Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Professional Backgrounds:
Eileen Arroyo Colon, who has been involved in the cigar industry since 2012, works as a representative for several cigar brands and manages her own brand, Mia Cigars.
Fermin Perez has been producing cigars for approximately five years and owns a factory in Nicaragua, which now includes a lounge for visitors.
The Cigar Industry in Puerto Rico:
Fermin Perez’s brand has seen success in Puerto Rico, and Eileen Arroyo Colon plays a significant role in promoting and representing brands there.
The cigar community in Puerto Rico is described as a tight-knit "family" that is growing, with a focus on education and experiential events like "master blending" sessions.
Luis "Vito" Marquez, owner of Marquez Cigar—a prominent retailer and wholesaler in Puerto Rico—is introduced, highlighting the industry's collaborative energy.
Industry Recognition and Philosophy:
Fermin Perez’s brand recently received recognition, including being named a "boutique brand of the year" and achieving 90-point ratings from publications like Cigar Snob and Cigar Journal.
The participants discuss the importance of accessibility in pricing, with one featured cigar retailing at $8.
Brand Experience and Lifestyle:
The speakers emphasize that their work involves more than just selling products; it is about building friendships, fostering a lifestyle, and providing an "experience" that includes pairings with spirits like bourbon and chocolate.
Eileen Arroyo Colon is praised for her enthusiastic and informative social media presence, which helps normalize and celebrate cigar culture.
Professional Backgrounds:
Eileen Arroyo Colon, who has been involved in the cigar industry since 2012, works as a representative for several cigar brands and manages her own brand, Mia Cigars.
Fermin Perez has been producing cigars for approximately five years and owns a factory in Nicaragua, which now includes a lounge for visitors.
The Cigar Industry in Puerto Rico:
Fermin Perez’s brand has seen success in Puerto Rico, and Eileen Arroyo Colon plays a significant role in promoting and representing brands there.
The cigar community in Puerto Rico is described as a tight-knit "family" that is growing, with a focus on education and experiential events like "master blending" sessions.
Luis "Vito" Marquez, owner of Marquez Cigar—a prominent retailer and wholesaler in Puerto Rico—is introduced, highlighting the industry's collaborative energy.
Industry Recognition and Philosophy:
Fermin Perez’s brand recently received recognition, including being named a "boutique brand of the year" and achieving 90-point ratings from publications like Cigar Snob and Cigar Journal.
The participants discuss the importance of accessibility in pricing, with one featured cigar retailing at $8.
Brand Experience and Lifestyle:
The speakers emphasize that their work involves more than just selling products; it is about building friendships, fostering a lifestyle, and providing an "experience" that includes pairings with spirits like bourbon and chocolate.
Eileen Arroyo Colon is praised for her enthusiastic and informative social media presence, which helps normalize and celebrate cigar culture.
