If there is one thing that is proven time and again, it’s that women can really do anything. In honor of International Women’s Day (Wednesday, March 8), Heather Lennon, founder and owner of Raconteuse Cigars in Phoenix, is offering tips and suggestions for women interested in cigar smoking, a typically male-dominated activity — though one she says is very welcoming to women as well.

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Lennon herself has been a cigar enthusiast for decades. And throughout her travels, she has always sought out cigar lounges in the cities she visits. Why? Because she says the cigar-smoking community is one of brotherhood — and sisterhood.

“I know that when I travel and especially when I travel alone, I can always find my community at a cigar lounge,” says Lennon. “I can meet people and have intelligent conversations with all different types of people. The cigar community is not exclusionary.”

She wants women that are just getting into smoking cigars to know that they are always welcome in this community. She encourages them to do a little research, then go into cigar lounges or retailer and ask questions.

She also suggests that women start out with a mild cigar and one that is non-flavored. For example, she doesn’t want women to feel like they have start out with a flavored cigar, such as blueberry, rather than learning to enjoy a cigar for its natural tobacco flavors and tasting notes.

“A knowledgeable retailer can offer advice on ones to try and hopefully they won’t just suggest a flavored variety,” she says, adding ultimately there is no right or wrong when it comes to a cigar-smoker’s palette. “It’s very personal — just like your favorite flavor of ice cream.”

She also notes that one need not get hung up on a specific brand. There are so many small boutique brands and such a wide variety of selections that there is no reason to limit oneself to a single brand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with various flavor profiles and different brands.

Lennon adds that that cigar smoking is very much a social activity. One that is best done in community and as a way to connect with friends old and new.

Lennon is available for speak further on these cigar-smoking tips for women and novices for news stories and television segments, during which media are also invited to tour Raconteuse Cigars.

For more about Raconteuse Cigars, visit warehouse215.com/about-raconteuse-cigars.