Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Townsend -Murff.
Hi Nicole, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My cigar journey began about 25 years ago when my father, a retired Army veteran, introduced me to the cigar culture and industry. Cigars were one of his favorite ways to relax and unwind, and through him, I developed an appreciation for the tradition, camaraderie, and craftsmanship that cigars represent.
My father was also a talented songwriter who contributed to music for the legendary Four Tops, including the classic song Ain’t No Woman (Like the One I’ve Got). Watching him enjoy a cigar while sharing stories, music, and life lessons sparked my own passion for the cigar lifestyle. What started as time spent with my father has grown into a lifelong journey that has now spanned more than two decades and evolved into a deep involvement within the cigar community and industry and now my brand Pretty While Puff N dedicated to SOTL & incorporates the love for my father in my logo with in infinity heart ❤️
My journey in the cigar industry has been both intentional and deeply personal, rooted in a genuine passion for craftsmanship, culture, and connection. As a Sales Lead and Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist, I have had the privilege of representing excellence every day at Casa De Montecristo, where luxury retail meets education and community.
In my role, I don’t just sell cigars—I guide experiences. I take pride in helping both new and seasoned enthusiasts discover the richness behind each blend, wrapper, and aging process. Becoming a Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist elevated my ability to educate with confidence and purpose, allowing me to bridge knowledge with service in a way that enhances every guest interaction.
What I love most about my work is the culture that surrounds it. The cigar industry is built on conversation, respect, and shared moments. Every customer interaction is an opportunity to connect, learn someone’s story, and create a memorable experience that goes beyond the product itself. I value the trust placed in me as a Sales Lead, and I take pride in leading with professionalism, product knowledge, and authenticity.
This journey is more than a career—it’s a reflection of my passion for excellence, my commitment to growth, and my dedication to elevating cigar culture one experience at a time.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s been a true pleasure overall, and one of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been the people I’ve met along the way. Working in the cigar industry has introduced me to seasoned professionals and longtime enthusiasts who have helped shape my understanding of the culture and elevated my appreciation for the craft.
While the experience has been very positive, like any career built on growth and learning, there have been moments that required adjustment—such as mastering product knowledge at a deep level, learning the nuances of customer preferences, and stepping into leadership responsibilities with confidence. Balancing education, service, and sales in a luxury retail environment also pushed me to consistently refine my communication and professionalism.
Even those challenges, though, have felt more like stepping stones than obstacles. They’ve contributed to my development as a Sales Lead and Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist, and they’ve strengthened my ability to deliver meaningful, knowledgeable experiences to every guest I engage with.
At the heart of it, the journey has been rewarding, enriching, and filled with genuine connections that continue to fuel my passion for the industry.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My journey in the cigar industry has been both intentional and deeply personal, rooted in a genuine passion for craftsmanship, culture, and connection. As a Sales Lead and Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist, I have had the privilege of representing excellence every day at Casa De Montecristo, where luxury retail meets education and community.
In my role, I don’t just sell cigars—I guide experiences. I take pride in helping both new and seasoned enthusiasts discover the richness behind each blend, wrapper, and aging process. Becoming a Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist elevated my ability to educate with confidence and purpose, allowing me to bridge knowledge with service in a way that enhances every guest interaction.
What I love most about my work is the culture that surrounds it. The cigar industry is built on conversation, respect, and shared moments. Every customer interaction is an opportunity to connect, learn someone’s story, and create a memorable experience that goes beyond the product itself. I value the trust placed in me as a Sales Lead, and I take pride in leading with professionalism, product knowledge, and authenticity.
This journey is more than a career—it’s a reflection of my passion for excellence, my commitment to growth, and my dedication to elevating cigar culture one experience at a time.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve had many mentors:
Monique Henderson, -Shade Cigar Cafe
Anastasia Psomiadi -SOTL Global Movement
Maya Alabi -Karen Berger Cigars
Anthony Allen -Casa De Montecristo
All have played an amazing role in my career and knowledge in the company cigar industry and personal everyday life!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pretty_while_puff_n
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Xk7vPPxUn/ and https://www.facebook.com/share/18KnCnktCB/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-murff-ccst-b4a93816/
