For Samantha Record, known throughout the cigar community as The Saratoga Cigar Queen, a cigar has never been simply about smoking. It is about the people sitting around the table, the conversations that begin when a cigar is lit, and the relationships that continue long after the smoke has cleared.

Samantha’s introduction to cigars came through her grandfather. Watching his appreciation for them sparked her curiosity, and at 18 she began exploring cigars for herself. Over time, that early interest developed into a much deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, history, traditions, and personalities that make the cigar world what it is.

What began as a personal passion eventually became The Saratoga Cigar Queen, a platform through which Samantha shares cigar content, visits events, collaborates with brands and businesses, and connects with enthusiasts across the industry. Her growth in the cigar world has been built through consistency, dedication, and a willingness to keep learning.

“The relationships are my favorite part,” Samantha says when describing what she loves most about the cigar community.

For her, cigars have a unique ability to bring together people who may otherwise have little in common. Around a cigar, different backgrounds, careers, ages, and experiences can quickly give way to conversation and friendship. Some of Samantha’s favorite memories are not centered on one particular cigar, but on the people she has met along the way: attending events, meeting the individuals behind cigar brands, developing genuine friendships, and seeing her passion gradually create new opportunities within the industry.

That sense of connection also shapes the way Samantha approaches cigars themselves. She does not limit herself to one particular profile, pairing, or occasion. Sometimes a cigar is a quiet moment at the end of a long day. Other times, it is something shared with friends in a lively room filled with conversation. Exploring different cigars and pairings is part of the experience, because each one can create a different memory.

An especially important part of Samantha’s journey has been watching the growing presence of women in the cigar community. She is passionate about supporting other women and wants more of them to feel confident participating in every part of the industry.

Her message to women entering the cigar world is direct: “You belong here.”

Samantha believes women should never feel that they have to prove they deserve a seat at the table. Instead, she encourages them to educate themselves, understand the craft, build meaningful relationships, and remain true to who they are. Women, she says, have a place in the cigar industry not only as enthusiasts, but also as creators, educators, ambassadors, executives, and leaders.

“We’re stronger when we support and lift each other up.”

That philosophy is central to what Samantha hopes The Saratoga Cigar Queen will represent as it continues to grow. She wants the name to stand for confidence and authenticity, but also for community: women supporting women and people coming together through a shared appreciation for cigars.

Building her presence in the industry has required hard work and determination, and Samantha is grateful for the relationships and opportunities that have come from that effort. At the same time, she sees her journey as something that is still developing.

She is proud of how far she has come, but even more excited about what lies ahead.

For Samantha, the goal remains simple: to continue sharing a genuine love for cigars, celebrating the people behind them, and helping create a cigar community where more people feel welcome at the table.

Follow Samantha and The Saratoga Cigar Queen on Instagram at @thesaratoga.cigarqueen, where she shares cigar content, industry experiences, collaborations, events, and her continuing journey through the cigar world.