Empowering Women, Enriching Communities: A Week to Celebrate Women in the Cigar Industry
The premium cigar world has always been a realm of tradition, sophistication, and community. Yet, it is the women who continue to carve out their own space in this prestigious industry, bringing with them a unique blend of passion, resilience, and innovation.
This August 27th to September 2nd, the Smoke with a Boss Lady Week held an extraordinary celebration dedicated to honoring the women who are not just participants but trailblazers in the cigar business.
Read in the magazine (rotate your device for a better reading experience):
This special week was founded by Shirley McClellan, the visionary owner of Fire & Smoke Cigar Parlor, and is a shining example of how women are driving empowerment and local community development through their leadership in the cigar industry.
This week-long celebration is more than just a series of events; it is a testament to the strength, determination, and creativity of women in the cigar industry. No tickets are required, no swag bags to purchase, just show up, support, and be a part of something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar lover or a newcomer to the community, this is your chance to connect with incredible women and celebrate their contributions to the premium cigar world.
This year edition “was fire”, offering a huge variety of events like a Meet and Greet at Petworth Cigars in Washington, DC, hosted by the dynamic Dyane Holt; a Cigar Paint and Sip night with Toni Wilkes, the owner of Spartan Cigar & Pipe Lounge in Elkton, MD or a Gatsby-themed Casino Night at Top Dollar Cigar Co. in Curtis Bay, MD, hosted by the ever-elegant Norlene All-SmilesCash, among other great events.
About Shirley McClellan
Can you share a bit about your background (education, your professional journey before cigars, etc.)?
I am a long time cigar lover and a professional entrepreneur. I earned a double BA degree in Business Administration and Management and hold an MSED in Education as well as a MBA in Business Organizational Studies.
How have your studies helped shape your career in the cigar industry?
I own Fire and Smoke Cigar Parlor, a true small business. My passion for lifelong learning and Master degrees in education and business help shape my ability to grow, be creative, overcome obstacles, and thrive in this industry.
Transitioning from an executive to an entrepreneur: Are there times you have regretted this decision?
I try to live without regrets. I take my lessons and my blessings and keep moving. I am sure it takes a very special person to be able to risk ups and downs … the brink of losing it all… and still believe in your vision, yourself, your ideals, and your ability to be successful. There are times I wished I did things differently, made different choices, but there is never a time that I regret opening my lounge.
Describe the most difficult challenge that a cigar lounge owner faces.
As with any business people are key. Finding TRUSTWORTHY staff and navigating positive experiences with people you choose to trust with your dream.
What would you like to say to both the big companies and boutique cigar companies in the industry?
Support small businesses. Let’s grow together.
What will you never compromise on with your business?
My integrity, morality, or ethics!
How would you define your character and personality? Can you highlight three key aspects of your personality?
I am a hard-working and driven individual who isn’t afraid to face a challenge. I’m passionate about my work and I know how to get the job done. I would describe myself as an open and honest person who doesn’t believe in misleading other people and tries to be fair in everything I do. I am creative, savvy, and methodical. I am risk taker yet adaptive.
How do you envision your future in the cigar industry?
I learned the hard way to move in silence… I am ready for whatever the cigar industry has for me in the future.
Can you tell us about Smoke with a Lady Boss Week?
I created Smoke With a Boss Lady Week to encourage collaboration. Collaboration happens at the top. Competition happens at the bottom. It is an initiative of support. Women in the culture supporting one another and an opportunity for our partners and patrons to support our businesses. Women have always been a vital part of the cigar culture, yet it is arguably a man’s world. In essence, Smoke With a Boss Lady Week is an opportunity to recognize hard working women in the cigar culture in MD and DC and support them and at the same time these owners get to build comradery that lasts a lifetime.
