Let's talk about women and cigars, ah yes of course we live in the 21st century and for the most part people have the right to do what the please within the confines of the law. So why aren't there more women enjoying the cigar lifestyle? Well one of my takes on it, is that for so long the only images you saw were those of men smoking cigars, and the women who we did see smoking were either the old western movie women, or the not so wholesome women in movies and print ads (who for the most part only had a cigar as a prop). Also, most cigar stores and lounges were dominated by men, and the women that were there were usually "eye candy" or "trophies" for the big spender guy, yapping about how much he spent for his cigars.
Well those days are long gone and more women are enjoying cigars, as well as more women are actually leading the manufacturing of cigars. Companies like Fuente, E.P. Carillo and Fonseca just to name a few have women who not only run major portions of the company, but are also integral in the creation of new blends. Do a quick Google search on "women in the cigar industry" and you just might be surprised. You'll also find that a lot of women are opening cigar stores and lounges, just for the fact of making the lifestyle more inclusive. No that doesn't mean, the stores and lounges are all "foo foo" for the lack of a better term, it means women do enjoy cigars and are attempting to invite more women to do as well. I know of a few lounges throughout the country who have either women only nights, or events geared to introducing women to cigars. After all, money is money and the last time I checked money had no gender.
Now there are still some shops filled with "Neanderthals" who think the world is theirs and not only do that show their very low IQ's by making stupid comments, sexist statements and many times are just down right assholes, but that shouldn't stop women from visiting these places and learning more about this lifestyle, and like anywhere else women should demand they be treated equally, fairly and respectfully. As a black man, I've been in shops where those same idiots spew their racist and social hate and I make it known I don't appreciate it and won't tolerate. Most owners (with the exception of those who don't normally show their ignorance, but don't stop others from showing theirs), don't tolerate those behaviors in their businesses, because eventually it will not only cost them money, but they typically get a bad rap and I've seen a shop or two close, because nobody wanted to be in those places and the few idiots that are showing their ignorance normally don't spend enough to keep those places open.
By the same token , one must be aware of their surroundings, meaning if you're in a lounge and the conversation is geared around lets say, politics, that wouldn't be a good time to start talking about the shoes you just bought or your floozy girlfriend. Be a part of the conversation and don't try to be THE conversation. I personally don't care if you're a woman enjoying cigars, I only care about what value you bring to the cigar lifestyle. I say that because I know of a woman, who has some cigar knowledge, but inevitably, she shows up to the shop and wants the whole conversation to be about her. The last thing I'm looking for when I'm enjoying a cigar is some one who thinks because she's scantly dressed and speaks like a little kid, she'll be the center of attention. I've had this discussion with fellow cigar friends (men and women) who agree with me 100%. I've even had a woman friend politely take this woman to the side and tell her how silly she's making herself look. Long story short, that woman (Miss attention getter) doesn't come around much anymore.
So, all my sisters of the leaf (SOTL) or aspiring SOTL, don't be afraid, and don't be judgmental. Dive into the cigar lifestyle, and you may just be surprised. Don't be afraid to ask questions and it really is okay to talk with others about what cigars they like, how they started enjoying cigars and how you might get the optimum enjoyment from a cigar. Besides I love it when a knowledgeable SOTL puts one of those Neanderthals in their place. I'd love to hear some feedback, either post responses here or email me. You can also follow me on Facebook at my "What 'cha smoking" page. So until next time, CLP (clip, light and puff)
Long ashes!!! (___G_________]]]]~~~
Discussions about the world of premium cigars, accessories, libations and everything cigars.
