We had the good fortune of connecting with Roslyn Stafford-Grady and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Roslyn, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’m a people person. I love working for myself. I wanted to open a business where people could come together and fellowship.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m the 1st African American woman to open a Cigar Lounge and Mobile Cigar Lounge in Texas. I’m proud of how my business has grown. I had to pay my way. I’m in a male dominated business and it’s challenging. I keep moving forward because I love what I do. I’ve learned not to listen to everyone’s opinion. Stay focused on my vision. I want people to know Smoking Jacket Cigar Lounge changed a lot of people’s lives. It brought people together as a family. It’s like Cheers (where everybody knows your name).

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The 1st place I would take them is Smoking Jacket Cigar Lounge. We would go to Perry’s Steakhouse, III Forks, Chamberlain’s, Pappadeaux’s and Shrimp Doc. We would go shopping at North Park, The Galleria and hang out at The Shops at Legacy. We would do a tour of downtown Dallas and Ft. Worth.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents encouraged me to believe in myself and follow my dreams. My sister Melissa has always been my biggest supporter and advisor. My brother in law David taught me the business. My husband Anthony is my backbone. He keeps me focused. He loves me, even when I wrong.

Website: www.smokingjacketcl.com
Instagram: Smoking Jacket LLC
Facebook: Smoking Jacket Cigar Lounge
Yelp: Smoking Jacket Cigar Lounge