On Friday night, I had the pleasure of attending a cigar sampling event at London’s JJ Fox cigar merchant to celebrate the first year anniversary of the UK Aficionadas — a growing community of women passionate about cigars.

The timing felt especially fitting as the celebration coincided with International Women’s Day, a moment dedicated to recognising the achievements of women around the globe.

In a cigar scene traditionally associated with men, we’re seeing a significant shift. Women are not only enjoying cigars in increasing numbers, but they’re also playing a crucial role in shaping the culture. From growers and blenders to brand owners, retailers, writers, and passionate enthusiasts, women have been making their mark for quite some time — though their contributions haven’t always been celebrated as they should be. The UK Aficionadas aim to continue elevating and empowering the presence of women in the UK cigar scene by creating space, opportunities, and greater visibility for those who share a passion for the leaf.

The evening was hosted by Amy, Yeni and Tuba, who, over the past year, have organised a series of gatherings with the other members of the group – including venues such as Boisdales of Canary Wharf, Ellen’s Hotel, City of London Cigars and now JJ Fox.

Many of these have been women-only events, designed to provide a comfortable environment where female enthusiasts and connoisseurs can explore cigars, learn about the craft, and connect with others who share the same passion. Friday’s event allowed some of us fellas to join.

Ken from Casa Carrillo and Isabel from Dalmore Whisky, as well as Her Excellency Rosa Margarita Hernández de Grullón, the Ambassador of the Dominican Republic to the United Kingdom were also present at the event.

It was wonderful reconnecting with Rosa after attending the ProCigar Festival in the Dominican Republic. I shared with her how much I loved her country on my recent visit there 🇩🇴 and how amazing the experience was 🙏.

We sampled the Casa Carrillo by E.P. Carrillo Endure cigar.

“Endure” represents the convergence of two iconic legacies. The Perez-Carrillo family’s journey from Cuba to the U.S. is a testament to their passion and perseverance in preserving cigar excellence. Meanwhile, the Meerapfel family’s pivotal role in saving the Meerapfel Cameroon wrapper adds a layer of dedication and resilience to this blend.

This cigar is a narrative of overcoming adversity, from the fields of Meerapfel Cameroon to the hands of artisans, culminating in a masterpiece that celebrates the triumph of the human spirit.

The details:

Length: 5″

Ring Gauge: 50

Strength: Medium

Vitola: Robusto

Wrapper: Meerapfel Cameroon

Binder: Nicaragua

Filler: Nicaragua

This was paired with samples of Dalmore Whisky – the Cigar Malt, the 18-Year-Old, and the King Alexander 👌.

David Kelaty of Mantis Accessories also donated several accessories to the event.

The group’s history

Formerly known as the UK Ladies Aficionadas, the group rebranded as the UK Aficionadas with a simple but powerful goal: to create a welcoming community where women can enjoy cigars without feeling like outsiders in what has traditionally been seen as a “gentleman’s” pastime.

For many women in the cigar world, the experience can sometimes feel isolating. Some describe walking into lounges or cigar shops and feeling like a rarity — almost a novelty. The UK Aficionadas aim to change that narrative by building a supportive network and a visible presence within the industry.

The aim’s of the group

The ladies aim to:

Create safe and welcoming spaces
Whether someone is an experienced smoker or just cigar-curious, the group encourages women to explore cigars without judgment.

Learn and discover
Future plans include masterclasses covering cigar regions, flavour profiles, pairing sessions (including non-alcoholic pairings like tea and coffee), and even cigar-rolling demonstrations.

Support women across the industry
Future plans include masterclasses covering cigar regions, flavour profiles, pairing sessions (including non-alcoholic pairings like tea and coffee), and even cigar-rolling demonstrations.

Build strong networks
Members actively support women-led businesses, including those connected to cigars such as whisky, fragrance, and luxury hospitality.

By coming together, the group demonstrates that female cigar enthusiasts are not a niche; they are a growing and influential part of the global cigar community.

Challenging assumptions, building support

Despite the progress being made, women in the cigar world still face occasional challenges.

Many members, during a chat with Light Em Up Lounge, recall experiences where shop staff automatically assumed they wanted a small, mild, or flavoured cigar, rather than asking about their true preferences. Yet, interestingly, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that many women enjoy larger ring-gauge cigars and fuller flavour profiles.

The key issue isn’t preference — it’s assumption.

That’s where community support makes a difference. Through group chats, events, and meetups, members encourage each other to smoke what they truly enjoy. What might feel intimidating alone becomes empowering when shared with others who understand the experience.

How cigar retailers and lounges can be more inclusive

The UK Aficionadas also have thoughtful suggestions for how cigar retailers and lounges can better welcome a broader audience. Their recommendations are simple:

• Ask open-ended questions rather than assuming a customer’s experience level.
• Focus on the overall atmosphere — lighting, music, comfort, and cleanliness all matter.
• Create welcoming spaces for everyone, not just men.
• Invest in staff education so employees treat every customer as knowledgeable and passionate.

These small changes can make cigar spaces feel far more inclusive without changing the essence of the culture itself.

Some of their members

Sarah Saunders

A major inspiration for many members, Sarah founded the Women’s International Cigar Club in 2009. After years of travelling to Cuba and meeting influential figures in the cigar world, she realised women who enjoyed cigars were rarely visible beyond stereotypes. Her mission became changing that perception. Her first memorable cigar—a Trinidad Lancero — remains a favourite when she can find one.

Tatiana

With more than 15 years in the tobacco industry, Tatiana has worked across both UK and international markets, including roles at Habanos S.A. and Hunters & Frankau. She now serves as Secretary General of the Imported Tobacco Products Advisory Council, advocating for cigars within ongoing tobacco legislation discussions.

Yeni

Born in Cuba, Yeni smoked her first cigar — a Montecristo Edmundo — at 19. Her passion deepened while studying journalism in Spain, and she now works as Head of Cigars at The Garden Room at The Lanesborough.

Alexa

Coming from a family deeply connected to tobacco, Alexa grew up surrounded by the aroma and culture of cigars. Inspired by her father and brother’s work in the industry, she now approaches tobacco as both an art form and a cultural legacy. She works at Tom Tom Cigars.

The future of the community

The UK Aficionadas are just getting started. Plans are already underway to expand the group with structured memberships, educational events, and more curated cigar experiences across the UK. Their goal isn’t to replace existing cigar culture — it’s to expand it and make it more welcoming for everyone.

The cigar world is like a family. The mission isn’t to divide it — but to ensure everyone who loves cigars feels they belong.

Want to get involved?

If you’re a woman who enjoys cigars — or you’re simply curious about them — the UK Aficionadas community is a fantastic place to start. It’s welcoming, knowledgeable, and full of passionate people eager to share the experience.

Reach out to them on Instagram at instagram.com/uk_aficionadas