Daily Inspiration: Meet Paula Knight

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Knight.

Hi Paula, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Well, my story began in 2016. I was on a date with a gentleman who smoked cigars. Being the Aquarian that I am, I was NOT going to let on that I had no clue when he asked me if I smoked. I thought I had bluffed my way through. MAJOR FAIL! LOL But one thing that did happen was that I immediately fell in love with the cigar, and the more I learned about it, I fell for the cigar culture as well.

As I grew, I discovered that cigar smoking is not just the act of smoking. It’s more of an EXPERIENCE because first, you start by selecting a cigar, then you determine how much time you have to savor your selection. Finally, once you pair it with that just right beverage, you can sit back, relax and take in a pleasurable and relaxing ride. Cigar smokers are nodding their heads right now because they know exactly what I’m talking about.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Cigar smoking, per se, has been historically predominantly viewed as a male-dominant activity inside a masculine-driven industry. But, as a female sister of the leaf (sotl), I wanted to alter that perspective and provide a prominent view of ladies who enjoy the cigar culture while still maintaining our sexy, classy femininity, which is the concept behind my company slogan “Smoke Classy”.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
About Fumée Chic: Fumée Chic is a cigar lifestyle concierge that provides apparel and accessories to enhance your cigar experience. I believe in living life to the fullest, and the best way to do that is with a great cigar, paired with a glass of wine and amazing convo while keeping it CLASSY.

About The Owner, Paula Knight: Known for her smile, you can feel Paula’s genuine glow from within when you meet her. She is a Cigar Enthusiast who is passionate about inspiring Ladies and ALL to join the cigar community. She fell in love with cigars after lighting her first one over six years ago and has been hooked on enjoying and growing her cigar knowledge ever since. You can count on Paula to bring the CLASSY, from sporting stylish apparel and accessories to hosting engaging & informative cigar socials, Fumée Chic guarantees to assist in creating a stimulating cigar experience. And there’s never a better time than now!

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have been quite blessed in that Instagram and Facebook cigar groups have so readily embraced me into The Culture with open arms. Posting and interacting within these platforms have proven to be highly successful forms of networking. Additionally, whenever I travel, I make it a point to find and stop by a cigar lounge. I’ll post about the experience; take photos with the people I meet and keep the best ones in my files to suggest to other cigar enthusiasts who often ask me for suggestions on lounges to visit in various cities. Another thing about mentoring and networking is that I have been fortunate to meet so many nice people, male and female, who haven’t minded answering my questions and guiding me in my growth. Like anything else, it takes us all working together. If you don’t know something, ask. It’s no harm in that. Cigar smokers have been some of the most wonderful persons I’ve met.

Since some people reading this article may be newbies to the cigar culture, if you don’t mind, I would like to end this interview with five helpful tips just for them.

1. Be open-minded to suggestions because it takes a moment for you to dial into your own preferences. But don’t worry; as you smoke, you’ll learn what you do and do not like.

2. Because tobaccos have so many different characteristics, try different origins and sizes. As your palate develops, so will your appreciation of strengths and flavor profiles.

3. As mentioned earlier. Cigar aficionados are a polite and knowledgeable bunch. Ask for their thoughts and recommendations

4. Just like pairing food with wine, complement your cigar with your favorite drink. Remember to choose wisely so that one will not overpower the other.

5. Relax. Enjoy. Smoke Classy! Cigars are a commitment to relaxation and are to be savored, explored and enjoyed slowly – and in good company!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.fumeechic.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/fumeechic
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/fumeechic
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/FumeeChic
• Other: www.pinterest.com/fumeechic.com

Image Credits
Paula Knight-Osborne Joseph A. Newton