"How a love for Cigars saved my life" LB Gilmore-The man behind the brand
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Back in 2016, LB Gilmore was wrongfully arrested and convicted of conspiracy, a crime he did not commit. As a long-time businessman with no criminal history, he was sentenced to 32 years in federal prison. Rather than seeking handouts, he needed a plan to raise money to hire a lawyer or law firm that specializes in helping victims of social and racial injustice.
LB Gilmore is an upholsterer by trade, known locally for crafting award-winning auto interiors for show cars. He has also had a passion for cigars for over 20 years. While incarcerated, he received cigar magazines and noticed a significant increase in the number of women smoking cigars on social media and in lounges worldwide. He realized that women were using cigar cases that were designed for middle-aged men from 60 years ago. Inspired by this, he thought it would be a great idea to create the first-ever cigar clutch purse for women. The Cigar Clutch purse became a success, selling not only in the U.S. but also around the globe.
Shortly after, LB began receiving requests from men who wanted a more modern cigar case—something different from the notebook-style cases available on the market. This led to the creation of man's new best friend, "The Cigar Pooch," the first cigar case designed to look like a cigar case rather than a book cover or shaving bag. The Cigar Pooch is also designed for social media, perfectly sized for photos on a bar top or table alongside your favorite foods and drinks, all while showcasing your cigars, cigar cutter, and lighter.
These bags were created inside a federal prison with the mindset that "if the product is not perfect, it could jeopardize my mission, and I could spend the rest of my life in prison." Therefore, attention to detail is crucial". LB channeled all of his pain and suffering into the creation and craftsmanship of these bags, ensuring that each client receives not just a beautiful product but a luxurious work of art.
"I would never have thought that my love for cigars would save my life. I will not take for granted the next opportunity I have to smoke a cigar. For the rest of my life, each cigar I smoke will be a luxurious experience, and I want to share this sentiment with everyone in the world. The logo on each Gilmore Bag serves as a reminder that regardless of your current circumstances, you can achieve greatness, and once you do, you deserve luxury."
By the Grace of God.. 10 new design Gilmore Bags coming in 2025.. and my Freedom