Tips and Ideas for a Wedding Day Cigar Bar – MassNews

Traditional weddings offer open bars and hors d’oeuvres to keep guests entertained but a cigar bar creates a whole new experience. This refined amenity encourages guests to partake in the festivities during the reception. Cigar bars can be decorated based on the wedding decor and will add a sophisticated touch to your big day. Impress your guests on the day of your union with these cigar bar tips and ideas.

Discuss smoking with the venue

Before setting your heart on a cigar bar, discuss your ideas with the venue. Some venues prohibit smoking whereas others allow smoking only in designated areas. Be sure that smoking is permitted outdoors. If not, you may need to scrap the idea altogether or opt for offering cigars as take-home party favors instead.

Choose the perfect area for the cigar bar

Once you have the go-ahead from the venue, take a tour around and scope out the perfect place for a cigar bar. The area should be outdoors and away from entrances and exits (some guests might be sensitive to tobacco smoke). Many venues have outdoor fireplaces, sensational views, or outdoor patios that would be perfect places to enjoy a flavorful cigar.

Begin planning your decorations

A cigar bar at a wedding should be set up in a designated smoking area. There should be a sign indicating its location. A large “Cigar Bar” or “Cigars” sign would alert guests to the area. The sign can be decorated to fit in with the rest of the wedding decor or even lit up with lights or candles to shine during the night.

Check with the venue to see if they can set up tables for the cigar bar. The most basic requirement is a table that is at least four feet long. The table can be set with a tablecloth and runner to match the wedding decor as well as items such as wooden crates, chests, and candles. Additionally, you could set up glass containers filled with complimentary personalized matchboxes.

If the venue does not allow smoking on the premises, the cigar station can be set up with “to-go” gift bags filled with cigars, matches, mini cigar cutters, and a lighter.

Pick your cigars

Not all cigars are treated equally. Weddings are special occasions so premium cigars are often the go-to choice for a cigar bar. Brands such as Padron or Arturo Fuente are top-shelf, but they aren’t the only quality cigars out there. Cuban cigar brands, including Cohiba, are not as expensive as premium brands but are still well-known for their quality and flavor.

If you’re looking for something more affordable, consider a single cigar brand in a mild blend. When offering only one type of cigar, mild strength cigars are perfect for non-smokers and seasoned-smokers alike. You can also purchase bundles from big (yet affordable) name brands at a discount price if you have a large wedding.

Finally, you’ll want to keep the cigars fresh. Nothing is worse than a stale cigar. Cigars need to be kept in a humidor to maintain flavor and allow them to burn perfectly. If your wedding is a long way away, wait to purchase the cigars until you’re closer to the big day (unless you have a humidor large enough to store them properly).

Don’t forget the accessories

Cigars aren’t the only thing you’ll need.

It would be a shame to offer a cigar bar but leave guests with no way to light them. The cigar station should include cigar cutters, lighters, matches, and ashtrays. If the weather is a bit breezy, matches may not be the best option. Keep a few butane lighters at the cigar bar in case matches aren’t enough.

You’ll want to display your cigars in a way that matches your wedding decor. Small, portable wooden humidors are practical and aesthetically pleasing. Alternatively, you can display the cigars in wooden crates or fancy plates.

Consider hiring a tobacconist or cigar roller

If you’re looking to provide your guests with a more sophisticated experience, considering hiring a cigar roller or experienced tobacconist. These experts are well-versed in the art of cigar-rolling and cigar education. They can discuss cigars with your guests, cut, light, and even roll cigars at the cigar station.

Craft a beverage that pairs well with your cigars

Take things up a notch by having a bartender craft a specific drink that pairs beautifully with the cigars you chose. Some good spirits to start with include dark liquors such as aged whiskey, scotch, bourbon, or cognac.

A cigar bar at a wedding is a unique way to create a sophisticated experience for your guests. It’s a way to personally involve the guests in the festivities and bring them together to celebrate your union.

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