seco leaves are from the midsection of the plant. They are slightly larger than the volado and with less flavor. Seco leaves also serve as fill and sometimes also as the binder.

The ligero or upper part of a tobacco plant receives the most amount of sunlight. These larger leaves provide the strongest flavors, so growers use them for a cigar’s exterior wrapper. Torn or imperfect ligeros often serve as binders.

When you hear aficionados discuss a cigar’s “balance,” they are referring to how these components create a cigar’s distinct taste. Even though most flavor derives from the exterior wrapper, the binder and fill are vital to a cigar’s character. Master blenders develop unique combinations after the tobacco cures, ferments, and they remove leaves from stalks.

The Waiting Game

Once harvested, growers hang the leaves in barns to dry and cure. The curing process removes chlorophyll and the leaves take on the familiar brown and yellow hues seen in your favorite cigars.

The fermenting process takes even longer. Sometimes the process can take years. Once fermented, growers divide the leaves into fillers, binders, and wrappers and tie them into bundles. Then, the cigars are left to ferment. Fermentation and aging allow the tobacco’s flavor and aroma to mature. The longer tobacco ferments the higher the quality results. This happens before a single cigar is rolled.

Careful Craftsmanship: Stripping, Rolling, and Wrapping

After curing and fermenting, skilled workers must carefully remove the middle vein of the leaf. Next, the rolling process begins. The filler and binder come first, followed by the exterior wrapper. Manufacturers inspect cigars for uniformity of size and imperfections, then box them according to shade differences. Despite the sophisticated process, true cigar lovers should expect nothing less.

In the early days of the pandemic, government shutdowns and factory shutdowns slowed production in countries like Honduras and Nicaragua. Many workers were laid off and have yet to return. Combined with the shipping and logistics problems that are facing all industries, the return to normal continues to be slow.

Quality Cigars are Worth the Wait

Quality cigar making is an art, and like any art it takes time. The recent spike in cigar demand, bolstered by internet sales and new smokers, put a strain on supply in the past couple of years. Yet, cigar makers have not rushed production or sacrificed quality. Aficionados and purists know that there are plenty of brands to choose from. Like enjoying a top-shelf cigar, there’s no sense rushing it.

Photo Credit: Cigar Life Guy

Life Insurance for Cigar Smokers: Your Top 10 Questions

Posted on May 1, 2022 by Staff

Cigar Life Guy® is celebrating its third anniversary and over the last three years we’ve helped a ton of regular cigar smokers get life insurance at non-tobacco rates, often a 70% savings vs. smoker rates! Over the last few years, we’ve also gotten tons of questions. Here are some of the most frequent questions (and answers) about life insurance for cigar smokers.

Does it really work? Can I really get non-tobacco rates on life insurance even if I smoke cigars every day?

Yes! It really works. Our whole business is built upon getting regular cigar smokers the non-tobacco rates on life insurance. We know it can seem too good to be true. Many clients are skeptical until we come back with a final, formal offer from the insurance carrier. Usually, clients are so excited they sign the paperwork and accept the offer within hours of learning they were approved at non-tobacco rates! To get the non-tobacco rates, there are four essential things you must do.

Disclose your cigar use on the application
Not also smoke cigarettes or vape
Be otherwise healthy enough to qualify for life insurance
Apply with the right company (Cigar Life Guy helps you do this)

I applied with another company and ended up with smoker rates! Can I apply with you and get non-tobacco rates?

Yes! We fix “issues” with other application processes all the time. Even if another company gave you smoker or tobacco rates, as long as you follow our instructions and fully disclose your cigar use on the initial application, you can get non-tobacco rates with one of our companies.

Do I have to take a medical exam to get non-tobacco rates on life insurance?

We have life insurance options that most cigar smokers will qualify for that will not require a medical exam. Often this is a more expensive option but for some people the convenience of not having to take an exam is worth it.

It is possible the exam will be waived even with companies offering the best prices, but it depends on your answers to the application’s health questions. That said, we advise people who want the best possible price to prepare to take an exam if asked.

The good news is the life insurance exam is typically fairly simple: someone comes to your home or office, or you can visit a facility in your area. They take a blood sample, a urine sample, blood pressure reading, and record your height and weight.

Can I still get non-tobacco rates on life insurance even if I use marijuana and smoke cigars?

Absolutely! Underwriting for marijuana use is increasingly becoming less restrictive. If you use marijuana and smoke cigars, you can still get non-tobacco rates in most cases.

Like any other application, insurers look at your overall health and lifestyle. It’s very important that you disclose the marijuana use along with cigar use on the initial application. It’s equally important that you tell us about both during our initial consultation so we can place you with the company most favorable to you.

Can I have more than one life insurance policy?

Yes, you can have multiple life insurance policies. You qualify for life insurance as an individual based on your income or net worth, but typically your income. The amount you qualify for will vary with your age and the company that writes your policy.

Most people qualify for much more insurance than they are interested in purchasing. You will need to disclose the policies you already have at the time of your application. The life insurance company will consider how the policy you are applying for will affect the total amount of coverage you’ll have.

Why can’t I just lie and say I don’t smoke cigars on the application and stop smoking cigars for a few weeks so I can pass the life insurance exam and get non-tobacco rates?

Ignoring the moral and ethical issues associated with lying, it’s never a good idea to be anything but truthful on a life insurance application. It’s possible to potentially “game” the system and get your policy approved, but any less than truthful answers (nice way of saying “lies”) may cause problems if there is a claim (that is, you die).

Life insurance companies scrutinize claims more closely than initial applications. Is there an electronic paper trail (like social media) of your cigar use? Do you work in an occupation (like at a cigar store or for a cigar brand) where it is unlikely you don’t regularly smoke cigars? Does your doctor know you smoke cigars? These are a few things to consider before selecting the less than truthful approach.

The whole idea of life insurance is to give you peace of mind if something goes wrong. How much peace of mind will you have if you’re loved ones have a problem with a death claim because you played fast and loose with the truth? There is a legitimate way to get non-tobacco rates as regular cigar smoker where you fully disclose your cigar use on the application. Doing so gives you and your loved ones a peace of mind knowing you’ve eliminated claims issues associated with your cigar use.

I got a policy with non-tobacco rates before I started smoking cigars. Is that policy still valid?

Yes, it is! A life insurance application is evaluated based upon your point-in-time answers to health and lifestyle questions. It is very likely your health and lifestyle will change. For example, just as you may have started smoking cigars after you got the life insurance, you may also start flying a plane, commit a felony, or have a heart attack or other health ailment. As long as you were truthful about your health and lifestyle at the time of application, your policy will be fine.

My friend got some Cigar Life Guy stuff at an event. How do I get Cigar Life Guy stuff?

Cigar Life Guy apparel is available online. All proceeds go to Operation: Cigars for Warriors, Cigar Life Guy’s official cigar charity. Most of the swag at events is limited edition, event-only items, and are usually given away free at designated events. The best way to get Cigar Life Guy swag is to go to an event where Cigar Life Guy has a presence. We have a great time at events and smoke a lot of cigars. It’s also a great way to meet other cigar smokers from near and far.

How come every page of your website has a form for life insurance quotes? I’m tired of seeing all your ads for life insurance on your website!

Hey, everybody’s gotta eat! The life insurance brokerage is the only “advertiser” that Cigar Life Guy has. So, yes, when you’re reading a cigar lifestyle article on the website there will be a quote form for the life insurance. Compare us to your other favorite cigar lifestyle site. Frankly, we think we’re one of the lowest frequency ad sites of any cigar lifestyle website around. We don’t have affiliate programs or promote other people’s products for compensation, disclosed or undisclosed.

Do you really smoke cigars?

Yes. Lots of them. A big part of the brand’s success is its authenticity. Find us at an event or private message us on social media and discover which local lounge in Atlanta we’ll be smoking at today!

If you have other questions, call us, private message us on social media, or email dave@cigarlifeguy.com.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Cigar Life Guy 2022 Cigar Events

Posted on January 16, 2022 by Staff

Each year, large cigar events are an integral part of the cigar culture. They give aficionados the opportunity to gather with hundreds and sometimes thousands of fellow cigar lovers for a day or a week to socialize over a few smokes. Additionally, they also combine cigars, food, drink, music, great scenery, and fellowship, creating “must do” events for many cigar enthusiasts across the country. For the third straight year, Cigar Life Guy™ plans on having a strong event presence with a table or booth and plenty of swag giveaways at many top events. It’s time to get your calendar out and plan which of these top 2022 cigar events you will attend.

Cigar Life Guy: 2022 Cigar Events Schedule

The last few years have brought a proliferation of large cigar events varying in size, scope, and theme. It is not practical to attend them all, so have a look at the carefully curated few events Cigar Life Guy will be a big part of:

January 26-28

Tobacco Plus Expo (TPE)

Las Vegas, NV*

February 16-20

Black Smoke Miami

Miami, FL

May 12-15

Charleston Smoke Out

Charleston, SC

May 24-29

Houston Cigar Week

Houston, TX

June 25

Cigar Life Guy 3^rd Anniversary Party

Atlanta, GA – Life N Times Cigar Lounge

July 8-12

Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show

Las Vegas, NV*

August 12-13

Boutique Cigar Festival – Smoke at the Creek

Martinsville, IN (near Indianapolis)

Labor Day Weekend (TBD) (CANCELLED)

C.A.T.S. Festival

Outside Dallas, TX

September 19-25

Atlanta Cigar Experience

Atlanta, GA

November (TBD)

Cigar Mike Las Vegas Takeover

Las Vegas, NV

December 4

Cigar Heritage Festival

Tampa, FL

*Business-to-business events are not open to the general public. Cigar Life Guy will participate as a media member.

This schedule is subject to change. Questions can be directed to dave@cigarlifeguy.com.

What You Can Expect at Events

Check out the event website or social media listings for additional information and any changes in schedule. Some events are open to free public admission with no ticket or RSVP required. Others are ticketed – some with free tickets and others with a ticket charge. If you’re interested in a ticketed event, act soon. Many events sell out in advance with no onsite sales available.

Legendary cigar personality Cigar Mike has dubbed Cigar Life Guy as “The Swag King” for the quality and creativity of the free branded items Cigar Life Guy gives out to event participants. So, expect plenty of energy and great swag from Cigar Life Guy.

Seating availability varies by event. If you’re concerned about getting a good seat, arrive early.

Do not confuse a VIP ticket with having a reserved seat or section unless your ticket is specifically sold as reserved seating. Many frustrated event attendees have made that mistake and ended up standing.

Cash is still king, so bring some. While most vendors accept credit cards, others might not. Also, cash may be the only form of payment accepted for your valet or parking lot.

Bring some cigars with you. You never know when you might need them. Depending on the event (particularly if at a lounge), good cigar etiquette may dictate that you patronize the house humidor. It is always good to support on-site cigar vendors.

You’ll often find more relaxed restrictions on outside cigars, particularly if it is a paid event, so plan on bringing a few extra cigars with you for these, too.

You never know when the check-out line from the humidor is prohibitively long, or you want to gift something specific to a friend. Also, you might simply like to save a little money and smoke something you already paid for.

The Final Word

Finally, don’t worry about rolling solo! One of the great things about the cigar culture is it is very friendly. It’s also typically easy to strike up conversation with other aficionados, even if you aren’t the outgoing type. You won’t be the only one who didn’t bring a crew with you, so come on out and make some new friends!

Make your plans now to hit some great 2022 cigar events! If you see Cigar Life Guy, stop by and say hi!

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy

Atlanta Cigar Experience 2021 Highlights

Posted on September 30, 2021 by Staff

Cigar Life Guy was pleased to once again be a lead sponsor for Cigar Mike’s Atlanta Cigar Experience in and around Atlanta, Georgia, September 20-26, 2021. Several hundred cigar enthusiasts from around the country and the world descended on Atlanta to mix with local smokers across at least fifteen venues throughout the week. We’re going to break it all down to give you a taste of what the smoke was all about, and it begins with Cigar Mike Bennett. So, sit back, light up and read on.

“Cigar Mike” Bennett

The weeklong series of events of the Atlanta Cigar Experience is the brainchild of twenty-five-year cigar industry veteran Mike Bennett. Yet, Bennett is affectionately known simply as “Cigar Mike.” Bennett reflected on the week, “Atlanta is special to me since it’s my hometown. I felt so much love seeing my friends — old and new, visit. I was just thrilled everyone had a great time again this year.” Cigar Mike regularly hosts large gatherings of cigar lovers across the country. Notably, he will have his second annual “Cigar Mike Vegas Takeover” in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 4-7, 2021.

Up next, Black Smoke Magazine hosted its official release party to mark the publication’s debut.

Black Smoke Magazine Release Party

Stanley’s Cigar Lounge, a new lounge in town, was the lucky venue that held the most noteworthy party of the week. In fact, local entrepreneur and owner, Monica Coleman, opened the doors to this venue just this month. The event marked the official release for the inaugural issue of Black Smoke Magazine. Additionally, the debut cover featured Atlanta cigar icon Christine Morgan and BSM owner Kennedy Achille. You might also know Achille simply as “TK”. Regardless, we’ve rounded up over 35 great images of this event and linked them here for your viewing pleasure.

Besides Christine and TK, countless other industry personalities made the pilgrimage to Atlanta for the week’s festivities as well. In fact, even the legendary Boston Jimmie joined the fun. So, make sure you check out his recap as well. Finally, there were also more cigar companies, brand owners, manufacturer representatives and store owners than you could count. So, if you’ve never been to the Atlanta Cigar Experience and you’re going to be in the area next year, consider adding it to your calendar. Speaking of, let’s dive into what the Atlanta Cigar Experience entails.

Atlanta Cigar Experience Featured Events

The event kickoff began on Monday at the Cigar City Club in Sandy Springs. The kickoff event is mostly for locals. Yet, the party brought together many shop owners and representatives, too. In fact, anyone in the area who could get away on a typically slow Monday showed up for the event.

Tuesday was day two and turned into a complete street takeover of Main Street in Lithonia. There were parties held indoors and outdoors at the local crowd favorite, Life N Times Cigar Lounge. The lounge offers a selection of coffee, wine and spirits, and favorite boutique cigars to patrons. So, stopping here for a smoke is always a must.

The prerelease announcement party for ATL Cigar Co.’s new line extension “Magic,” arrived on day three of the event. That was on Wednesday, of course. The prerelease announcement was made at Atlantucky Brewery in Downtown, which is also a great place to grab a craft brew. The brewery also carries a local favorite you’ll want to try: Kentucky Mudd chocolate milk stout.

Thursday was day four of the Atlanta Cigar Experience. It also marked the day for the aforementioned Black Smoke Magazine Party in at Stanley’s Cigar Lounge in South Fulton. So, everyone headed over to join the festivities and enjoy a good stick.

On Friday afternoon, we headed over to the Quick Shot gun range near Buckhead. Guests spent time on the range popping off a few rounds for fun. After that, there was a barbecue buffet featuring Barbeque & Smoke sauces and related items. It was enough to make your mouth water. After the wild afternoon on the range, everyone enjoyed an exquisite evening at the Davidoff of Geneva store in Buckhead. Unfortunately, if you didn’t make it to the Atlanta Cigar Experience this year, you’ll miss out on the Davidoff store in the future. The store is closing its Atlanta location at the end of the year and will be missed. Not to worry, though, there are still plenty of other venues to pique your interest and enjoy a good smoke and fellowship at.

Saturday started with a bang. There was a day party takeover at Cam Newton’s Fellaship Lounge in Downtown. After that, event patrons enjoyed the evening at The Patio Social Club in Smyrna before wrapping up the sixth evening of the experience.

Sunday was the final day of the Atlanta Cigar Experience and with it came a finale any cigar enthusiast can appreciate. The finale was at King’s Cigar Lounge and featured all the NFL games on big screens and more barbecue. King’s is just a short Uber ride to the airport. So, cigar enthusiasts returning home can have a final smoke or three before catching their return flights.

Besides the featured evening parties, each afternoon of the Atlanta Cigar Experience included an organized “pop-up” event at a local shop or lounge. The pop-up events are a great way for cigar enthusiasts to mingle in a laid-back environment and check out a local cigar shop or lounge they’ve never visited.

Giving Back: Cigars for Warriors Fundraiser

Giving back and providing opportunities for others to giveback is always a staple of Cigar Mike events. One example for this year was Cigar Life Guy’s “Cigars Just Taste Better in Atlanta” T-shirt promotion. Atlanta Cigar Experience guests received a gift of a fun shirt showcasing Atlanta when they made a donation to Operation: Cigars for Warriors. Shirts were also available at retail partner Highland Cigar Co. and several pop-up events in the weeks leading up to the event. Cigars for Warriors is a 501 (c)(3) charity that has received over $2,000 donated so far. It uses these funds to send cigars to U.S. troops deployed overseas.

What Patrons Said About Atlanta Cigar Experience

When asked what they thought of the Atlanta Cigar Experience, guests had much to say.

“A.C.E. is an annual event for me. I enjoy seeing my extended cigar family. My [personal] quote is ‘That’s why you don’t have no friends…we have family!!!’ Thanks for the Family Reunion, Mike” – Kevin Watkins, Founder, Black Cigar Aficionados.

“The Atlanta Cigar Experience captured the true essence of what the cigar lifestyle is all about! As always, Cigar Mike was the ultimate ambassador to a great week of fellowship” – Reggie Kimble, Stickmen Blog.

“The Atlanta Cigar Experience hosted by Cigar Mike, was a true celebration of the cigar lifestyle, the appreciation of cigar lounges and small business owners who are a part of the lifestyle. It was an honor for Barbeque and Smoke to be a part of an amazing week full of events. We look forward to working with Cigar Mike and his team in the future and are always glad to return to Atlanta, GA” — Mac Bostic, Owner, Barbeque and Smoke.

“Atlanta Cigar Experience is an event I plan to never miss. Cigar Mike makes sure to create an experience like no other. I love the different vibes in the venues. I came last year for the first time knowing my Mom was gonna be gone when I got back. So it’s also my getaway and how I celebrate her leaving this earth with fellowship and enjoying others in the cigar culture” — Calvin “King Hollywood” Jenkins, Owner of Luxe Cigar Lounge in South Carolina.

“You can always count on Cigar Mike to put on a great Atlanta Cigar Experience. I believe much of that is due to his passion for premium cigars and his love for his hometown. Our industry is fortunate to have someone like Mike Bennett” — Eddie Tarazona, Owner, Tarazona Cigars.

“The Cigar Mike experience is always really exciting. You never what you’re going to experience and what to expect. Mike is an experience in his own way. Everything is always tailored to the people and for the people who travel from any distance to be there” – Akbar Alam, manager of Fellaship, an exclusive lounge and restaurant in Atlanta.

“Everywhere you went, you could see and feel Mike’s advocacy for the industry and small business. Cigar Mike is good for both the cigar industry and culture” — Greg Willis, a partner of Emperors Cut Cigars.

“Cigar Mike has an amazing network of people that we were so excited to host at Stanley’s. His connection to the pulse of the cigar community is unmatched” — Monica Coleman, Owner, Stanley’s Cigar Lounge.

“Mike is the host of all hosts! The vibe and events were great” — Mr. SODO in Houston.

“Tuesday night was an amazing experience at Life N Times Cigar Lounge Block Party. Truly enjoyed all the cigar enthusiasts from all sides of the country come together to celebrate Atlanta Cigar Experience 2021, hosted by Cigar Mike. It was a true cigar event that featured vendors, bourbon, cigar sponsors, and music that honored the Atlanta cigar industry” – M.J. Smith, Owner of Life N Times Cigar & Coffee.

“My trip to Atlanta from New Jersey was truly worth it! Mike was a great host. It really was an Atlanta Cigar Mike Experience!” — Donnell Isaac, Silverback Cigar Crew.

“There are days when I stand in awe of Cigar Mike. Though his schedule is often hectic, he is always seems to be in the moment, enjoying the company of whoever is in his presence. This ability is truly a remarkable skill, and I am honored to learn it from a great man” – Leroy Lamar, President, ATL Cigar Co.

That’s a Wrap

The Atlanta Cigar Experience is an annual event, traditionally held the fourth week of September. Look for coming details about the 2022 Atlanta Cigar Experience event and then mark your calendar.

Photo credit: All images are credited to Cigar Life Guy except for Akbar Alam, which is credited to Instagram.com/aalam.

The Fear of Missing Out Hits Cigar Events

Posted on May 23, 2021 by Staff

For many of us in the cigar community, we’re getting back to large-scale cigar events after a horrible break called COVID, which is fantastic. Not only are we getting back to events, but it isn’t just you, there are more of them than ever. Of course, social media makes everything look better than it really is. Put it all together, you’ve got a lot of fifty-year-old cigar smokers suffering from FOMO the same way their kids or grandkids do over whatever kids do these days.

What is FOMO?

FOMO is an acronym for “fear of missing out.” Verywellmind.com defines the fear of missing out as, “the feeling or perception that others are having more fun, living better lives, or experiencing better things than you are. It involves a deep sense of envy and affects self-esteem. It is also often exacerbated by social media like Instagram and Facebook.” This is a real thing. The best way to describe it for many folks is remembering when you were in high school or college and you literally thought you needed to go out every weekend night or couldn’t miss a party? That was FOMO.

There Are More Large Cigar Events Than Ever

It used to be there were only a handful of the large events or herfs. You may be familiar with established names like Cigar Heritage Festival, Big Smoke, the Drew Estate Barnsmokers, Black Smoke Miami, and Atlanta Cigar Week just to name a few. This year there are new or relaunched large events in Charleston, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, Memphis, Philadelphia, Orlando, Chicago, and Washington D.C. and this isn’t a complete list. Almost every major metro area now has its version of “Cigar Week.” Cigar Mike and I joke about “McDonough Cigar Week” being a reality sometime soon. (McDonough is a nice small city 20 miles south of Atlanta that really doesn’t need a cigar week)

Frankly, the advent of more, large cigar events is great. Some are more successful, better run, or more popular than others. That’s the natural course of things. Yet, on the whole, having more events that are more accessible to even more cigar smokers is a net positive.

Now You Can’t Be Everywhere

There are so many events now, that even the most engaged cigar smoker can’t be everywhere. In fact, often events are held simultaneously. Most of us, whether we’re consumers or event sponsors, have practical constraints like time and money. We have to start prioritizing events. Ask yourself questions. Which cigar events are most important to us? Location and practicality play a vital role, too. So, which ones are the most practical to attend? After all, if you’re not up for a road trip, then finding something close to home is a win.

Finally, you’ll also want to consider how the event is run. Not all events are run, set up, or deliver what every cigar enthusiast wants or needs. Find common ground that aligns with your desires or goals – what you hope to gain from the event. Which events are the most likely to be well run and deliver on what you want? Sometimes that means you need to get good at saying, “No,” even to cigar events. Declining an event doesn’t mean you don’t support the event. Instead, wish your BOTL/SOTL a successful event. It also doesn’t that you’ll never attend that particular event. It just means that this year, it doesn’t work for you. Be okay with that conversation.

Social Media drives FOMO related to Cigar Events

Let’s face it: social media isn’t reality. Everything looks great on social media. I’ve been to many mediocre events that look incredible online, but the reality turns out much different. No, I’m not going to mention names. We all have a good time at cigar events. If we didn’t we wouldn’t keep coming back. When you check your Facebook or IG at 11 pm on a Saturday, remember what you see at your local Cigar Week event isn’t always 100% reality. Your friends who are posting from there will still be your friends next week when they return. If they’re really good friends, they might even bring a cigar for you! But they’ll still be your friends and you’ll still be able to join them at the next cigar event.

Photo credit: Cigar Life Guy