From Estelí to Your Brand: Designing with Passion and Authenticity

02 Feb From Estelí to Your Brand: Designing with Passion and Authenticity

A Journey Back to My Roots and How Authenticity Shapes Exceptional Cigar Branding

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to travel back to Estelí, Nicaragua—one of the world’s most renowned hubs for premium cigars. But for me, this was more than just a business trip. It was a journey back to my roots, a reminder of where my passion for cigars and design truly began.

As someone born in Nicaragua, stepping onto that familiar soil was like stepping into the past while embracing the future. The sights, the sounds, the unmistakable aroma of curing tobacco—it all brought me back to the essence of what makes this industry so special. Cigars are more than a product; they’re a craft, a tradition, a legacy passed down through generations.

A Tour Through Cigar Excellence
One of the highlights of my trip was a special tour of a Plasencia family tobacco farm, a place where some of the world’s finest tobaccos are cultivated with meticulous care. Walking through the fields, I saw firsthand how much patience, dedication, and expertise go into every leaf before it ever reaches a cigar roller’s hands. It reinforced something I’ve always believed—great cigars start long before they’re lit. They begin with passion, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

I also had the privilege of visiting the Villiger de Nicaragua cigar factory, a state-of-the-art facility that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Watching the skilled hands of the torcedores, the precision in every stage of production, and the attention to detail in crafting each cigar was nothing short of inspiring. These are the moments that remind me why I do what I do.

The Intersection of Culture, Craft, and Design
At Cigar Package Design, our mission is simple: We Help People Build Cigar Brands. But what sets us apart is more than just design expertise—it’s a deep-rooted connection to the cigar industry itself.

I don’t just design packaging; I understand the story behind every cigar. I know the dedication of the farmers, the skill of the rollers, and the patience of the blenders. I’ve seen it, lived it, and brought that experience into my work. That’s why every project I take on isn’t just about creating a visually appealing brand—it’s about capturing the soul of the cigar and translating that into a design that resonates with customers.

Thank You Note
A huge thank you goes out to the entire staff at Villiger De Nicaragua cigar factory for their warm hospitality, And a huge thank you to Villiger North America – without them, this trip would not have been possible.

Your Brand, Your Legacy
Whether you’re launching a new cigar brand or looking to elevate an existing one, your story matters. And just like a premium cigar, branding isn’t just about appearance—it’s about the experience, the history, and the connection you create with your audience.

If you’re ready to take your brand to the next level, let’s talk. Together, we can create packaging that doesn’t just look great but truly embodies the craftsmanship, culture, and passion behind your cigars.

Let’s build something exceptional.

Humberto Areas
Creative Director, Cigar Package Design