Cigar Club tips from Al Remp

Recently I attended a very new cigar club- 25 members, that had all cigar lovers could ask for- good friends, good discussions, good cigars, before and after food and beverages, plans for the next meeting, exchanging cigars, and a very cordial evening.

As the cigar industry continues to grow, this type of venue, has and will always be important, if you are a club member, congratulations, if not, I will give some pointers that I have witnessed.

First, you will need a location- it can be a local tobacconist, or a local eatery (smoking of cigars encouraged).

Secondly, gather names of local cigar smokers, this is simple if your local tobacco shop displays a sign-up “Join our Cigar Club” sheet. When names are gathered- someone has to be a leader- remember this is a social group- egos stay out.

If you have a plan for the first meeting- it should have a charter- the reason you will gather and develop a name.

Then you are ready to invite someone from the cigar industry.

All manufacturers will participate, but they must have a structured meeting schedule- and they “will come”.

Food and/or beverages are from Gourmet to BBQ- beverages- optional- and some beverage suppliers are anxious to attend cigar club meetings- someone in the group knows someone, etc.

Keep all meetings informational- several hours of length- with a strong willing desire to come to the next one.

How Fun-cigar clubs do that!

By Al Remp, product specialist and trainer, Thompson Cigar.