How many cigars do you need for a cigar bar at a wedding?

A cigar bar at a wedding can be a unique and memorable addition to the event, creating a sophisticated atmosphere where guests can unwind, mingle, and celebrate. But when it comes to planning, one of the most common questions is: how many cigars do you need for a cigar bar at a wedding? The answer depends on a few important factors, including the number of guests, the types of cigars you want to offer, and how much of a feature the cigar bar will be at your event. This article will guide you through these considerations and help you calculate how many cigars you'll need for your wedding.

Estimate the Number of Guests Who Will Use the Cigar Bar

Not every guest at your wedding will smoke cigars, and some may not partake in the cigar bar at all. Therefore, it’s important to estimate how many people will actually visit the cigar bar.

Typically, around 10-20% of your guests will smoke a cigar. However, this number could be higher depending on the crowd, the setting, and whether cigars are a cultural or traditional aspect of your event. For example, if you’re having a smaller, more intimate wedding with a group of cigar aficionados, more people may partake.

Let’s say you’re having a wedding with 100 guests. Using the 10-20% estimate, you can assume that 10 to 20 guests will smoke a cigar.

Consider Offering More Than One Cigar Per Guest

Some guests may want to smoke more than one cigar throughout the evening, especially if the cigar bar is available for several hours. If your wedding reception lasts five or six hours, or if cigars are offered after the dinner as guests linger, you’ll want to ensure there are enough cigars for multiple rounds of enjoyment.

A good rule of thumb is to provide 1.5 to 2 cigars per person who will use the cigar bar. This will allow for seconds for those who want more, while ensuring everyone who wants to partake gets at least one cigar.

If you estimate 15 guests will smoke, for instance, you should plan to have around 22 to 30 cigars available to accommodate those guests.

Choose a Range of Cigars for Your Guests

For a well-rounded cigar bar, it’s a good idea to offer a selection of cigars to cater to different tastes. Cigars come in various strengths and flavors, and not all of your guests will have the same preferences.

Here are some tips on how to build a good selection:

• Mild Cigars: Some guests, particularly those who don’t smoke often, may prefer a mild cigar. These are less intense and are generally easier to enjoy for newcomers.
• Medium Cigars: A medium cigar offers a bit more flavor and body, which might be preferred by more experienced smokers.
• Full-bodied Cigars: For the seasoned cigar smoker, a full-bodied cigar with robust flavors will be appreciated.

A good balance would be to offer a range of cigars: 40% mild, 40% medium, and 20% full-bodied. This way, you cater to a wide variety of guests without overloading the selection.

Incorporate Variety in Size and Shape

Cigars come in various shapes and sizes, and while most guests will be content with a standard selection, offering a variety adds an extra level of sophistication to your cigar bar. Some common cigar shapes and sizes include:

• Robusto: A popular size, about 5 inches long with a 50-ring gauge, offering a shorter smoke.
• Churchill: A longer cigar, typically about 7 inches, providing a more extended smoking experience.
• Torpedo: A cigar with a pointed end, offering a slightly different draw and often considered elegant.

By providing a few different shapes and sizes, you allow guests to choose a cigar that suits their personal preference or time commitment.

Budgeting for Your Cigar Bar

The cost of cigars can vary greatly depending on the quality and brand you choose. A single cigar can cost anywhere from $2 for a lower-end product to $20 or more for a premium cigar. Most weddings opt for cigars in the $5-$10 range, offering good quality without breaking the bank.

If you plan to purchase around 30 cigars for your wedding, you can expect to spend $150 to $300 on the cigars themselves. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of accessories such as cutters, lighters, and possibly even a professional to manage the cigar bar.

Cigar Bar Presentation and Accessories

Presentation matters when it comes to a cigar bar, so make sure to include the necessary accessories:

• Cigar cutters: These are essential for properly preparing a cigar for smoking. Have a few on hand for guests to use.
• Lighters or Matches: Provide enough lighters (preferably torch lighters for cigars) or long matches, as cigars require more flame than a typical cigarette.
• Ashtrays: Have a couple of large, classy ashtrays to encourage guests to properly dispose of ash and cigar butts.

Some couples choose to hire a cigar roller to add an interactive element to the bar. This person can roll fresh cigars on-site, which adds a touch of luxury and makes for a great spectacle during the event. Alternatively, you can also hire a cigar sommelier to offer advice and educate guests on the different cigars available.

Final Calculations

To summarize, here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating how many cigars you need:

1. Estimate guests: Expect about 10-20% of your guests to visit the cigar bar.
2. Determine cigars per person: Plan for about 1.5 to 2 cigars per person.
3. Offer variety: Provide a mix of mild, medium, and full-bodied cigars.
4. Budget: Expect to spend around $5 to $10 per cigar.
5. Extras: Don’t forget to budget for cutters, lighters, and ashtrays.

For a wedding with 100 guests, you can plan for 15 to 30 guests to visit the cigar bar, and offer 25 to 60 cigars. Having a range of cigars ensures there’s something for everyone, and providing two cigars per guest ensures those who want to smoke more than once can do so.

Conclusion

A cigar bar can elevate your wedding by offering a unique and sophisticated experience for guests. By planning carefully, selecting a good range of cigars, and ensuring you have enough for everyone who wants to partake, you can create a memorable feature that enhances the celebration.