Walls and Whispers: The First Echoes from the Factories

1. Polite Rejections and Deep Silence: I received polite responses from some factories, stating that they weren't open to a new project due to their current production volume. Others never responded. This is the first reality an entrepreneur must adapt to: Not every door opens when knocking.

2. Wall of Numbers:The most enlightening responses were from large, established manufacturers. They understood my vision, but stated that the starting quantity for custom production was around 15,000 units. This was an insurmountable barrier for a one-person entrepreneur like me, who had to manage his capital wisely. Such a high production volume was not only a financial burden, but also a significant risk.

Were these answers a disappointment? At first, yes. But then I realized it wasn't a failure, but a signpost. If major highways were closed to me, then my path would have to be via unfamiliar, more scenic paths.

Strategy Change: Moving Towards Boutique Manufacturers

These initial contacts helped me further clarify my goal. I wasn't looking for a factory with massive production lines; I was looking for a flexible, boutique production partner who shared my passion and prioritized craftsmanship.

Accordingly, I narrowed my initial production target to a more realistic range: 1,000 to 5,000 units. This would be a start that would allow me to maintain the brand's quality while also being financially manageable. With this new goal in mind, I began researching smaller, family-run manufacturers specializing in custom, small-batch production.

Overture: Top 20 Boxes and Reality Tests

During this process, a new idea came to mind: Before a major launch, I'd stage an "overture." That is, a demo production of just 20 boxes (200 in total). These cigars won't be for sale. They will be my physical business card, a tangible ambassador of my brand's spirit.

I plan to distribute these first 20 boxes to a few respected figures in the industry—influencers, bloggers, perhaps a few potential distributors, and key influencers of cigar culture. However, this raises a new question: Is this even possible? Could a factory ship directly to these individuals on my behalf? What are the costs and legal implications of this? I'm currently researching these questions, and it looks like this will be one of the most complex logistical steps of the project.

The Big Question That Needs Answering

All these efforts lead me to a fundamental question: Even if all this were successful, why would a distributor choose a new, small brand like me in a market dominated by established brands?

I asked myself this question honestly. The answer lies in the fact that I can't compete on volume or price. My strength lies elsewhere: in my story and my passion. I don't create a product that appeals to everyone. I create a work of art for cigar enthusiasts, a passion and an adventure. What I offer a distributor isn't just a good box of cigars; it's an authentic entrepreneurial story behind it.

Building the Foundations: Estonia and Local Support

During this challenging research process, I'm continuing to solidify the project's pillars. I've learned all the legal and financial details of incorporating through e-Residency in Estonia. This provides a solid foundation for my brand's legal presence in Europe.

I've also begun scheduling meetings with freelance professionals who can handle my work in production areas (such as Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic) and communicate more effectively with factories. These individuals will be my "eyes and ears on the ground," helping me overcome language and cultural barriers.

The journey has been filled with more obstacles and questions than I anticipated. However, each obstacle leads me to more creative solutions, more realistic goals, and a stronger strategy. The silence has been broken, and now it's time to find the right voices.

Thank you for staying tuned.