For many, a cigar is simply a smoke—a ritual to mark a moment. For Courtney, (“@c_douglas00”) it’s much more than that. From the quiet mornings on a South Carolina farm to the lounges of the world’s most storied cities, her journey with cigars has been one of discovery, craftsmanship, and connection. Through travel, discipline, and a deep appreciation for flavor, Courtney has found in cigars a gateway to reflection, celebration, and a global community that spans continents.
Q: Courtney, let’s start at the beginning. Tell us a little about your background and the journey that eventually brought you into the world of cigars.
A: I grew up on a small farm in South Carolina, the youngest of 6. I joined the military immediately after college, then government service which led me to traveling the world and experiencing cigar culture around the world.
Q: Every cigar enthusiast remembers the one that really changed things for them—the cigar that made them stop and realize there was something deeper happening in the smoke. Do you remember the first cigar that gave you that moment? What made it stand out?
A: Yes! It was a Liga Privada .9, that was the first cigar that I truly tasted the notes and the flavors. That cigar is very well structured and and almost forces you to appreciate the craftsmanship.
Q: For many people, cigars become more than just a pastime—they represent a moment of pause in an otherwise busy world. When you sit down with a cigar, what does that ritual represent for you personally?
A: All of the above actually. Pausing to enjoy a cigar for me slows life down for a moment. While you’re enjoying your smoke you allow your self to relax, reflect, be appreciative of the moment.
Q: Cigars and whiskey have long shared a special relationship. Over time many aficionados develop a pairing that feels almost ritualistic. Do you have a go-to cigar and whiskey combination that never fails you?
A: I do. I’m a big fan of Uncle Nearest 1884 usually paired with an Arturo Fuente Hemingway. This pairing is my absolutely favorite for celebrations.
Q: Part of the cigar lounge experience is the sense of presence and style that surrounds it. When you head out for a smoke, how would you describe your personal style and the way you like to present yourself in that environment?
A: I always like to visit lounges with an elevated wardrobe. I personally like to wear a suit or a blazer with jeans at a minimum. I also like to have on a nice watch. The suits and the timepieces usually foster conversations which are essential in lounges in my opinion.
Q: Paint the picture for us—what does the perfect cigar moment look like for you? The setting, the drink, and the company around you.
A: The ideal moment is the bonding between fellow cigar lovers. A group of like minded people sharing a smoke, conversing, and just enjoying the moment with an old fashioned cocktail. For me that’s a great night.
Q: Some cigar lovers treat the experience as a quiet personal ritual, while others thrive on the social atmosphere of a lounge. Where do you find yourself most at home in the cigar world?
A: A bit of both. I enjoy a morning smoke on my balcony at home before I start my day. I usually don’t share that time with anyone. In the evenings I really enjoy visiting lounges and connecting with friends and other cigar smokers. Also meeting new friends who share the appreciation of a good smoke.
Q: The Cigar Smoking World Championship being hosted in Africa marks a major milestone for the global cigar community. As someone directly involved, what does this moment mean to you personally?
A: It means the world to me being a part of the team that introduces CSWC to Africa. When I relocated to Kenya I noticed the potential immediately and wanted to help bridge the gap to the cigar community. I hope to help shine light on both the beauty of the global cigar culture to Kenya. My goal is to keep expanding throughout Africa and share the amazing experience of CSWC.
Q: Having traveled and experienced cigar lounges in different parts of the world, you’ve probably noticed that every region has its own personality when it comes to cigar culture. What differences have stood out to you the most?
A: Absolutely. Through my work I’ve lived in several different nations around the world. One thing that stands out is the humidors. I’ve visited lounges that won’t allow guests to enter the humidors and other who will toss you the key to walk around.
Q: For someone who is just beginning their journey into cigars, the learning curve can be steep. Looking back, what’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you early on?
A: Cigar etiquette! When I first started smoking I didn’t know how to properly enjoy a cigar. I smoked too fast, asked way too much, even made the horrible mistake of inhaling. I’d also advise to try everything not just the known brands. There are some great smokes that are just not popular.
Q: Beyond the cigar itself—the wrapper, the blend, the craftsmanship—what do you think truly defines a great cigar aficionado?
A: Someone who’s not afraid to still learn. One thing I always say, the more I learn the more I realize what I don’t know.
Q: Cigars often carry a sense of timeless style. Do you think the way someone dresses or carries themselves contributes to the atmosphere of a cigar lounge, and how does your own style fit into that environment?
A: I think cigars are the great equalizer no matter someone’s style of dress, the cigars represent a vehicle to fellowship and conversation. However I do believe in a dress code when visiting a lounge. My style is relaxed business casual. I’m usually in a suit but I’ll remove my tie.
Q: Finally, if someone walked into a lounge tonight and you wanted to introduce them to your personal cigar style, what cigar and whiskey would you place in their hands first?
A: I’d start with a basic pairing a Plasencia reserva original with jack Daniels.
Cigars, like life, are meant to be savored slowly, with intention and presence. For Courtney, every smoke carries a story, a connection, and a lesson still waiting to be learned. Whether it’s a morning ritual alone on a balcony or a spirited conversation in a lounge, she embodies the essence of the modern aficionado: curious, refined, and always ready to share the experience with those who appreciate the craft. In the world of cigars, her journey reminds us that it’s not just the smoke, but the moments it creates, that make the ritual unforgettable.
