We recently connected with Katrina Kelley and have shared our conversation below.

Katrina, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you scale up? What were the strategies, tactics, meaningful moments, twists/turns, obstacles, mistakes along the way? The world needs to hear more realistic, actionable stories about this critical part of the business building journey. Tell us your scaling up story – bring us along so we can understand what it was like making the decisions you had, implementing the strategies/tactics etc.

Scaling up a business takes more than overnight success. It’s the result of years of hard work and overcoming obstacles, often overlooked by the media. At Cigar Bella, we know the real story behind our success and are excited to share it with you.

It all began in Las Vegas, where I, Katrina, started Cigar Bella with a team of master cigar rollers. We wanted to bring the art of hand-rolled cigars to enthusiasts everywhere. As we gained recognition in Vegas, we set our sights on expansion.

Next, we took our passion to Los Angeles, capitalizing on the city’s glamour and fame. From catering to celebrities and premieres to exclusive events, we made a name for ourselves in the City of Angels.

But we didn’t stop there. We knew our hand-rolled cigars had a global appeal. So, we embarked on an international adventure, sharing our craft with enthusiasts from different cultures around the world.

Now, let’s talk about a funny mistake we made along the way. During an event in LA, we accidentally mixed up the packaging, and customers received a different cigar variety than intended. They ended up loving the unexpected flavors and even started requesting those cigars, turning it into a playful trademark for our brand.

Our journey of scaling up Cigar Bella has been thrilling. From Vegas to LA and now Austin, Texas, we’ve expanded while staying true to our commitment of providing the finest hand-rolled cigars. We’ve learned from our mistakes, adapted our strategies, and embraced the youthful spirit that defines Cigar Bella.

Whether you’re in the states or abroad, if you’re looking for luxury, craftsmanship, and a touch of humor, Cigar Bella is here to fulfill your cigar needs. Join us on this exciting journey as we light up the world together.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As the owner of Cigar Bella, I am thrilled to share what sets our business apart in the world of luxury cigars and other cigar rolling companies.

At Cigar Bella, we take immense pride in the artistry and craftsmanship of our cigars. Our team consists of master cigar rollers who bring their passion and expertise to each and every cigar they meticulously hand-roll. Their dedication and skill shine through, ensuring that every cigar we offer is a testament to their exceptional craftsmanship.

We are committed to using only the finest tobacco leaves in our creations. Through careful selection, aging, and blending, we achieve a harmonious balance of flavors and aromas that result in a truly refined and sophisticated smoking experience.

What truly distinguishes us is our dedication to creating exclusive and unforgettable moments for our clients. Whether it’s a private event, corporate gathering, or special occasion, our team works closely with you to curate personalized cigar selections that align with your preferences. We believe in tailoring the experience to your unique taste and creating lasting memories.

Exceptional customer service is our priority. We strive to provide a seamless and refined experience, ensuring that every interaction is characterized by professionalism, attentiveness, and a genuine desire to exceed your expectations.

At Cigar Bella, we invite you to indulge in the timeless artistry of our hand-rolled cigars. Experience the refined flavors, impeccable craftsmanship, and personalized service that define our brand. Each puff is a moment of pure indulgence, crafted by our passionate team of cigar rollers.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

This is the advice I have for managing a team and maintaining high morale.

Encourage open communication: Create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns openly. Promote active listening and constructive feedback to ensure everyone’s voice is valued and respected.

Lead by example: Set the tone for your team by demonstrating the values, work ethic, and positive attitude you expect from them. Be punctual, go the extra mile, and maintain a positive outlook to inspire and motivate your team.

Recognize achievements: Celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of each team member, no matter how small. Recognizing wins boosts morale, fosters a sense of pride, and encourages continued dedication and excellence.

Support growth and development: Provide opportunities for learning, mentorship, and skill-building. Investing in your team’s development empowers them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to your collective success.

Promote work-life balance: Encourage a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life. Prioritize the well-being and happiness of your team, promoting a supportive and balanced environment.

Encourage collaboration: Foster a culture of teamwork and cooperation, promoting cross-functional communication and collaboration. Encouraging collaboration strengthens relationships and enhances overall team performance.

Show appreciation: Regularly express gratitude and acknowledge the efforts and contributions of team members. Demonstrating appreciation creates a positive and supportive atmosphere, boosting morale and motivation.

Embrace creativity and innovation: Create a space where new ideas are welcomed and encouraged. Empower your team to think outside the box, fostering creativity and innovation.

Promote a positive work environment: Nurture a positive and uplifting atmosphere, emphasizing teamwork, respect, and camaraderie among team members. A positive work environment enhances morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Here’s a story from my journey that highlights my resilience:

During my middle school years, I often felt like an ugly duckling. Boys were not attracted to me, and I struggled with low self-esteem. In the midst of this challenging period, my elementary school teacher, Mrs. Ward, made a hurtful remark, stating that I wasn’t smart enough to achieve anything significant.

Despite these setbacks, I refused to let negativity define me. I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, determined to prove my worth. I worked tirelessly to improve my self-confidence and pursued my dreams with unwavering determination.

In a remarkable turn of events, I discovered a passion for modeling. I decided to embrace this newfound path and committed myself to excel in the industry. I faced numerous rejections along the way, but I refused to let them deter me. With persistence and resilience, I gradually began to make a name for myself.

My hard work paid off when I was featured in renowned magazines like Sports Illustrated and FHM, among others. The recognition and success I achieved in the modeling world served as a testament to my resilience and inner strength. It proved that I was capable of overcoming obstacles, defying expectations, and reaching new heights.

Inspired by my experiences, I decided to take my entrepreneurial spirit to the next level. Drawing upon my passion for fashion and business, I founded my own company, creating a platform to showcase my unique vision and inspire others to embrace their true potential.

Through this journey, I learned the power of resilience and the importance of believing in oneself, even in the face of adversity. My transformation from the “ugly duckling” to a successful model and business owner serves as a reminder that we have the ability to shape our own destinies and prove the doubters wrong.

Today, I continue to strive for excellence, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and using my story to inspire others to embrace their own inner strength and pursue their dreams fearlessly.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cigarbella.com
• Instagram: www.cigarbella.com/cigarbella
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/cigarbellas
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/thekatrinakelley
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/cigarbella
• Yelp: https://s.yelp.com/L9MprFMvBq
• Other: TikTok: @cigarbella

Image Credits
Instagram: @mesh_bhakta