From our newest contributer at GCPuffs: GIRLS IN THE SHOP

 Girls in the shop

 

Now I've dabbled in cigar smoking off and on for years up until about 5 years ago when it became a full time hobby. Being an independent gal (more like stubborn) I often visit the cigar shops solo to stock up the humidor at home. I think most shops dread having a woman walk in. I really think some male staff just go into hate and panic mode. Having a girl in the shop just throws them off.  Probably because a lot of ladies will immediately complain about the smoke.  I mean seriously ladies, It's a smoke shop,  what did you expect ?

But on the flip side of that is the three questions a girl will always get asked when cigar shopping alone is "Are you looking for something for your husband?" "Are you looking for a gift?" "Are you looking for the flavored cigars or cigarettes?"  Ah yes, the joys of being a girl in the boys club. And I'm not even trying to intrude, i just like my cigars. My favorite thing to do is to look in the direction of the Acids and CAO Moontrance, nod at the sales clerk, and walk right by and grab a full bodied, big ring gauge and say "ooh, my favorite!" in my girliest voice possible.  That usually garners an eyebrow raise and on one occasion, a bow.  Typically it gives the hint for the clerk to back off, and by that I mean some shops train their employees to treat every customer as a thief so they're usually on my ass like a drunken prom date. I know it's a business guys, but at least give us the stripper rule; stay back 3 feet, no touching.

Now ladies, if you don't get defensive and just put your array of cigars on the counter, you'll get really good advice on what to smoke next and some respect on your next visit.  These men are experienced and know what they're doing. And ladies, you know you like your men experienced.  And gentlemen, give us a chance and ask us the questions you'd ask our male counterparts.  We may be the stereotypical lady shopping for our better half, or you may just be surprised at our answers.  

 

I'd like to give a warm welcome to our newest contributor RHGoddess. Its always a good to hear from another point of view from a SOTL. I hope you all will also welcome her to GCPuffs. I look forward to reading her posts. Thanks RHGoddess. ALL THE BEST SMOKINJOE