Downtown Marion now has a place where cigar aficionados and pipe tobacco enthusiasts can gather to “relax, smoke and enjoy.â€
Located at 327A N. Logan St., Marion Cigar Shop seeks “to provide a unique and personalized cigar shopping experience that fosters community, education and appreciation for fine cigars,†the business’ mission statement says.
“We strive to build lasting relationships with our customers through knowledgeable service, tailored selections, and a welcoming environment that encourages exploration and conversation,†the statement says.
Marion Cigar Shop Managing Partner Tim Rayburn, left, and owner Shawn Parker stand outside the business at 327A N. Logan St. in Marion.
Marion Cigar Shop is owned by Shawn Parker. His wife Millie is the chief executive officer of the business. Tim Rayburn is the managing partner. He has previously operated similar cigar shops in Asheville and Hendersonville.
Now, they are bringing the experience to Marion. The new business opened on the Fourth of July.
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“I’ve enjoyed smoking cigars for about four years now,†Parker said. “I live here in Marion but I found it difficult to find cigars here.â€
Rayburn said enjoying fine cigars or a pipe is different from smoking cigarettes.
“Cigar smoking is a time commitment, and it is very much an action of relaxation and enjoyment,†Rayburn said. “This is not to satisfy a nicotine craving or something of that nature. It is a very community-oriented activity. People like to come in and spend time with other people.â€
Owner Shawn Parker, left, and Managing Partner Tim Rayburn stand inside the Marion Cigar Shop, which opened in early July.
Marion Cigar Shop offers high-quality cigars and pipe tobacco along with smoking accessories.
“We sell premium cigars,†Parker said. “They have no filters or altering chemicals and they are hand rolled.â€
Some of the cigar brands the business sells are Arturo Fuente, Padron, Rocky Patel, Oliva, Plasencia and Drew Estate. Parker said some people are unaware of the craftsmanship that goes into making hand-rolled cigars.
“We try to educate as well,†said Parker.
His wife Millie was the visionary behind then new business, according to the business’ website.
A photo inside the Marion Cigar Shop.
“Her mission is simple: to provide a refined yet down-to-earth space that celebrates good cigars, good people, and great conversation,†the website said.
Rayburn enjoys helping customers discover new blends, understand cigar profiles and find the perfect one for any occasion.
Covering 1,000 square feet, Marion Cigar Shop provides a warm atmosphere. There is a lounge area with comfortable chairs and a TV. The business will also host special events.
“We offer premium cigars and a pleasant, ventilated space to enjoy them,†said Rayburn. “We offer free coffee, free tea and soft drinks.â€
Some of the premium cigar brands the Marion Cigar Shop sells are Arturo Fuente, Padron, Rocky Patel, Oliva, Plasencia and Drew Estate.
Marion Cigar Shop is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
For more information, you can visit .
The Marion Cigar Shop has a lounge area with chairs and a TV. The business will also host special events.
Managing Partner Tim Rayburn, left, and owner Shawn Parker stand inside the business on North Logan Street.
