Taking the Baltimore and DC Cigar World by Storm: Women Entrepreneurs Ignite Change

Taking the Baltimore and DC Cigar World by Storm: Women Entrepreneurs Ignite Change



In the heart of Baltimore and Washington DC, a revolution is underway in the cigar industry. Four remarkable women have emerged as trailblazers, shattering glass ceilings and making their mark as owners of brick-and-mortar cigar lounges. Shirley McClellan, Dyane Johnson, Style'n Cigar, and Chereese "Reese" Brown are leading the charge, creating a unique imprint in an industry that has long been dominated by men. With their passion, resilience, and unwavering determination, these women are taking the Baltimore cigar world by storm.


Shirley McClellan - Fire & Smoke Cigar Parlor:

Shirley McClellan, a seasoned businesswoman, recognized a notable absence of African-American brick-and-mortar owners in the cigar industry, particularly among women. This realization inspired her to open her brick-and-mortar named Fire & Smoke Cigar Parlor in Baltimore MD (Fire and Smoke Cigar Parlor 6827a Loch Raven Blvd Towson Md) , six years ago. She aimed not only to establish a premium cigar lounge but also to break down cultural and industrial barriers. Shirley's journey in the cigar industry began as a young girl, captivated by her grandfather's cigar-smoking rituals on the front porch. Her love for tobacco, coupled with her desire to be an entrepreneur, drove her to visit cigar lounges worldwide, learning the key aspects of lounge ownership. Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, Shirley's resilience and adaptability have allowed her business to not only survive but thrive.

Dyane Johnson - Petworth Cigars:

Dyane Johnson, known as Lady Dyane at her own Petworth Cigars, made history as the first Black woman to own a cigar lounge in Washington DC. With a background in human capital, Dyane embarked on her entrepreneurial journey after retiring. While facing the challenges of building a business, she learned valuable lessons about the ever-changing nature of relationships and the importance of education and networking. Dyane empowers herself and those around her by offering educational opportunities about cigars, sharing her knowledge, and fostering a sense of community. Her vision is to expand the learning experience and enjoyment of cigars, maximizing her expertise in cigars and spirits.


Elizabeth - Style'n Cigar:

Style'n Cigar, a Baltimore native with West Indian roots, has seamlessly combined her love for cigars with her passion for style and fashion. As a style influencer and aficionado, she has challenged the perception of a male-dominated industry by showcasing her stylish looks and charismatic presence. Starting her cigar journey twelve years ago, Style'n Cigar faced initial surprise and skepticism from male cigar smokers. However, she thrived on the challenges, using compliments and positive energy to empower herself and other women. Style'n Cigar firmly believes that the presence of women in the cigar industry is transforming its image, and organizations like SOTL Global Movement play a vital role in supporting women cigar smokers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.


Chereese "Reese" Brown - Brown Leaf Cigar LLC:


Chereese "Reese" Brown, a medical coding and recovery specialist, embraced her passion for cigars alongside her husband to establish Brown Leaf Cigar LLC. With a strong work ethic and determination, Chereese climbed the ranks in the healthcare field while building her brand. Their dream of opening a cigar lounge, however, faced challenges with commercial realities and stereotypes. While her journey in the pursuit of a cigar lounge continues, her Cigar Group Brand named Brown Leaf Cigar, is already a reality. Chereese remains empowered through prayer and a positive attitude, encouraging the women around her to pursue their dreams and never give up. The Smoke with a Boss Lady initiative, initiated by Shirley McClellan, resonated with Chereese, and she hopes it will break down stereotypes, garner support for female-owned lounges, and inspire more women to become entrepreneurs in the cigar industry.

The Smoke with a Boss Lady Initiative:

The Smoke with a Boss Lady Week initiative, ingeniously conceptualized by the visionary Shirley McClellan, is an empowering and groundbreaking endeavor set to transform the cigar landscape in the vibrant Baltimore DMV area. Driven by a profound desire to shine a radiant spotlight on women cigar brand owners, this initiative seeks to celebrate their remarkable contributions and promote the essence of excellence that permeates through their lounges. By cultivating an environment that encourages appreciation for women-owned establishments and the extraordinary smoking experiences they offer, the initiative aspires to cultivate a newfound awareness that propels these businesses to unprecedented heights of success.

At its core, The Smoke with a Boss Lady Week initiative strives to attract a flourishing community of patrons, igniting a fervent movement that propels the growth of women-owned enterprises within the cigar industry. Imbued with a grand vision, the initiative beckons BOTLs (Brothers of the Leaf) and SOTLs (Sisters of the Leaf) from far and wide, extending an open invitation to unite in solidarity as they rally behind and honor the indomitable spirit of women in the cigar trade.

Organizations such as the SOTL Global Movement serve as essential allies in the realization of this noble mission. With their unwavering dedication to championing the cause of women-owned businesses, they lend their support by showcasing these thriving establishments, thereby amplifying their reach and visibility. By forging vital connections with esteemed cigar companies, the SOTL Global Movement facilitates invaluable partnerships that bestow an array of resources and support to women entrepreneurs, fostering an environment where their growth knows no bounds.


The Smoke with a Boss Lady Week initiative represents more than just a gathering; it signifies a profound movement that seeks to reshape the narrative surrounding women in the cigar industry. Through its passionate pursuit of recognition and support, this initiative is poised to establish a lasting legacy, wherein women cigar brand owners are revered for their expertise, creativity, and undeniable contribution to an industry steeped in tradition. With every draw and each plume of fragrant smoke, The Smoke with a Boss Lady Week initiative invites enthusiasts and newcomers alike to bear witness to the brilliance that radiates from these captivating lounges, forever altering the landscape and perceptions of the cigar world.

These four extraordinary women are making waves in the Baltimore cigar world. Through their entrepreneurial spirit, love for cigars, and unwavering determination, they are shattering stereotypes and paving the way for future generations of women in the industry. Shirley McClellan, Dyane Johnson, Style'n Cigar, and Chereese "Reese" Brown have shown that passion, resilience, and community support are the keys to success. As they continue to thrive and uplift one another, their impact will be felt not only in Baltimore but across the entire cigar industry. The smoke-filled future they are shaping is one of diversity, empowerment, and inclusivity, and the world is taking notice.