Today we’d like to introduce you to Juanita Rojas.
Juanita, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a 42 sister of the leaf (SOTL) from Dallas, Texas. I was a former Preschool teacher turned Tobacconist and Cigar Rolling Event Planner. I started my love affair with cigars ten years ago in “ City Cigars.“ The owner Papi made a novice like me welcomed in this new cigar lifestyle. Being a female, I felt overwhelmed in an industry dominated by gentleman. Papi changed all that. He took the time to show me how to pick, cut, and light a cigar.
I hate to admit but the first time lit the wrong end, Papi always encouraging” It’s ok Mami, it’s ok Mami!” I still reminder the smell of the Cuban coffee he would make you as you step in the humidor. It was like cigar heaven on earth. I began going to enjoy a cigar with my boyfriend at the time Dr. Derrick Askins. Who was a dentist that works on 4 floor @ Williams Dental.
On one particular Friday waiting for Derrick to finish his day. Cozi, the manager, said wait today was a Cuban Happy Hour. Cuban home made by Papi’s mother-in-law came in by Papi himself. It passed before my eyes. So the cigar heaven turned into lil Cuba. Music by Celia Cruz and handmade mojitos from Papi himself. In time I became part of this my cigar family.
I became a regular at City’s and fell in love with the sense of community… There was a “oneness” among all the customers. It was beautiful to be part of something so special. My love story with cigars had begun.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Yes/No. I know yes because I am women in a male-dominated industry. I have had moments when a gentleman just based on me wearing a dress; assume that I have no knowledge base on premium cigars, pipes or pipe Tobacco. Ironically, when they take the time to watch & listen. Yes, I am a female who is smoking a Davidoff cigar and can answer your questions.
In the end, the gentleman will smile say, “well what cigar would you recommend?” No, due to my personal knowledge learned from my fellow cigarians, thru the years. What would I have done without my former co-workers Rich, and Joey (combined 40 yrs experience) in the cigar industry. Knowledgeable Scott, Marcos and owner Elliott of Cigar Warehouse.
Finally, to the rest of my cigar family; Robert who taught me how to smoke a pipe Tobacco. John who taught me a new found love for Padron Cigars. T&T who recently has given me a love for cigar pokers and clips. Also, Thanks to Alex who has believed in me from day one — never doubting always encouraging me to do & be my best. Never giving up on me.
It does not hurt that I have a passion to learn new things and still to teach. I stay humble and teachable. I do not know everything but I willing to learn from all. I also have years of experience working as a Tobacconist. I am also currently enrolled in Tobacco University’s retail accreditation program to earn my official certification. (CRT)
Cigarmami with Mario Cigars – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Chapter two with my love of leaf begins now.
CigarMami with Mario Cigars.
I am known as CigarMami on my IG. I have combined with Mario Cigars to cater to private, and exclusive cigar rolling events. From weddings, golf tournaments, corporate events even birthday parties. Nothing is too small or big. I always say “ Cigars make everything better!”
What will set us apart is our attention to detail, making the event so special that you will always remember the flavor, taste, smell of your custom Mario Cigar. You will remember the ambiance and that Cigarmami was cutting and lighting your cigars. If a quick Cigar 101 is needed, I will be available to help educate guests.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success??? It is similar in my opinion, like having a favorite cigar. Some say Cuban cigars are the best there elusiveness and cost.
To me, my favorite cigar will be the cigar that I had on my wedding day, with friends, or alone. In my journey, I search for happiness. Happiness of self and to find and bring happiness to others.
When I taught four-five years old, the teacher was taught by the students, “Happiness.” I am not saying that everyday I will be riding a magical unicorn smiling & leaving glitter in my path smoking a cigar.
In this cigar, adventure success will be? In my opinion. For the customers to share happiness with a Mario Cigar. The cigar will be a sign of celebration of achievement or simply relaxation.
A memory that will forever be treasured in their hearts for us that is success. Human Connection. The love of the leaf.
Pricing:
- Weddings, golf tournaments, and corporate events start $125 3hrs min A min of 100 cigars at 10 each.
- Happy Hour Hours & Price Varies Min of 150 cigars ( premade) $6-10
Contact Info:
- Phone: 214-444-MAMI(6264)
- Email: bosoxro12@yahoo.com
- Instagram: Cigarmami
Image Credit:
Juanita Rojas, Mario Almanza, Ultimate Cigar Party
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
