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My Story

Welcome to TDM Cigars

Hello, my name is Alexis Normandia Velez, and I am the owner and tobacconist at TDM Cigars. In addition to my passion for cigars, I have spent over 20 years as a full-time paramedic and educator in emergency medical services (EMS). Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to helping others, mentoring new paramedics, and serving my community. But as time moves forward, I realized that I needed to build something lasting—not just for myself, but for my family and future generations. That’s why TDM Cigars was born—a brand rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and a love for the cigar lifestyle. This business is more than just a passion project; it is a legacy for my son, a foundation he can build upon, and a tribute to the values I want to pass down—hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.

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Returning to My Roots

Cigars have been a part of my life for over 25 years. I come from a small tobacco-growing family, where I was introduced to the world of cigars as a teen. Over the years, I worked in cigar shops, gaining valuable knowledge about the industry and deepening my appreciation for the craft. Recognizing my deep connection to this world, I decided to return to my roots and pursue it professionally. I have since become a certified tobacconist and am currently training as an apprentice cigar roller, learning the art of blending and rolling cigars by hand. This journey has been one of passion and dedication, and it is my goal to offer premium cigars, high-quality accessories, and valuable education to cigar enthusiasts everywhere.

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A Commitment to Quality & Community

At TDM Cigars, we believe that cigars are more than just a product—they represent tradition, relaxation, and connection. Whether you’re new to cigars or a seasoned aficionado, we are committed to providing exceptional products, expert guidance, and an authentic experience that enhances your love for the craft. We take pride in offering only the finest cigars and accessories, ensuring that everything we carry meets our high standards of quality, craftsmanship, and excellence. But beyond the products, we are building a community—one where cigar lovers can share knowledge, stories, and the enjoyment of a well-crafted smoke.

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Honoring the Past, Building for the Future

This company is more than just a business—it is a dedication to the memory of my mother, whom we all miss deeply. She was my greatest source of strength, love, and encouragement, and everything I do with TDM Cigars is a way to honor her legacy. But beyond honoring the past, I am also building for the future. TDM Cigars is my way of creating something lasting for my son—a business that he can be proud of, one that reflects the values of hard work, integrity, and family tradition. I want him to see that with passion, dedication, and perseverance, anything is possible.

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Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey

I want to personally thank each and every one of you for supporting TDM Cigars as we grow and evolve. We are still building, refining, and improving, but one thing remains constant—our commitment to quality, education, and customer satisfaction. Whether you are looking for premium cigars, expert recommendations, or simply a welcoming community of cigar enthusiasts, we are here for you. This journey is just beginning, and I look forward to sharing it with you as we build a brand, honor a legacy, and create something truly special for the future.

Thank you for your support, and welcome to TDM Cigars—where tradition, passion, and legacy come together.

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Alexis Normandia Velez
Owner & Tobacconist, TDM Cigars

Hand rolled cigars
Hand rolled Cigars
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