Spring Street Cigars in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, offers more than just a place to buy premium cigars—it’s a hub for culture, relaxation, and community. The shop prides itself on creating a welcoming environment where anyone, from novice smokers to seasoned aficionados, can feel at home. Guests can browse an extensive humidor filled with top-tier cigars, grab a drink from the fully stocked bar, and enjoy watching sports on large-screen TVs.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the shop features a private membership club section, offering a secluded and comfortable space for members to unwind, network, and connect with others who share a passion for cigars. Whether you’re there to socialize, learn about cigars, or simply find your moment of peace, Spring Street Cigars provides an inviting atmosphere that blends tradition with modern luxury.

Smoking cigars is more than just a hobby—it's a journey that spans years of learning, tasting, and experiencing different blends and cultures. Darrell Reese Jr. sat down with Teddy, the manager of Spring Street Cigars in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to explore the world of cigars, from beginner mistakes to the art of pairing cigars with drinks and food.
During their conversation, Teddy shared his wealth of knowledge and insights into the rich culture of cigars. Here’s what Darrell and Teddy discussed about the journey of cigar smoking and the experiences that come with it.

Teddy's Cigar Journey: From Beginner to Connoisseur
Teddy's journey into the world of cigars began in 2002, shortly after he left the National Guard. At first, like many new smokers, he didn’t know much about the cigar culture—he was simply given cigars, had them cut and lit for him, and smoked them without much thought. However, as he grew more experienced, he began to learn the ins and outs of cigar smoking.
"You don't pick your best cigar on the first day," Teddy explains. The more he smoked, the more he discovered the subtle nuances of the craft. He began learning how to properly cut a cigar, whether it was with a punch, a straight cut, or his personal favorite, the V-cut. With time, he gained a deeper understanding of the different types of cigar blends: light, medium, and dark.
The Art of Cigar Cuts
Teddy emphasizes the importance of learning how to properly cut a cigar. While many might assume that simply lighting a cigar and smoking it is enough, proper preparation enhances the entire experience. Here’s a brief rundown of the different ways to cut a cigar:
Punch Cut: A small hole is punched into the cap of the cigar, which provides a smooth draw.
Straight Cut: The cap is snipped off in a straight line, allowing for an open and easy draw.
V-Cut: This cut creates a “V” shape at the end of the cigar, providing a more concentrated draw and flavor experience.
Each type of cut affects the way the cigar smokes, and experimenting with different cuts is part of the journey to finding what works best for you.
Exploring Different Cigar Blends
Cigars come in a variety of blends, each offering different flavor profiles. Beginners might start with milder blends, but over time, as you become more accustomed to smoking cigars, you’ll develop a preference for different flavors, such as medium and dark blends.
“Each blend transitions over to what you like to drink,” Teddy notes. Cigars pair well with just about anything—whether you're sipping on soda, water, wine, bourbon, or scotch. The key is to match the strength of your cigar with your drink of choice. A light cigar pairs well with a light drink, while darker, fuller cigars go hand-in-hand with stronger spirits like bourbon or scotch.
The Best Cigar Knowledge Comes From the Community
Teddy shares a vital piece of wisdom: the best cigar knowledge doesn’t just come from books or online sources—it’s often passed down from person to person in the cigar lounge.
“The best cigar knowledge is gained from other people inside the shop,” he says. Whether it’s through conversations with regulars or learning from the experiences of other cigar enthusiasts, the cigar community is an incredible source of knowledge. And while tools like Cigar Scanner—an app that shows you what cigars people are smoking and their reviews—can certainly help, the true knowledge comes from the connections you make with fellow smokers.
Magnolia Cigars: The House Blend
When you walk into Spring Street Cigars, one of the most popular cigars to try is their very own house brand—Magnolia Cigars. These cigars, made in Honduras, come in several different styles, from light to full-bodied:
Connecticut: A milder, smooth smoke, perfect for beginners.
Habano: A medium-bodied cigar with a slightly spicier flavor.
Cameroon: Known for its unique sweetness and smoothness.
Maduro: A dark, rich, full-bodied blend with a bold flavor.
These cigars have become staples at Spring Street Cigars, and whether you’re new to cigars or a seasoned smoker, trying a Magnolia blend is a must.

Creating a Welcoming Space: The Cigar Shop Experience
Teddy prides himself on creating a welcoming and educational environment at Spring Street Cigars. When you walk into the shop, the staff greets you and takes the time to understand what you like. Whether you're a first-time smoker or a seasoned enthusiast, they’ll guide you through the selection process, helping you find the perfect cigar based on your preferences. It’s all about making customers feel at home, educating them about the art of cigars, and creating an atmosphere where people can relax and connect.
Cigar Pairing: A World of Possibilities
One of the joys of smoking cigars is discovering how different cigars pair with beverages and food. Teddy believes cigars can complement any drink—whether it’s a soda, bourbon, or even a fine wine. A lighter cigar can be enjoyed with a refreshing soda or a glass of water, while a darker, richer cigar can enhance the experience of sipping on a smooth bourbon or scotch.
In fact, the pairing process is just as much about personal preference as it is about balancing the flavors of the cigar with the drink. Over time, you’ll learn which pairings work best for you, and you’ll find that cigars can elevate the experience of your favorite drinks and meals.
Respecting the Cigar Lounge
Cigar lounges are more than just places to buy cigars—they’re sanctuaries where you can unwind, chat with friends, or simply enjoy some peaceful time on your own. Teddy emphasizes the importance of respecting the environment, which means no speakerphone or FaceTime calls, and treating the space and the people in it with courtesy.

At Spring Street Cigars, the atmosphere is one of relaxation and camaraderie. The goal is to provide an environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their experience level, and where they can fully immerse themselves in the cigar culture.
Final Thoughts
Cigar smoking is a lifestyle—a journey of exploration, learning, and connection. Whether you're just starting or you've been smoking cigars for years, there’s always more to discover. From learning the proper cuts and blends to finding the perfect pairing, every cigar smoked adds another layer to the experience. And the best way to learn? Spend time in a cigar shop, talk to other enthusiasts, and, most importantly, enjoy the process.
If you’re in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, swing by Spring Street Cigars and experience it for yourself. Whether you’re after the perfect blend or simply want to sit back and relax, Teddy and the team will ensure you have everything you need to enjoy the moment.
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