Anybody attending the Seattle Cigar Expo?

[thechrisdotcom]

I agree with a lot of the stuff you said, but I still had a great time. It was the first one, so obviously it'll only get better for the future.

I blame the manufactures themselves for having such poor displays, that was pretty weak on their part. I can't blame the expo organizers for that one.

The thing I do like about having the sticks already in the bag is not having to wait in line to get a cigar. Smoke Easy did that and it was kind of a cluster.

I also wish they had more stuff to raffle off, boxes of cigars, humidors, shirts, etc. And I agree with the a ticket already included in your gift bag. But still, a good idea for a ticket a stick just cuz it'd be nice to win something for buying a cigar or two.

[KenS]

I think you summarized it very well. I did the VIP ticket, and really had a great time. The before event was excellent at Brouwer's - great food, great drinks, great place. The after event at Vertigo Club was disappointing; the buildup and website for that "exclusive" venue was a little oversold. A single room with limited seating, and it took quite a while to get food and drink set up.

Saturday, for the main event, Fischer Plaza was a GREAT venue for a 7 hour herf, with great music and food.

I agree that the biggest gap was the manufacturers, with almost zero presence at any of the events. The saturday event was supposed to be "sponsored" by Tatuaje, and their special SOHO cigar was supposedly available. Nothing. Nada. Very disappointing.

Again, overall it was a great experience, but some things to improve on for next year to make it even better.