Today we’d like to introduce you to Pavel Zakhvatov.
Hi Pavel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born in Kazan, Russia — a city with a strong character, deep history, and a quiet sense of dignity. For a long time, my life had nothing to do with the tobacco industry. Everything changed during one trip.
While traveling through Spain, I found myself in Barcelona. It was there that I was introduced to an entirely different world — cigar lounges, tobacco boutiques, and private clubs where cigars and pipe tobacco were treated not as habits, but as culture. I watched people take their time choosing a cigar, engaging in thoughtful conversations, enjoying the ritual itself. That experience changed my perspective completely.
For the first time, I understood that cigars and pipe tobacco could be a ritual — a way to slow down, to relax, to connect with others, and to appreciate craftsmanship and tradition. It wasn’t about smoking. It was about atmosphere, heritage, and moments.
When I returned to Russia, the contrast was striking. That culture was almost nonexistent. In reality, there was only one notable restaurant-style venue that allowed cigar smoking indoors. The reasons were obvious — climate, regulations, and a general lack of infrastructure. Cold weather alone makes outdoor cigar culture nearly impossible for most of the year.
At that moment, I realized something important: if I truly wanted to grow in this field, I needed to live in a place where the climate, lifestyle, and mindset allowed this culture to exist naturally.
That realization led me to Florida.
Moving to Miami became a turning point in my life. Here, under open skies, surrounded by ocean air, palm trees, and a slower, more intentional rhythm of life, I discovered the full depth of cigar and pipe tobacco culture. In Miami, this world is not hidden — it is visible, social, and deeply integrated into everyday life.
I started from the ground up. Step by step, I invested all my energy, knowledge, and entrepreneurial drive into building my path in this industry. I combined my European experience with a clear vision of quality, service, and authenticity. For me, it was never about selling a product — it was about creating an experience, an atmosphere, and a sense of belonging.
Persistence, attention to detail, and a strong belief in my vision helped me move forward. Miami gave me the space to grow, to experiment, and to fully realize my potential as an entrepreneur.
Today, my journey is a reflection of how travel can reshape a person’s worldview, and how a dream — supported by discipline, effort, and character — can turn into reality. I am proud to be building my story in Miami, a city that allowed me to transform a passion into a way of life!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like most meaningful journeys, it came with uncertainty, setbacks, and moments where quitting would have been the easier option. Starting over in a new country meant rebuilding everything from the ground up — understanding a new market, new regulations, and a completely different business environment. Nothing was handed to me, and every step required patience and persistence.
One of the biggest challenges was earning trust. In this industry, reputation matters. It takes time to build relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers, especially when you are new and coming from a different background. There were also financial pressures — investing in quality, inventory, and infrastructure long before seeing real returns.
As you know, we’re big fans of Smoking Bay. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We are specialize in premium cigars, pipe tobacco, pipes, and carefully selected accessories, but what we truly offer is an experience. From the beginning, my goal was to create a space — both physical and digital — where people feel welcomed, unhurried, and understood. A place where quality, tradition, and personal connection matter more than volume or trends.
What I am most proud of, brand-wise, is trust. Customers return not only because of what we sell, but because of how we make them feel. They know they will receive honest recommendations, consistent quality, and a level of service that feels personal rather than transactional.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is integrity — in how I build my business, how I treat people, and how I stay true to my vision.
I believe integrity is the foundation of everything that lasts. In an industry built on tradition and trust, shortcuts eventually show. I care deeply about doing things the right way: offering products I genuinely believe in, giving honest advice, and creating an environment where customers feel respected rather than sold to.
Also the support of my family has been a foundation for everything I’ve built. Moving to a new country, starting a business from the ground up, and navigating constant uncertainty would have been far more difficult without people who believed in me long before there were visible results. My wife provided not only emotional support, but also a deep sense of confidence and stability that allowed me to keep moving forward during the most challenging moments.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://smokingbay.com/
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/smokingbaycom
