Stijn De Sutter Brings "A Cigar and a Sir!" to Dublin, Ireland
The Art of Shaving and Cigars: A Journey into the World of Tradition and Craftsmanship
There are few pleasures in life that compare to the thrill of travel – of stepping into the unknown, breathing in new experiences, and immersing yourself in the stories waiting to be discovered. At ROMAIN, however, we’ve found that one of the most satisfying journeys is not just geographical, but personal. It’s about the delicate, time-honored rituals that come with the art of classic shaving and the indulgence of a perfectly crafted cigar. It’s about the refinement, the craftsmanship, and yes, the knowledge that connects these two worlds, often shrouded in mystery for those unfamiliar.
But that, my friends, is exactly where we come in.
Shaving with an Open Razor: The Forgotten Art
At ROMAIN, we are passionate about bringing back a ritual that, in today's world of disposable razors and quick fixes, has nearly vanished from everyday life. Shaving with a classic straight razor, the slow, meticulous process of honing the blade, the sharpness of the cut, and the sensation of a perfect shave—these are things few people truly understand, let alone appreciate. For us, it’s not just about getting rid of stubble, but about the experience. The calm precision, the tactile pleasure of the blade against your skin, and the ultimate satisfaction that only a classic shave can offer.
The cigar, too, shares a similar mystique. How do you light it properly? What’s the best way to savor its flavor? So many questions, so few answers. But the answer is always the same—knowledge. The missing ingredient in these two ancient practices is understanding. And that’s where we come in again. It’s our mission to share this knowledge, to take people by the hand and show them the true pleasures of shaving and cigars.
A Passion Shared: Dublin’s Cigar & Shave Event
Recently, we had the chance to bring our passion to Dublin, the rugged, windswept capital of Ireland, a city whose winter chill could freeze the bones but whose hospitality could melt even the most hardened hearts. There, we were hosted by two remarkable individuals—Garry and Barry, the owners of Ireland's largest cigar boutique, nestled in the heart of Dublin. They welcomed us with open arms, and, of course, a glass of fine Irish whiskey to warm us up for the evening ahead.
The event was called Cigar & Shave, and it was as much about the people as it was about the products. Our hosts—Stijn De Sutter and Thomas Gryson—are no strangers to excellence in their respective fields. Stijn is a master in the world of traditional shaving, while Thomas brings years of expertise to the world of premium cigars. Together, they form an unparalleled team, bound by their shared love for the rituals of grooming and indulgence.
The Perfect Setting for an Unforgettable Experience
The venue itself was a masterpiece. Set in the basement of a historic liquor shop, the space was rich in character, with every corner telling a story. It was the perfect backdrop for an evening of whiskey tasting, shaving demonstrations, and of course, cigar-smoking. Over 30 guests gathered, their anticipation palpable as the evening unfolded.
As the guests sat back, drink in hand, Stijn offered a detailed explanation of the art of shaving—how to prepare the skin, the importance of blade angle, and the joy of using a straight razor. Meanwhile, Thomas delved into the world of cigars, educating the crowd on the delicate process of rolling, lighting, and enjoying a fine cigar. Every puff was savored, every shave was a lesson in craft, and every conversation was steeped in history.
A Mission Accomplished
It was an evening to remember—an event that wasn’t just about sharing knowledge, but about creating connections. The warmth of the people, the camaraderie of like-minded enthusiasts, and the deep passion for these ancient practices made the trip to Dublin not only successful, but unforgettable.
We left with more than just business cards. We left with new friendships, with the knowledge that there is a growing appreciation for the rituals that have been passed down through generations. And as for ROMAIN, we are more committed than ever to spreading the knowledge of shaving and cigars, one cigar, one shave, and one story at a time.
So, whether you're a seasoned aficionado or someone looking to discover the world of traditional shaving and fine cigars, remember: the experience begins with knowledge, and we’re here to share it with you.
