Women Archives - Cigar Life Guy

Leonor Abzaradel Shares the Nova Cigars Story

Posted on November 5, 2024 by Staff

Leonor Abzaradel worked in the wine business for a time, so transitioning to another luxury industry like the cigar world wasn’t difficult. Known as “Leo” in the cigar business, the CEO of Nova Cigars, shared her first cigar with her father and has been living the cigar life ever since. She talked to Cigar Life Guy about the inner peace that can be found when smoking a cigar, using only the finest tobacco, and the joy of people coming together to smoke a cigar.

First Premium Cigar Experience

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

Leonor Abzaradel: My first cigar was with my father when he visited me in New York. My father was an avid cigar smoker, so I took him to Club Macanudo to enjoy his first cigar in NYC. Looking around I couldn’t help but notice that everyone seemed to enjoy their cigars very much, so I decided to light up as well and I had a great time, full of joy and inner peace.

Drawn to The Cigar World

Cigar Life Guy: What drew you to the cigar world?

Leonor Abzaradel: The enjoyment I had with my father and the inner peace. Being surrounded by people from all around the world, being able to disconnect from reality by simply just enjoying a cigar in a relaxed atmosphere made me feel like I want to learn more about the cigars and the cigar industry. That moment opened my mind to new ideas and new opportunities that I wanted to explore.

Cigar Life Guy: What do you want the cigar world to know about your legacy, tradition, and its connection to Nova Cigars?

Leonor Abzaradel: I create my own legacy by following my heart and tradition. After many years in the cigar industry, I decided to take a step further in my career. This is when I joined the Platinum Nova cigar as CEO to continue my growth in this beautiful industry. Platinum Nova Cigar was a brand-new company and I wanted to grow bigger with this new brand name and put all my experience and love into it.

The Nova Portfolio

Cigar Life Guy: Tell us a bit about the Nova Portfolio.

Leonor Abzaradel: In 2019 we launched Platinum Nova Cigar at IPCPR (PCA) with 6 lines of limited edition and 8 regular productions. Nova uses only long-leaf premium tobacco but what distinguished the limited-edition lines from the rest, was the age of the tobacco, which was older than 10 years. We had enough to produce only 500 boxes of each limited-edition line and once they are off the shelves we won’t be able to replicate these amazing vitolas. In the few years since the public debut, Nova’s portfolio has continued to grow and its catalog encompasses 26 lines covering a full range of sizes and flavor profiles.

Cigar Life Guy: Your line is described as ultra-premium and vintage. How do you want consumers to perceive your brand?

Leonor Abzaradel: How do we want our consumers to perceive the brand? We want our consumers to know that we only use the finest premium tobacco available on the market. Our products are formulated without any synthetic ingredients, and we do not cut corners on anything because we do not want to jeopardize the quality of our products. We are beyond happy and proud of what we have accomplished and all the products we have on the market.

Challenges in the Cigar Industry

Cigar Life Guy: What is the biggest challenge facing the cigar industry today?

Leonor Abzaradel: The challenges will always be the same. Make sure there is enough tobacco on the market to support the manufacturing. The cigar industry has been overregulated worldwide, and that is something that we have to learn and adapt to on a regular basis, so we can be in compliance with the law.

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

Leonor Abzaradel: I don’t think we missed anything. I am enjoying watching the cigar world come together closer and closer to serve the consumer and the new cigar smoker generation by producing different vitolas, blends, and sizes.

Follow Leo and Nova Cigars on Instagram and check out the latest from the Nova portfolio here.

Photo credit: Nova Cigars

HERficionado® Octavia Toliver Talks Finding Community in Cigars

Posted on September 1, 2024 by Staff

Octavia Toliver, founder of Atlanta Cigar Week, CEO of HERficionado, and a true Sister of the Leaf (SOTL), has lived the cigar lifestyle for nearly two decades. She is as passionate about cigars as she is about curating cigar events and building a welcoming and comfortable community for women in the industry. She talked with Cigar Life Guy about the warmth of the cigar environment, being herself, and making the Atlanta Cigar Week better and better with each passing year.

Octavia Toliver: First Premium Cigar

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

Octavia Toliver: It was around 16 or 17 years ago. I visited a cigar lounge on a first (and last!) [laughs] date. Initially, the smoke was overwhelming, and I wasn’t even sure why we were there. But, as we spent more time there, I began to feel the warmth of the environment. He helped me choose a cigar, probably something flavored, and the ambiance slowly won me over! It was a surprisingly pleasant experience, and I wanted to explore more without him! (laughs) So I did!

Cigar Life Guy: What drew you to the cigar culture, and what are your favorite aspects of the cigar community?

Octavia Toliver: What really pulled me in was the elegance and the deep sense of tradition that comes with cigar smoking. I became fascinated with the rituals and the rich history. But the beginning of my journey was a bit lonely because I didn’t feel the sense of community that we have now. That is why I started curating events. I wanted that sense of community, which is now one of my favorite aspects of the culture. Most SOTLs and BOTLs are incredibly welcoming. My network is filled with heartfelt connections with people as passionate as I am about cigars, spirits, and everything the lifestyle encompasses!

Women in the Cigar Industry

Cigar Life Guy: Women in the cigar industry are often overlooked. What advice would you give to women entering the industry and women who smoke cigars?

Octavia Toliver: Be yourself. Don’t try to fit into the mold of the boys’ club. We women have our own strengths and superpowers. Embrace them, as this is what will set you apart! I always encourage the women in the industry to have no fear of trying new things and to keep their dignity and integrity intact. One last thing: it is easy for women to feel the need to compete with the next woman. I encourage them to fight that urge and to collaborate instead! We go much further together than apart!

Octavia Toliver: Cigar Industry Challenges

Cigar Life Guy: What is your biggest challenge in the cigar industry?

Octavia Toliver: Early on, the biggest challenge was proving that I belonged here. It hurt when some people questioned my knowledge or right to be part of this community. But over time, I realized their doubts had nothing to do with me. It was the limiting beliefs of others about what a SOTL was supposed to look like or how we should do things. This shift in mindset was truly transformative for me. After years of dedication and achieving significant milestones in the cigar community, I’ve come to a deep, unshakable recognition of my own worth and contributions. I know without a doubt that I’ve earned my place here. Now, the opinions of those who might doubt my credibility don’t carry weight anymore. I stand confident in my experience and my achievements.

HERficionado: A Female Friendly Network

Cigar Life Guy: You are the founder and CEO of HERficionado. Tell us about the female-friendly cigar network and why it’s essential to have a platform exclusively for female smokers.

Octavia Toliver: Women face different trials and joys within the cigar culture. When I first started HERficionado®, and She Smokes Too®, it was to give us a safe space to share those things lovingly and comfortably! I didn’t have that available to me when I began my journey. Despite much progress in the industry, SOTLs still encounter specific challenges and microaggressions that are unique to our experiences.

Women must have a place where they feel truly seen and heard, where our unique experiences in the cigar world can be celebrated and cherished. I have always been a part of that side of the culture. I love my guys, but I’m a true girl’s girl!

Octavia Toliver: Atlanta Cigar Week

Cigar Life Guy: You are the founder of Atlanta Cigar Week and an event curator. What goes into making a cigar event great?

Octavia Toliver: A great cigar event starts with a creative idea! What sets your event apart from the hundreds of other events nationwide? Atlanta Cigar Week® was created out of thin air. There was no blueprint of what to do nor what NOT to do. We put our ideas on paper and iterate each year to make it better and better. With each passing year, we are figuring out ways to create a new experience for our guests. It’s one of the things that makes the Atlanta market so unique; there are always new venues opening in addition to the 100+ preexisting cigar lounges and shops. However, event organizers need to take advantage of the resources at their fingertips and highlight what’s unique about their market.

Cigar Life Guy: What are you looking forward to most at this year’s Atlanta Cigar Week?

Octavia Toliver: It’s the people, always. Atlanta Cigar Week® feels like a big family reunion. We catch up, we share stories, we laugh—a lot. And I love seeing friends from across the country who mark this week on their calendars yearly. It’s extraordinary.

Follow Octavia on Instagram and check out the latest for Atlanta Cigar Week and HERficionado.

Photo credit: HERficionado

Holly Primc’s Wild Ride in the Cigar Game

Posted on August 5, 2024 by Staff

Holly Primc, owner of Crown Majesty Cigars, “knows her shit.” The former teacher and Certified Cigar Sommelier has been living the cigar life long enough to know she still loves learning. She talked to Cigar Life Guy about how cigars are the perfect blend of her two favorite things, how cigar memes get it wrong, and how she plans to grow her brand one cigar lounge at a time.

Holly Primc’s First Premium Cigar Experience

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

Holly Primc: I can honestly tell you I can’t answer that question simply because I don’t remember (laughs). So, I apologize. I wouldn’t be able to even try. I can tell you this: I’ve been smoking cigars — premium cigars, let me be careful there — regularly for eleven or twelve years. Beyond that, at least another decade where I was smoking once in a while.

I became serious about five years ago. When I say serious, it was really about not just smoking once a week but learning, reading, teaching myself, and getting my hands on everything I could to learn about cigars. So, I don’t have a specific cigar that stuck in my brain or made me say, “Ok, this is it for life.” It was just the smell of cigar smoke. I knew I’d be doing it forever.

Chemistry and Cigars

Cigar Life Guy: You are a Certified Cigar Commelier. Explain the process, what attracted you to the cigar world, and how you started.

Holly Primc: As a sommelier, that was one more step to take because I had my own brand. If that makes sense, I wanted to have the education to back up my brand.

To be honest, being a woman in the cigar industry is a little more challenging. I don’t mind because I love a challenge. But for me, having that certification made me more comfortable. “Yes, I’m a female. Yes, I’m a cigar brand owner. And yes, I know my shit!” (laughs)

Also, I am absolutely in love with education. I love educating myself. I love learning. Every day, I want to learn something new. Recently, I applied — I have yet to start the course — but I will become an official cigar sommelier. So, it’s not just the certified tobacconist sommelier but an actual cigar sommelier. I’m excited about that.

From Chemistry and Biology to Cigar Life

Cigar Life Guy: Your background is in chemistry and biology. How does that help inform your work in the tobacco industry?

Holly Primc: I used to be a teacher, but I did have a career before teaching, and that’s always been in the chemistry science field. As a teacher, I loved implementing the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) mentality — so having art and science meld perfectly. It wasn’t just that, but it was also engaging my students.

Teachers would walk by my class, and my students were dying laughing all the time. Every week, this would happen because we were having fun. That’s what life is all about. It’s about learning and having fun. I apologize for the rambling; there is a reason.

When I look at the cigar industry, it dawned on me one day when I did the Perdomo tour that cigars perfectly blend science and art. It’s all about the flavor profiles and understanding what mixes with what flavor-wise, but you have to know the leaves and the soil. You have to know where it’s being grown and the amount of light and the amount of water. That’s all science. So it’s a perfect mix of my two favorite things. I love that I get to be a part of that.

Holly Primc: Launching Crown Majesty Portfolio

Cigar Life Guy: You launched your company in 2021. Walk us through some of the cigars in your portfolio.

Holly Primc: Absolutely. So, initially, when I started, I had just the four blends. I did everything theme-wise. Of course, I’m Crown Majesty Cigars, so I have the King, the Queen, the Prince, and the Knight.

My goal for my cigars was to have great flavor and phenomenal transitions between each third. One of the keys for me was to keep the Ligero low for obvious reasons, the high nicotine. I just can’t do nicotine. So I found a blender willing to work with me and say, “Yeah, we can stay away from the Ligero; It’s not a problem,” and to work with me through the entire flavor profile. It has been a phenomenal experience.

Now I have five blends. My goal is to have a cigar for every palate. You can tell me, “I love the light-to-medium cigars, and I really like this sort of flavor profile,” I would immediately go to my Prince and Duke. My Prince is a Connecticut shade. My Duke is a Sumatran. They have amazing flavors. That was something I had to have for my brand. Then I have a full body that I do. It’s a San Andres. Then I have a medium-bodied Habano and a Cameroon.

The Cigar Family

Cigar Life Guy: What is your favorite aspect of the cigar community?

Holly Primc: The family. One hundred percent. I don’t even have to think about that. Being able to walk into any lounge feels like I’m home. It doesn’t matter what lounge I’m in. I always feel like I’m home. Some of the more modern “nightclub-ish” lounges may not be home for me, but pretty much all of the rest(laughs).

I love that I can start a conversation with anyone in that room, and they will engage. We’ll talk cigars, and we’ll talk about life. Again, it’s a learning thing for me. I always learn something when I’m talking to people because of cigars.

Cigars are the easiest way to mix an incredibly different mix of humans. They all have one major commonality — cigars. So that’s another thing I love. I love my cigar family. They’re life. They’re everything to me.

Holly Primc on Cigar Industry Challenges

Cigar Life Guy: What is the cigar industry’s biggest challenge today?

Holly Primc: Politics. Excuse me, let’s try that again — politicians (laughs). It’s a mix of a few things, in my opinion.

We have little to no scientific studies done. We have no long-term scientific studies done. But we have politicians saying, “Oh, these are terrible for you because everything else you smoke is terrible for you.“ I just look at them and think, do you know what a scientific study is? Do you know that we don’t have any? I mean no long-term studies, at least to my knowledge. I’ve checked. I check every couple of months to see if anything else has been done.

The problem with ignorance and science is that they believe that simply by smoking, you’re going to hurt yourself in some way via health. I get so frustrated by that because I don’t think that ignorance and science should be making decisions for my life or anyone else’s life in our country. Their ignorance certainly shouldn’t be making the laws that affect me.

I am not throwing all politicians in the ignorant bucket. I apologize if it sounds that way. That’s not my goal, but the lack of science and the ignorant ideologies are a lethal combination to the cigar industry.

Women in the Cigar Industry

Cigar Life Guy: Women in the cigar industry are sometimes overlooked. What advice would you give to women entering the industry and women who smoke cigars?

Holly Primc: Just be yourself. I had a conversation with a friend last night about this exact same thing. It’s about being authentic. Don’t allow anyone to intimidate you. No matter where you go. No matter what you do. Be your true self. Be true to the industry. Always show support, even when it might not be perfect, and support what you can.

I have smoked so many cigars that sometimes I ask, “Wow, how did this get out to the market?“ And then, I quickly remind myself, “Holly, this is your palate. Just because you love a medium to full and you don’t like nicotine doesn’t mean everyone feels the same.“

Every cigar you smoke is going to need to meet your palate. Honestly, not all cigars are going to be good. So, of course, I hold relatively tight to the adage, “Life is too short to smoke shitty cigars.“

We’ll do just fine for women since we are the third fastest-growing group getting into the cigar industry. The more women I talk to and try to quit smoking, the more positivity that I hear. I love that. In fact, I just got a job at my local lounge here in Punta Gorda, and I’m loving it. I feel like when I go to work, I go home.

I’m also part of a women’s group on Facebook. They mentioned doing a book club and needing a venue. I said, “If you’re interested, we have a cigar lounge.“ Now, we’re going to be hosting a women’s book club. So those are just little ways to get women more involved.

My goal as a tobacconist sommelier is to teach them so that they can feel confident. I have talked to women who say, “The only real reason I haven’t tried cigars is because I was so intimidated when I walked into a lounge.“ And I am like, “Girl, let me help you out. Let me teach you everything I know.”

It’s beautiful because we are getting bigger and bigger in the industry. Our money matters. I see anti-female memes all the time. The “My wife takes all the money and only gives me this much for cigars har har har.” I see them almost daily in the cigar industry. So, I tend to politely call that out because it’s my job to fight for the women in our industry.

I will say this: men need to be more supportive of more women joining the industry. They need to pay attention to what they’re putting out there, and they need to pay attention to the fact that we make and spend money.

Women have knowledge and the ability to read and to learn. We are a huge part of this industry. so, the more men that respect and accept us and acknowledge that we matter, the better. That’s a big part of it.

The irony is that in my house, it’s the opposite! My husband always tells me, “Holly, you don’t need any more cigars!“ (laughs). So I look at those memes and think that’s ironic.

Looking Ahead with Holly Primc

Cigar Life Guy: What else can we expect from Crown Majesty Cigars?

Holly Primc: It’s about growing the brand. I’m taking things slowly, mainly because of the move. We took about two months to move, which is pretty insane.

I want to start getting into lounges. Right now, it’s so easy for me to sell directly to consumers, especially where I was living in Central Florida. I was doing events at least twice a month. Now that I’m in Southwest Florida, it’s a completely different ball of wax. I’m trying to find my way here. They don’t have the same event schedules, and they don’t do the same things they do in Central Florida, where I’m from.

I am figuring out a better way to sell directly to consumers. Of course, I have my website, crownmajesty.com. I also want to beef up social media and get into more lounges. So, once I get everything settled here, the plan is lounge, lounge, and more lounge.

Follow Holly on Instagram and check out the latest from Crown Majesty Cigars here.

Photo credit: Holly Primc

The Cigar Scandal That Made Headlines

Posted on August 16, 2022 by Staff

It’s been nearly 25 years since the Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky cigar scandal made headlines. Plenty of presidents have been known for extramarital affairs. Most of the public assumed John F. Kennedy’s connection to Marilyn Monroe was more than mere friendship. The lurid details remained as guarded as state secrets until Clinton’s dalliance in the late 90s. The internet age had just begun when the forty-second president’s affair and all the sensational details -as we would say today- went viral.

Cigars were making headlines throughout the decade, and one of Clinton’s cigars would become the focal point of one of the more infamous episodes of the American presidency.

The Cigar Scandal

Clinton’s alleged affair with Gennifer Flowers might have nearly cost him the election in 1992. His encounters with Lewinsky nearly cost him the presidency.

In late 1997, when news broke that Clinton had a sexual relationship with a White House intern, Clinton was already well into his second term. He was riding high with more than a 50% approval rating. Ironically, his approval rating would boost by over 6 points amid the cigar scandal.

Ken Starr, the independent counsel, was already hounding Clinton on matters related to real estate investments and other White House controversies. However, the sexual nature of the Lewinsky scandal would overshadow it all.

In January 1998, Clinton famously denied any sexual relations with “that woman” and Lewinsky initially refused to testify. However, upon the suggestion of friend Linda Tripp, she had saved a piece of evidence that would prove vital: the now famous semen-stained blue dress.

By the summer of 1998, the story heated again. It didn’t take long for the sordid details to come out. We may never know whether they were all factual, but after Starr granted Lewinsky immunity, she agreed to testify. Clinton would admit to a grand jury that his relationship with Lewinsky was “physical” and “improper” and redefine what constituted “sexual” relations.

By December, Clinton would be charged with perjury and obstruction of justice and become the second president in United States history to be impeached.

The Incident

The blue dress is perhaps the most famous evidence, but running a close second was Clinton’s cigar. His love for cigars is almost as well-known as his love for women.

Lewinsky testified she had nine sexual encounters with Clinton from 1995 to 1997. As the story goes, the 49-year-old Clinton used a cigar in a sex act with the 23-year-old intern. The specifics have varied over the years, but you don’t need too much imagination. According to some reports, Lewinsky never testified to the events. The story endures in American history and cigar lore.

Hillary would not allow smoking in the White House, but he smoked when he had the time, particularly on the golf course. During his time in office, Clinton was a “chewer”. According to Lewinsky, Clinton was chewing on a cigar before one of their encounters. She went on record saying, “…I looked at the cigar and I looked at him and said we can do that, too, sometime.” The innuendo was clear, and the rest is history.

The cigar in question was allegedly a Gurkha, a brand the former president still prefers. Clinton smoked their traditional lines but upgraded to Gurkha’s His Majesty Reserve line. Priced at more than $1,000 each, it is a considerable upgrade!

Lewinsky has Tweeted about indulging in an occasional cigarette, but she has never admitted to smoking premium cigars despite her role in the notorious cigar scandal. She did, however, gift the president a silver tabletop cigar holder.

Cigar Scandal Aftermath

In the end, the Senate acquitted Clinton of all charges. He wrote his memoirs and has a lucrative career as a public speaker. Clinton has also appeared at many Democratic Conventions and was a loyal and vocal supporter of his wife Hillary’s political ambitions, including her presidential run in 2016.

History has not been too kind to him. As the “#MeToo” movement took hold following the election of Donald Trump, the public began to look at “Monicagate” through a new lens. Although Lewinsky maintains that the relationship was consensual, Clinton’s role took on a predatory tone.

In recent years, Clinton has largely stayed out of the limelight. At 75, he is a shadow of his former self and makes news for brief hospital stays and bouts of illness. However, he is still often seen smoking a fine cigar.

Lewinsky has gradually altered her image. Following the cigar scandal, she became a pop culture celebrity. After years of public shaming, opinion began to sway in Lewinsky’s favor. She has dabbled in a variety of projects over the years. She has been a spokesperson for Jenny Craig Diet and Weight Loss Centers, designed handbags, and hosted Saturday Night Live. These days, when she isn’t getting into Twitter spats with Beyonce, Lewinsky is producing movies and touring the country as an anti-bullying advocate.

She has also written about her relationship with Clinton several times. Now 49, her most recent endeavor was co-producing a season of FX’s television series American Crime Story: Impeachment. The series traces her time at the White House and Clinton’s subsequent impeachment.

It’s hard to imagine how a story like the Clinton-Lewinsky cigar scandal would play out today. In the social media era, there seems to be a new scandal every hour. Perhaps that’s why this presidential fling has lasting power. It came before the era of cultural fragmentation and the blitz of media outlets. The entire country and most of the world watched as the story unraveled. It may seem tame by some of today’s standards, but it is a lasting legacy of the early internet age.

Photo credit: Pixabay

Six Things Your Cigar Bartenders Wish You Knew

Posted on August 22, 2021 by Staff

The cigars are only one aspect of the experience at the cigar lounge. By and large the cigar bartender at your local cigar bar appreciate the job they have, certainly relative to other bar gigs. Yet, there are a few things you as a patron ought to know. So, we reached out to the community of cigar bar staff to get the scoop from their perspective. Here’s what your cigar bartenders wish you knew:

Cigar Bartenders Work for Tips

Like other bartenders and servers, most of our incomes come from tips. The hourly wages we get won’t cover our Uber rides or childcare for our shifts. But we like working in cigar bars. On whole, cigar folks are good tippers, relative to other places we work. That’s a big reason for us to stick around.

Some cigar folks can do better, though. We’re talking about some members or a regulars who receive many freebies such as coffee, soft drinks, or etc., or who don’t purchase from the humidor, often as a result of membership fees. Cigar bartenders still must serve you even though we didn’t get paid on your annual membership. Throw us a little something now and then or don’t tip as a percentage of your check. If you’re here all afternoon and buy a coffee, we might refill your cup six times. But when it comes time to pay, even 50 percent on your $3 check is way light for the service we provided.

Also, we genuinely appreciate small gifts, like the gift of a cigar from your personal humidor. But that cigar doesn’t pay our bills. It’s better to tip appropriately. Then, if you want to give us something in addition to that, it’s perfectly fine.

Cigar bartenders are also realistic. We understand when you purchase a box of cigars or make a large purchase out of the humidor and pay via one credit card tab. If that tab is co-mingled with your small bar tab, we don’t necessarily expect you to tip 20 to 25 percent of the entire tab. Of course, if you do then we certainly won’t complain either.

Cigar Bartenders Don’t Want to Date You

You want to date us, too? Seriously, guy! You’ve probably got kids older than us! Besides, we’re more than likely married or seeing someone. Just because we’re not wearing a ring or talking about our significant other doesn’t mean we’re on the market. And even if we were, you aren’t what we’re looking for. Yes, we’re attractive. Yes, we might be dressed somewhat provocatively. We might also flirt with you a little or are happy to see you. But we also work for tips. That doesn’t give you a license to be a creep.

Bartenders and Servers Talk About You

Ever wonder whether secret conversations about you are happening among us? They are, but that’s usually a good thing, not a bad thing. If you’re a creep or an awful tipper, then we’ll tell other staff members and probably a few of the regulars. We’re not priests, doctors or lawyers. There is no such thing as cigar bartender or smoker confidentiality. Alternatively, if you’re a good guy or gal, then we’ll share that informally with the rest of the staff and our favorite regulars, too. This is kind of news enhances your status within the bar, though.

You may not realize that we refer business all the time, but we do. In fact, you’d be amazed how many referrals we give. We consider it a win-win. If you’re a business professional and a cigar bar regular, then let me know what you do once we’ve become acquainted. Don’t do it in an obnoxious way, though. We’ll choose who to refer you to and if it’s appropriate. Of course, if you don’t make a positive impact on us, that referral opportunity will probably not happen. You’d be amazed how many conversations in the bar we take part of. People are always looking for referrals.

Don’t Be a Seat Hopper

One of the great things about the bar is that it is informal with open seating. Don’t abuse it. We understand that you might move seats occasionally. We also understand that you might want to talk with a friend who’s visited. The problem is every time you get up, that’s a seating area we must clean. That’s particularly now that we live in the COVID-19 era. Now, our work also involves sanitizing seating areas for the next person. Some regulars dirty half a dozen seats within a two-hour span and it drives us nuts!

Cigar Bartenders Not an Expert on Cigars

Are cigar bartenders also cigar experts? Maybe, but the odds are that we don’t even smoke cigars! We’re bartenders, not a tobacconists. We might not even know the difference between a Corona and a Connecticut. And we certainly might not know that a cigar can be a Corona as well as a Connecticut. Unless you know differently, we’re probably not the one to geek out with about minute cigar details. Stick to regular bar room conversations with us like sports, current events or etc. If you want to talk cigars then everyone else in the bar is probably a better candidate than us. There is one expectation, though. We won’t complain about the smoke or cigar smokers in general. If we didn’t want to be around smoke we wouldn’t be working here.

Know What Time It Is When We Interact

Part of our job as a bartender, even if it is unwritten, is chopping it up with you and other regulars. In fact, that’s one of the best parts of working in a cigar bar. The cigar crowd is usually a joy to be around and we learn a lot about life from you. You might not know this, though, because we haven’t said as much. Some of your suggestions and advice benefit us greatly in our personal lives and sometimes even our non-bartending professional endeavors. We grow as individuals from some of the smokers we meet this place.

Hard stop, though: When we’re slammed with work, our job is to make drinks, not be your conversation companion. Look around and read the room. Read our body language. Then, let us do our job get those drinks out! We had a great chat an hour ago, but it’s prime time now.

As a side note, if you’re here watching the big game and you know you want to leave as soon as it’s over, clear your tab in the middle of the fourth quarter. We go through this every Saturday and Sunday. You know it and we know it. Everyone wants to close out tabs at the same time. If you don’t want to wait, then close out early so you’re free to leave sooner.

Hopefully all of this was helpful. Be good to us and we’ll be better to you. We really do appreciate you and your patronage. Additionally, we also realize that customers like you pay our bills. We just ask that you treat us with the same respect we offer you. We can’t wait to see you again tomorrow.

The Final Word

Working as a cigar bartended isn’t always easy, as you can see. In fact, sometimes it’s downright challenging. Cigar Life Guy has had the priviledge of speaking with many cigar bartenders to gather this important information for you. Not only does this advice help your friendly bartenders, it also helps you, as a cigar enthusiast, elevate your status while visiting your favorite cigar lounge. If you’re new to cigar lifestyle, then might not know the conversations and other things that go on behind the scenes of the cigar bar. We hope you enjoyed this post. More importantly, we hope you’ve gleaned something valuable to level up your cigar lifestyle.

This blog reflects conversations with many bartenders in cigar bars who wished to remain anonymous. It includes some generalizations as well. Certainly, some bartenders are true cigar aficionados and love the leaf more than anyone in the room. You might also find a bartender who wants to date you, but good luck. Regardless, don’t be a creep, but do enjoy cigar lifestyle.

Photo credit: Unsplash

Is a Custom Cigar Poker For You?

Posted on April 4, 2021 by Staff

If you’ve ever visited a cigar lounge or cigar event, you’ve probably seen a cigar poker or “nubber.” They kind of resemble a dart or a needle. Some cigar smokers attach them to the nub of the cigar to smoke that last little bit. Cigar pokers range widely in style and price. Yet, many are more art than a cigar accessory. Despite no real market sales data, the popularity of cigar pokers is accelerating.

Cigar Life Guy caught up with Robin Blue of BlueSmokeATL, a leading maker of custom cigar pokers. If you’ve ever considered getting a cigar poker, keep reading. Robin shares what you should look for when shopping for a cigar poker.

What is a Cigar Poker?

Cigar Life Guy (CLG): What is a cigar poker? What are they used for?

Robin Blue (RB): A cigar poker is a cigar accessory that serves two purposes. First, a cigar poker serves as a nubber allowing you to enjoy cigars to the very end without burning or staining your fingers. Second, you can gently slide them into the top of the cigar to loosen the tobacco. They improve the overall draw from your cigar.

CLG: I imagine they are made from a wide variety of materials?

RB: Cigar pokers are made from a variety of materials ranging from beads to glass to gemstones. There are also various levels of quality that define the overall look, feel, and durability of your poker.

Manufactured vs. Handmade Cigar Pokers

CLG: One way to segment the market is by how they are manufactured. There are mass-produced and custom, or bespoke, pokers made individually, correct? What are the key differences between the two types?

RB: Very true. Manufactured pokers typically have very few unique options and a lot of the same designs. What they lack in originality you can save in overall cost. The items adorned on the pokers are not as carefully curated and are usually bought in bulk quantities. The durability is shorter than a quality, luxury, handmade poker.

Handmade crafters select each part of their process. It’s more creative and unique since a business makes each one. The quality standards are higher since someone with a love for craft started the business. It also shows their sense of pride. Handmade cigar pokers can be customized for a personal impact on the consumer. For this reason, handmade pokers are usually more expensive than manufactured ones. Yet, they are also more durable and long-lasting.

CLG: Even within the bespoke segment of cigar pokers, there are many differences in how they are made. Correct?

RB: In the bespoke poker segment, there are several factors that a shopper should look at when buying. First, the overall quality of the work is huge. The materials used in creating a cigar poker are critical. You also must consider what kind of customer service experience is provided. Does it include a guarantee or warranty on craftsmanship? Can the designer offer ideas or recommendations? Can the designer translate the individual’s vision into a beautiful product? You’ll see a wide variation in a designer or brand’s ability to deliver on all these elements.

You Get What You Pay For

CLG: So, should someone totally avoid a $15 cigar poker, or is there a place for that in the marketplace?

RB: There is a place for $15 pokers, but it depends on your budget and how often that you smoke. If you smoke once every six months, then these pokers may work fine in the beginning. Then, you graduate from there. Your pokers usually match the price of your other cigar accessories. The cigar culture purchases a lot of disposable products. And, $15 pokers should be thought of as disposable. It’s similar to disposable lighters. You definitely get what you pay for.

CLG: Who buys cigar pokers?

RB: I have sold cigar pokers to everyone. It’s really a matter of preference. I typically sell more to men than women, but that may be due to the number of men vs. women smokers. And, yes, men use cigar pokers too.

CLG: Are they really art first and function second or do I have that backward?

RB: For BlueSmokeATL, it’s really art first, and then function. We love the artistry and luxury of it all.

Hot Trends in Cigar Poker Customization

CLG: What are some of the most popular customization trends or themes you see on cigar pokers?

RB: Right now I’m seeing a lot of interest in cigar clubs, fraternities and sororities, sports teams or sport-themed, and hobbies. Really, anything that makes a personal statement about you and your personal journey is a hot theme. The only limitation is your imagination and creativity.

BlueSmokeATL

CLG: Tell me about your business: BlueSmokeATL.

RB: BlueSmokeATL is a timeless collection of carefully curated cigar pokers. The name is a play on my last name, Blue. I started the business in 2019. We offer unique cigar pokers to compliment your ability to smoke in style. We offer exclusive custom designs as well. Our elaborate and high-quality designs have catered to every type of smoker from beginner to aficionado.

One of our core missions at BlueSmokeATL is to make our brand as inclusive, diverse, fun, and accessible as possible. We pride ourselves on our quality pieces and excellent customer service. Our pieces are sure to add the “Wow” factor to your current smoking accessories.

We have an online and retail presence to engage with our fans and consumers. BlueSmokeATL is also owned by a woman of color.

For more information on BlueSmokeATL you can check out:

BlueSmokeATL.com

ETSY

Instagram

Disclosure: From time to time, Cigar Life Guy will highlight innovative businesses in the cigar community. This is not an advertisement. Cigar Life Guy is not affiliated with BlueSmokeATL. It receives no compensation for any products sold or referred by this article, nor is it responsible for any purchases made.

Photo credit: BlueSmokeATL

Cigar Lady Demi Moore Loves a Good Smoke

Posted on February 7, 2021 by Staff

For a good reason, Demi Moore is one of Hollywood’s prolific leading ladies. She’s been active for 40 years and has constantly been working throughout her entire career. Demi Moore has done it all: cameos in television series, leading roles in blockbuster films, or lending her iconic voice to animated characters. While doing it all, this leading cigar lady has also been smoking sticks alongside peers such as Kurt Russell and Tom Cruise.

The Early Years

Demi Moore is one of those rare, natural talents with something extra that makes people want to watch everything she does. She was born in Roswell, New Mexico, the birthplace of weirdness and aliens. Moore left home and became a pin-up girl at age 16 before landing a real acting gig at 19. She has battled criticism, gender bias, and even cocaine addiction. Yet, through it all, she has remained one of Hollywood’s most driven and outspoken women.

Moore was a struggling actress long before she was a household name and years before her famous pottery scene with Patrick Swayze in Ghost. She eeked out minor roles in little-known films and TV shows. Moore landed a recurring role in the soap opera General Hospital in 1982. Yet, she would gain a truly impactful role in 1985s St. Elmo’s Fire. Her role in the 80s classic teen drama would have her stealing hearts and catapulting to stardom.

From there, she landed supporting roles in more movies until her big break starring alongside Swayze in Ghost. This role landed Moore critical acclaim and marked her as one of Hollywood’s leading women.

From Actress to Cigar Lady

Demi Moore may be more well-known for her movie roles, but she certainly hasn’t stopped there. Her marriage to action movie icon Bruce Willis resulted in three daughters. Motherhood is a feat few actresses have accomplished while continuing to hold their own in Hollywood. However, Moore is also known for her ability to command the screen. On the set, she is known for her grit and determination, even in the face of criticism.

Moore is unabashed and fearless toward her critics, especially for some of her roles in movies like Striptease and indecent Proposal. Yet, she offers no apologies for her roles. Instead, she says equality means having these parts for people to see.

This leading cigar lady applies that same attitude toward smoking cigars. According to Moore, her first cigar was too much for her taste. It was a Montecristo, and Moore has since found smaller cigars more to her liking. She also often enjoys a Montecristo Joyita while enjoying the occasional Cohiba #2 or Montecristo #2. She was even given a travel humidor by a friend and fellow cigar fan, Tom Cruise. Moore uses it when she’s flying between sets.

Unapologetic and Unforgettable Cigar Lady

Part of what makes Demi Moore a mainstay in the business is her commitment to her craft and her ability to tackle any situation before her. Moore is reportedly one of the most straightforward women in Hollywood to work with. According to some reports, she is among the highest-paid women in history.

Cigar lady Demi Moore takes each role as seriously as the last. She has even gone so far as to speak with the Pentagon to get funding for the film G.I. Jane. The famous movie was about a female Navy SEAL. However, the Pentagon denied her request due to no female SEALs.

Moore continued to work on the film without the help of the White House or the Pentagon. She even went so far as to shave her head for the role. Moore works tirelessly on every project, opting to reshoot scenes until the emotion comes across right.

Her passion for cigars is just as relentless. She has been vocal throughout the years about how she enjoys cigars. Despite being a woman with an image to maintain, Moore feels everyone is equal, and women can enjoy cigars, too.

Still In The Game

Although she’s been acting for 40 years and times have changed, Demi Moore shows no signs of stopping. She frequently has guest appearances and recurring roles in TV shows like the massive hit Empire. She’s also working on new movie projects, animated films, and production work.

Moore has a reputation for doing what she wants and enjoying it, while others mock and criticize her, including her smoking cigars. However, Moore still enjoys cigars and often relishes the opportunity for a good smoke. Although Hollywood standards and ideas towards smoking have soured, Moore is still a rebel and proud to call herself a leading cigar lady. We’ll likely see more of her in the coming years, doing what she does best and giving us a good show.

Photo credit: ” Demi Moore by David Shankbone 2010 NYC,” by David Shankbone, Flickr, licensed CC BY 2.0.

Boxbags are Putting Cigar Boxes Back to Work

Posted on January 17, 2021 by Staff

Cigar boxes have been around for hundreds of years. During that time, they have evolved from very utilitarian to resembling works of art. Some smokers covet the beautiful packaging the cigars come in more than the cigars themselves. Demeatria Powell, the owner of Smokin Lashes, LLC and creator of the original Boxbags, saw the opportunity in creating something beautiful and fashionable for sisters of the leaf.

What Happens to Empty Cigar Boxes?

Cigar boxes, which are often made of cedarwood, have a sturdy design. So, cigar boxes have long been good places to store odds and ends of all sorts. That includes paperwork, baseball cards, photos, and just about anything else. For competitive and aesthetic reasons, cigar boxes have grown more ornate. This only increases the desirability to keep them around the house long after the cigars are gone. In fact, some boxes have even risen to the level of collectibles. eBay has thousands of listings for empty cigar boxes for sale, but that’s not all. Cigar boxes have also been repurposed into completely different items, including guitars and now handbags.

Meet Demeatria Powell, Owner of Smokin’ Lashes LLC

One Sister of the Leaf from Atlanta, Demeatria Powell, has taken cigar boxes to a whole new level. She repurposes them as “Boxbags” or fashion accessories that might replace a purse or handbag. Demeatria has turned Boxbags into a business and developed quite a following. So, Cigar Life Guy caught up with her in the following interview.

Cigar Life Guy: What is a Boxbag?

Demeatria Powell: A Boxbag is a sophisticated version of a woman’s purse made from an authentic cigar box. Like many women’s handbags, Boxbags come in different sizes, styles, and designs. I also designed an Ashbox. It’s basically the male version of Boxbags, but it’s tailored to BOTL.

CLG: How did you start Smokin Lashes? Is there a story behind it?

DP: I started Smokin Lashes LLC in February 2018. It originally focused on makeup and eyelash installation. However, once COVID-19 hit, I had to reinvent my business. I wanted to find a way to capture the growing presence of women in the cigar industry, which has become such an integral part of my life.

I have to give special thanks to my Leaflife Network family, especially two of the owners of Leaflife Lounge (Ellenwood GA) Kelvin Robinson Sr and Calvin Robinson. They encouraged me to use my creative talents and allowed me to utilize the increasing number of cigar boxes on hand at the lounge. That’s how the Boxbag started!

Smokers Like Boxbags from Favorite Brands

CLG: Have certain styles proved to be more popular? What makes a good Boxbag?

DP: I’ve found most of my customers, which are predominately Sisters of the Leaf, like a Boxbag with additional accessories. That might be a scarf, sparkling stones, sequence, beads, or jewelry that makes it stand out. The Boxbag carries a unique design from the handle or strap chosen to the clasp used to open and close it. It also includes custom lining and various decorative flare inside.

The cigar box itself is important. It should be sturdy and eye-catching. The brand of the box is very important to many customers wanting to represent the brand they are loyal to. I’ve started the hashtag #️carrywhatyousmoke on social in response to the desire ladies have to carry their brand as a bag. Simply put, the Boxbag is beautiful inside and out. It’s definitely a conversation starter and compliments the inner “Boss Lady” in all of us.

CLG: How many Boxbags are custom requests vs. premade from inventory? How long do custom orders typically take?

DP: Seventy-five percent of sales come from premade Boxbags. I use my creative talents to ensure each Boxbag is desirable. It typically takes 7-10 days to complete and ship a custom Boxbag.

BoxBags on Social Media

CLG: How do you market your business or how do your customers find you?

DP: With social media at everyone’s fingertips, that is the main source of my marketing. Additionally, I receive customer referrals, which is at least 30% of my new customer orders. It is exciting is to see Boxbags are attracting ladies across age groups. That includes women who do not regularly smoke cigars.

CLG: Where do you get the empty cigar boxes you use as your raw materials?

DP: The popularity of cigar lounges in the Atlanta area has left no shortages of cigar boxes. I travel near and far to collect potential boxes for my creations.

Want to learn more about Smokin Lashes LLC? Reach out through social messaging:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/smokin_lashes

Facebook: Smokin Lashes LLC

Disclosure: From time-to-time, Cigar Life Guy will highlight innovative businesses in the cigar community. This is not an advertisement. Cigar Life Guy is not affiliated with Smoking Lashes LLC. It receives no compensation for any products sold or referred by this article, nor is it responsible for any purchases made.

Photo Credit: Smokin Lashes LLC

Women and Cigars: Rihanna is Smokin’!

Posted on August 9, 2020 by Staff

Women and cigars are becoming more commonplace today despite cigar-smoking long considered as a man’s domain. Women have shattered the taboo image of female smokers and taken cigar-smoking mainstream. Cigars are no longer gender-biased. Now, more than ever, cigars symbolize a level of female empowerment and equality. Who better to embody the dynamic of female empowerment than superstar R and B singer Rihanna? And, Rihanna also happens to be a significant cigar enthusiast.

Only the Best Come From the Islands

Rihanna was born in St. Michael and raised in Bridgetown, Barbados. She shattered stereotypes and personified the strong, female dynamic. It all began when she burst onto the R and B scene upon coming to the states in 2005. It was then that she signed with Def Jam Records.

In 2007, with her song “Umbrella,” Rihanna took center stage in the American R and B scene, earning her first Grammy. So, it was only fitting during her celebration that she also smoked another excellent island import, a Cohiba Corona Minor.

Rihanna Loves Cubans

This wouldn’t be the first time fans spotted Rihanna enjoying a trophy cigar. She celebrated cigars in her 2014 video for the song, “Can’t Remember to Forget You.” The video featured fellow cigar enthusiast and singer extraordinaire, Shakira. The duo enjoyed cigars between some heart-pounding dance moves. Yet, the cigars weren’t a prop. Rihanna and Shakira also enjoyed cigars after filming the video as well. Then, again during guest appearances on each other’s respective tours.

Not Just Women and Cigars, but All in the Family

Rihanna isn’t the only family member with a well-known passion for cigars. Her brother, Rorrey Fenty, founded the luxury cigar line Legado. To celebrate the launch, Legado partnered with Faberge and Rome De Bellegarde Cognac.

The goal including auctioning four limited edition trophy humidors. These special humidors featuring cigars, cognac, and exquisitely detailed timepieces. Hollywood elites and cigar enthusiasts including Arnold Schwarzenegger attended the VIP list. The auction fetched well over a million dollars. And, part of the proceeds was donated to charity.

Women and Cigars: Cuba Isn’t the Only Island That Smokes

Big sister Rihanna keeps a careful eye on the project. She encouraged her brother to follow his dream. After all, the whole family enjoyed cigar smoking. In Barbados, the smoking culture is changing; old men no longer dominate it.

Younger generations, especially women, thanks to Rihanna’s influence, are following suit. Then again, is there a better way to launch a new generation of cigar enthusiasts? Legado cigars offer an exclusive 10-year aged Cameroonian wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder, and a rare Dominican Republic filler. So, finding a more tantalizing smoke is unlikely.

Does Rihanna Only Smoke Family Cigars?

True to her character, Rihanna doesn’t do anything for the show. Instead, she echoed her brother’s sentiment. Cigar and pipe smoking are something she remembers her grandfather and relatives doing together. It brought them closer, and when she can’t smoke with her family, she does with her team that tours with her. When she isn’t smoking a Legado, you’ll see her briefly smoking with Arturo Fuente Exquisitos.

For extended gatherings, Rihanna does not shy away from a massive Cohiba or Romeo y Julieta. Influential female celebrities have led the path toward eliminating gender expectations. That’s especially true when it comes to cigars. Music icons like Rihanna continue to blaze trails for future generations of female cigar smokers.

Photo credit: “Rihanna Met Gala 2017,” by Danilo Lauria, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY-SA 3.0

Jennifer Lopez Loves Cigars, Too!

Posted on May 25, 2020 by Staff

Jennifer Lopez is no stranger to a good smoke. And when it comes to smoking sticks, Jennifer Lopez loves cigars. In fact, she’s been smoking cigars since she first appeared on our television screens in the early 90s. Then, she was a Fly Girl on “In Living Color.” However, try telling her that cigars are a guy thing. You’re liable to get a dropkick response from her if you do. One this is certain, though, her love of cigars has not slowed her down.

Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez are Smoking!

It doesn’t hurt when you’re a cigar lover whose fiance happens to be power-hitter Alex Rodriguez, either. Alex is a well-known cigar aficionado. He told the story about enjoying his favorite cigar at 5 a.m. with several other New York Yankees. It happened outside of a pizza shop the morning after they won the World Series.

Jennifer Lopez and Rodriguez are a power couple photographed frequently smoking their favorite brands. Jennifer Lopez tends to favor Padron. Meanwhile, Alex quickly points out his love of Hoyo De Monterrey, the first cigar he ever smoked. It was introduced to him by none other than Michael Jordan during a round of golf.

Jennifer Lopez: Cigars and a Healthy Lifestyle

The eternally young Jennifer Lopez remains one of the hardest-working stars in Hollywood. Besides movies and being a judge on a television dance show, she maintains a grueling live concert show in Vegas that is heavy on dancing.

Lopez credits her biggest beauty secret to staying young with getting sleep. “It’s the one thing I won’t allow to be interrupted.” In her most recent film, “Hustlers,” she was forced to endure long hours on the set smoking cigarettes (as part of her character, Ramona). It was a habit that started and ended with the movie. However, she likes her cigars and refuses to let the cigarettes become a terrible habit!

Jennifer Lopez’s Island Connection

In the video to the song “Dinero,” Jennifer Lopez and Cardi B can be seen living the high life while liberally enjoying trophy cigars. Although both Bronx, New York natives, Lopez and Cardi B, share traditional island routes from their families. Jennifer Lopez’s parents are from Puerto Rico, while Cardi B’s family is from Trinidad and the Dominican Republic.

Both singers clarified that the cigars were not simply part of the video as props. “Cigars are a part of the Latino blood. It’s what families do together after big meals.” The two divas shared plenty of cigars on and off the set!

Still Jenny From the Block

Jennifer Lopez spends ample time traveling. She has homes in Miami. Lopez performs at Vegas stage shows. But she also enjoys spending time with friends back in the Bronx when she has a little extra time. Wherever her travels take her, Lopez never leaves home with a humidor packed with her favorite Padrons. And she always shares a few with her friends along the way. After all, sharing a cigar with friends is one of the best things about spending uninterrupted time together.

Despite her crazy schedule, Lopez enjoys the relaxing benefits of a good cigar. It allows you to stop for a few brief moments and take in life’s simple pleasures before returning to the day’s hustle. Any cigar lover can agree with that.

Photo credit: “Jennifer Lopez During an Interview, 2019,” by MTV International, Wikimedia Commons license CC BY 3.0