Cigar Etiquette 101: How to Enjoy a Premium Cigar at Your Event

Nothing adds sophistication and charm to an event quite like a well-curated cigar experience. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a corporate gathering, or a private party with a cigar rolling station, knowing proper cigar etiquette ensures you and those around you enjoy the experience to the fullest. Here are some essential dos and don’ts when it comes to enjoying a premium cigar at your event.

1. Choosing the Right Cigar

Selecting the right cigar is the first step in enjoying a premium smoke. If you’re new to cigars, start with a milder option, as full bodied cigars can be overpowering. If you’re unsure, ask the cigar attendant or roller for recommendations based on your preferences.

2. Cutting the Cigar Properly

Cutting a cigar is a delicate process. Use a sharp cigar cutter and make a clean cut at the cap, just above the shoulder of the cigar. Avoid cutting too much, as this can cause the wrapper to unravel. If a professional is available, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.

3. Lighting Your Cigar Correctly

Proper lighting is key to an even and enjoyable burn. Use a butane lighter or wooden matches rather than a regular lighter, which can impart unwanted flavors. Hold the flame slightly away from the cigar and rotate it slowly to ensure an even light.

4. Savor the Experience – Don’t Inhale

Unlike cigarettes, cigars are meant to be savored, not inhaled. Take slow, steady draws and let the flavors linger on your palate. Enjoy the aroma and craftsmanship of the cigar rather than rushing through it.

5. Be Mindful of the Ash

A well-rolled cigar will hold its ash for some time, but it’s best to gently tap it off into an ashtray before it falls unexpectedly. Avoid flicking the ash like a cigarette simply let it rest in the tray.

6. Respect the Space & Those Around You

Not everyone at the event may be a cigar smoker, so be mindful of where you smoke. If an event has a designated smoking area, use it. Avoid blowing smoke directly at others and be courteous to non-smokers nearby.

7. Knowing When to Put It Out

A cigar should be allowed to go out on its own rather than being crushed out like a cigarette. When you’re finished, place it in the ashtray and let it extinguish naturally. This prevents unnecessary smoke and keeps the area pleasant for others.

Final Thoughts

A cigar experience is about more than just smoking it’s about relaxation, conversation, and appreciation. By following these etiquette tips, you’ll enhance your enjoyment while also ensuring that everyone around you has a great time. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a first-time smoker, a cigar rolling event is the perfect way to celebrate in style.

Looking to bring a cigar rolling experience to your next event? Contact us “The Mobile Cigar Lounge” today to learn more about how we can elevate your gathering with premium cigars and expert rollers.

Elevate Your Wedding with Unique and Timeless Experiences

Planning a wedding is all about creating unforgettable moments for you and your guests. While traditional elements like beautiful decor, gourmet catering, and heartfelt speeches are staples of a memorable celebration, more couples are seeking ways to add a unique flair that truly makes their event stand out. If you’re looking for something luxurious, interactive, and undeniably elegant, consider adding a live cigar-rolling experience to your big day.

The Rise of Experiential Wedding Trends

In today’s wedding industry, couples are prioritizing guest experiences over cookie-cutter traditions. From signature cocktail stations to live entertainers, the goal is to leave guests talking about your wedding long after the final dance. A live cigar-rolling station fits perfectly into this trend by combining sophistication, interactivity, and a touch of Old-World charm.

Why a Cigar-Rolling Experience?

A cigar roller at your wedding does more than just provide premium cigars—it creates a luxurious ambiance that appeals to a wide range of guests. Here are just a few reasons why it’s worth considering:

1. An Interactive Attraction: Guests love watching the artistry of a professional rolling cigars in real time. It’s both entertaining and educational, sparking conversations and drawing everyone in.

2. A Personalized Touch: Many cigar-rolling companies allow you to customize the cigars with your wedding date or initials, creating a unique keepsake for guests to take home.

3. Perfect for a Lounge Setting: Pair the experience with a stylish cigar lounge complete with comfortable seating, drinks, and soft lighting, offering a relaxed space for your guests to unwind.

4. Timeless Sophistication: Cigars have long been associated with celebration and luxury—what better way to commemorate the start of your new chapter?

When and Where Does It Work Best?

A cigar-rolling experience can be seamlessly integrated into various parts of your wedding day:

• Reception Lounge: Create a designated space for cigars and whiskey pairings for an upscale, relaxed vibe.

• After-Party: End the night with a statement by offering guests a final indulgence before they head home.

Make Your Wedding Truly Memorable

Your wedding is one of the most significant days of your life, and every detail should reflect your personality and style. Adding a live cigar roller not only elevates your event but also provides a luxurious experience your guests will never forget.

Ready to make your wedding unforgettable? Chat with us today to book a live cigar-rolling experience and let us help you craft an event that’s as smooth and timeless as a perfectly rolled cigar.

2023 recap being awarded Disabled Veteran Business under $3 Million.

[Madison, New Jersey – May 11th, 2023] On May 25th, from 8AM to 4PM, at Farleigh Dickinson University in Madison, NJ, the NJ State Veterans Chamber of Commerce (NJSVCC) will host the Disabled Veteran and Veteran Business Summit which will bring together, in a single location, over 150 veteran owned businesses with government agencies and private companies that seek to procure with them. The summit will give employers and state agencies the opportunity to personally meet with veteran business owners (VOBs) and disabled veteran business owners (DVOBs) to learn of their capabilities and to discuss partnering on upcoming projects.

VOBs and DVOBs possess a wide range of skills, resources, and capabilities, from skilled trades and construction crafts, to technical, technological and consultation specialties. In a tight labor and hiring market, participating companies and agencies will be delighted to learn about the diverse range of VOB and DVOB enterprises, and how they can fill their needs and help with their own projects and business development.

The summit promises to be a brisk and busy day, with DVOBs and VOBs booths set up, prepared to meet up with a wide range of private companies, government agency leads and business associations to discuss prospects and opportunities. The day’s packed schedule will include panels, an awards presentation, and various speakers, including elected officials and state representatives, who will discuss the state’s support of veteran businesses.

An important priority of the summit will be to facilitate state enforcement of its own 3% set-aside law for disabled veteran businesses by contracting state agencies. To date, this set aside has not been rigorously enforced. This has left the noble goal of leveling the playing field for DVOBs an unfulfilled intention for the state.

For state agencies, vendors, companies with procurement diversity goals and anyone else interested in hiring, working with or meeting the VOBs and DVOBs on hand, click here to register and for additional information, including a full event schedule with a list of speakers and presenters: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/disabled-veteran-veteran-business-summit-tickets-611431316527

If you are a VOB or DVOB looking for expanded opportunities, it is not too late to register for the summit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/disabled-veteran-veteran-business-summit-tickets-611431316527

This event is crucial for the state’s veteran businesses. Compared to their non-veteran owned counterparts, veteran owned businesses suffer from poorly developed networks of partners, and affiliates, as well as lack of access to sufficient capital for their business endeavors. This makes the challenges faced by VOBs and DVOBs comparable to those faced by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) and makes it difficult for them to fully participate in the free market system. On top of these disadvantages, VOBs have also been excluded from numerous past diversity goals worked into state and federal funding opportunities, including the aforementioned 3% set aside.

Several awards will be handed out at the event to several outstanding veteran owned businesses, as well as state agencies and organizations that have gone above and beyond in their support of veteran businesses:

Veteran Run Business over $3 Million – Patriot Shotcrete

Disabled Veteran Business over $3 Million – NJF Worldwide

Disabled Veteran Business under $3 Million – The Mobile Cigar Lounge

NJ State Agency who best support veteran businesses – NJEDA (NJ Economic Development Authority)

Collaborator of the Year Award – Luis De La Hoz from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of NJ

Please join us at FDU on May 25th:

What: Disabled Veteran and Veteran Business Summit

Where: Farleigh Dickinson University, Ferguson Recreation Center, 285 Madison Avenue, Madison, NJ 07940

When: 8:00AM-4:00 PM

The event is hosted by the New Jersey State Veteran’s Chamber of Commerce (NJSVCC), a 501 C (6) nonprofit organization focused on veteran business advocacy, education, networking, procurement, and supplier diversity events, with the end goal of making New Jersey’s economy fairer to veteran owned businesses.

Event sponsors include the Bluepoint Wind, Johnson & Johnson, TD Bank, Provident Bank, NJ Resources, and logistical support from the NJ Small Business Development Center.

If you would like more information about this event or would just like more information on how to show support for veterans in general, please visit the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce website at njveteranschamber.com or contact Jeff Cantor at jeff@njveteranschamber.com.

What “NOT” to do when you see a cigar bar.

We get it, sometimes you get so excited that it’s hard to contain yourself. But try and keep these in mind. 

➡️ Please do not grab a handful of cigars right off the table. Our tobacconist is more then happy to cut and light a cigar for you. Trust us, we want you to have a cigar, we won’t deny you. We have plenty and want to spread the wealth 👍

➡️ Don’t spill your drink over the cigars. If you’re a bit tipsy, place your glass away from the table. Not everyone wants an infused cigar 😂

➡️ As we light your cigar, you do not need to keep trying to get closer and closer. There’s a reason we keep the direct flame away from the foot of the cigar. Keep still 😎

➡️ Please do not put the cigar in your mouth before we cut it for you. Save that for if you have your own cutter. Sharing is caring, but not when it come to spit 💧

Top 3 Mistakes Couples make when booking a cigar bar.

There aren’t many mistakes you can make when booking a cigar bar.

But the few that can be made can make it or break it for your experience.

Mistake #1. Not enough cigars! We hear time and time again that “not a lot of people will smoke.” Sure that “might” be true, but many people take this wedding opportunity as a chance to try a cigar for the first time and get in on the party. Additionally, since we customize the cigar bands for you, many people take these home as keepsakes. Also, many people will want to smoke another, take some home, or give to another friend or family member who wasn’t able to attend. Our professional advice to avoid this “problem” is to listen to our dedicated concierge team. They handle over 1,000 events a year. They’ll know the best cigar count for you and your guests.

Mistake #2. Timing. Timing is important. Many people believe cocktail hour is the best time for cigars. This isn’t true. Many people want to eat at that time and will miss the experience. The best time we recommend is the LAST 2 hours of the reception. At this point, dinner has been eaten, photos taken, and the cake has been cut. Now no one will miss any of those big moments. By the end of the night, everyone is ready to step outside for some air and a cigar 😎

Mistake #3. Not stepping outside for a quick smoke yourself. We get it, you’re extremely busy with everything going on. But take at least 20 minutes, experience the art of rolling cigars, smoke with your friends and family who came to visit, and have your photographer take some awesome pictures! Pro tip: Have them do some back lit cigar photos 😉

Essentials for cigars at your wedding.

Weddings are joyous celebrations, a union of love, and a time for making lasting memories. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, including the rich flavors and aromas of cigars, incorporating them into your wedding can be a memorable and sophisticated touch. In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of including cigars in your wedding festivities, ensuring an experience that will be enjoyed and remembered by both you and your guests.

Choosing the right cigars is a crucial step. Consider the preferences of both the bride and groom, as well as your guests. It’s wise to offer a variety, including milder and stronger options, to accommodate different tastes. Some popular choices include:

  • Connecticut Shade: Known for their mild and smooth flavor.
  • Maduro: Rich, dark, and full-bodied cigars.
  • Robusto or Churchill: Popular sizes for wedding cigars.

The way you present the cigars can enhance the experience. Consider a well-decorated cigar bar or lounge area with a selection of cigars on display. Customized cigar bands with your names and the wedding date add a personal touch. You might also provide cigar cutters and lighters for convenience.

Ensure your guests are aware of the basics of cigar etiquette, especially if they are not regular cigar smokers. Share tips on how to cut, light, and enjoy a cigar properly. It’s also essential to designate a smoking area, keeping in mind any local regulations and the comfort of all guests.

Cigars often pair well with certain beverages. Offer a variety of drinks to complement the cigars, such as:

  • Scotch or Whiskey: For a classic pairing.
  • Wine: Red wine, in particular, can be a great match.
  • Cognac or Port: For a more refined experience.

To create the perfect ambiance, consider hiring a live jazz band, as jazz music often complements the cigar-smoking experience. Comfortable seating and soft lighting will contribute to a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.

Provide guests with a keepsake to remember the occasion. Customized cigar cutters, personalized cigar boxes, or even small cigars as wedding favors can be a delightful touch.

Cigars can make for stunning and memorable photos. Encourage guests to capture moments of enjoyment with cigars in hand.

Incorporate unique cigar-related traditions into your wedding, such as a cigar-rolling demonstration or a “cigar toast” during the reception.

Including cigars in your wedding can be a sophisticated and enjoyable addition, creating a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests. Selecting the right cigars, presenting them beautifully, and providing the necessary information and accessories will ensure that the celebration is a success. Remember to adhere to any local regulations and make the experience enjoyable for everyone, even non-smokers.

By paying attention to these essentials, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a wedding that combines the joy of love with the pleasures of a good cigar, creating a truly unforgettable day.

Having a professional tobacconist is important.

When it comes to the world of cigars, pipe tobacco, and other tobacco-related products, having a professional tobacconist by your side can make all the difference. A tobacconist is not just a shopkeeper; they are highly knowledgeable experts who offer a range of benefits to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of tobacco. Let’s explore the advantages of having a professional tobacconist as your guide.

1. Expertise and Knowledge:

One of the most significant benefits of consulting a professional tobacconist is their expertise and knowledge. They possess in-depth knowledge of various tobacco products, including cigars, pipe tobacco, and accessories. This expertise allows them to provide valuable guidance on selecting the right products based on your preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for a mild cigar or a bold blend of pipe tobacco, a professional tobacconist can offer recommendations tailored to your taste.

2. Personalized Recommendations:

Every tobacco enthusiast has unique preferences when it comes to flavor, strength, and aroma. A professional tobacconist takes the time to understand your individual preferences and can recommend products that align with your taste. They can introduce you to new brands and blends you might not have discovered on your own, enhancing your overall tobacco experience.

3. Proper Storage and Maintenance:

Tobacco products, especially cigars, require proper storage and maintenance to maintain their freshness and flavor. A professional tobacconist can advise you on how to store and care for your tobacco products, including humidification for cigars and proper cleaning techniques for pipes. This guidance ensures that your tobacco investments remain in optimal condition.

4. Customization and Pairing:

Professional tobacconists often have the capability to customize cigars and pipe tobacco blends to suit your preferences. They can also provide expert advice on pairing tobacco with beverages like wine, whiskey, or coffee, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

5. Access to Rare and Limited Edition Products:

Many tobacconists have access to rare and limited edition tobacco products that may not be readily available elsewhere. This can be especially appealing to collectors and connoisseurs looking for unique and exclusive items.

6. Education and Guidance:

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced tobacco enthusiast, a professional tobacconist can offer education and guidance on various aspects of the hobby. They can teach you about the history of tobacco, the art of cigar rolling, the different types of tobacco leaves, and more. This knowledge enriches your appreciation for the craft.

In conclusion, having a professional tobacconist as your trusted source for tobacco products and expertise offers a range of benefits. Their knowledge, personalized recommendations, and access to unique products enhance your enjoyment of cigars, pipe tobacco, and related accessories. Whether you’re just beginning your journey in the world of tobacco or seeking to expand your horizons, a professional tobacconist can be an invaluable resource, ensuring that you make the most of your tobacco experience.

Finding the perfect cigar: What’s best for you?

Choosing the right cigar can be a delightful journey, akin to discovering your favorite wine or coffee. With a vast array of options available, it’s important to explore and find the cigar that suits your personal preferences and occasions. In this short guide, we’ll help you navigate the world of cigars to find the one that’s best for you.

Understanding Your Taste Preferences:

The first step in finding your ideal cigar is to consider your taste preferences. Do you enjoy milder, more delicate flavors, or are you inclined towards bold and robust tastes? If you’re new to cigars, starting with a milder option is often recommended. Look for cigars with Connecticut wrappers, as they tend to be smoother and lighter in flavor. For those seeking a more intense experience, cigars with Maduro wrappers or Nicaraguan blends offer a rich and robust taste.

Choosing the Right Size and Shape:

Cigars come in various shapes and sizes, each offering a unique smoking experience. Consider the occasion and the time you have to enjoy your cigar. If you’re looking for a quick smoke during a lunch break, a smaller cigar like a Petit Corona might be perfect. For a longer, leisurely smoke, a Churchill or Toro will provide an extended experience.

Matching the Occasion:

Cigars can enhance various occasions, from celebrations to relaxation moments. For celebratory occasions, you might opt for a special cigar with a unique wrapper or a limited edition release. For unwinding after a long day, a mild to medium-bodied cigar can be a soothing choice. The key is to match the cigar to the mood and moment.

Exploring Different Brands:

Cigar brands often have distinct characteristics and flavor profiles. Sampling cigars from different brands can be an exciting way to discover your favorites. Experiment with well-established brands and boutique manufacturers to broaden your palate.

Seeking Recommendations:

Don’t hesitate to seek recommendations from experienced cigar enthusiasts or your local tobacconist. They can offer valuable insights based on your preferences and guide you towards cigars that align with your taste.

Experiment and Enjoy:

Ultimately, the best cigar for you is the one that you enjoy the most. The world of cigars is vast and diverse, offering a wide range of flavors and experiences. So, don’t rush the journey. Take your time to explore, savor, and appreciate the nuances of different cigars. With each new smoke, you’ll inch closer to discovering your perfect cigar companion.

Finding the best cigar for you is a personal and enjoyable quest. It involves understanding your taste preferences, exploring different sizes and shapes, matching cigars to occasions, trying various brands, and seeking recommendations. Remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and the beauty of cigar appreciation lies in the exploration and discovery of what pleases your palate. Enjoy the journey and the delightful moments each cigar brings.

How to smoke a cigar, from cut to light.

  1. Choosing the Right Cigar:
    Select a cigar that suits your taste preferences in terms of size, shape, and flavor. Cigars vary in strength and flavor, so choose one that matches your preference.
  2. Cutting the Cigar:
    Use a cigar cutter to make a clean, precise cut at the head (closed end) of the cigar.
    Make sure to cut just above the cap, which is the rounded part of the head.
    Avoid biting or tearing the cigar, as this can damage the wrapper and affect the draw.
  3. Inspecting the Cigar:
    Examine the cigar for any visible flaws or damage.
    Ensure the wrapper is smooth and not cracked.
  4. Toasting the Foot:
    Hold the cigar at a slight angle over a flame without letting it touch the fire.
    Gently rotate the cigar to evenly toast the foot (open end) until it begins to glow and the edges turn black.
  5. Lighting the Cigar:
    Place the toasted foot of the cigar in your mouth.
    While drawing in slowly, continue to hold the flame to the foot, allowing it to ignite.
    Rotate the cigar to ensure an even burn.
    Avoid using scented candles or lighter fluids, as they can affect the flavor of the cigar.
  6. Puffing and Savoring:
    Once the cigar is lit, take slow, gentle puffs rather than inhaling the smoke into your lungs.
    Savor the flavors and aromas by rolling the smoke around your mouth.
    Pay attention to the nuances of the cigar’s flavor profile.
  7. Ash Management:
    Let the ash naturally form while smoking. Quality cigars tend to produce long, solid ash.
    Gently tap the ash into an ashtray to prevent it from falling off prematurely.
  8. Proper Etiquette:
    Hold the cigar between your index finger and thumb or between your index and middle fingers.
    Avoid excessive ashing or tapping, as it can make the cigar burn unevenly.
    Do not stub out the cigar like a cigarette; instead, let it go out naturally when you’re finished.
  9. Enjoying the Experience:
    Relax, socialize, and enjoy the moment. Smoking a cigar is about more than just the tobacco; it’s about the experience and camaraderie.
  10. Storing Your Cigars:
    Cigars should be stored in a proper humidor to maintain their freshness and flavor. A humidor helps regulate temperature and humidity.
    Remember that cigar smoking is a leisurely and contemplative activity. Take your time and savor the flavors, aromas, and company of those you’re with.

Cigars: Breaking Stereotypes – A Universal Pleasure

Cigars, once exclusively associated with men, have evolved beyond traditional gender boundaries. This essay explores why cigars are enjoyed by both men and women, emphasizing their diverse flavors, relaxation benefits, and role in fostering social connections.

Cigars offer a captivating and diverse flavor experience that transcends gender boundaries. From mild and creamy Connecticut wrappers to bold and spicy Maduros, cigars cater to a wide range of palates. Enjoying the intricacies of these flavors is a pleasure open to all, akin to appreciating fine wine or coffee.

In addition to personal relaxation, cigars foster social inclusivity. The culture surrounding cigars emphasizes camaraderie and socializing, providing a common ground that both men and women can equally enjoy. Whether bonding with friends or engaging in meaningful conversations, cigars bring people together, transcending gender roles.

Beyond individual preferences and relaxation, cigars symbolize celebration and craftsmanship. They are often employed to mark special occasions, from weddings to birthdays, and to commemorate personal achievements. The act of toasting with a fine cigar signifies jubilation and accomplishment, sentiments that hold universal appeal. Furthermore, the art of cigar making itself is a testament to human skill and dedication, a craft that transcends gender boundaries and speaks to the appreciation of excellence.

In conclusion, cigars are unequivocally not just for men; they are for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life. The transformation of the cigar world into an inclusive and diverse culture underscores its universal appeal. Be it the rich flavors, relaxation, social connections, or celebration, cigars are a source of enjoyment and appreciation that defies gender norms. So, the next time you’re curious about cigars, do not let outdated stereotypes deter you. Embrace the experience, for it is a pleasure that knows no gender boundaries.