Life & Work with Yalanda Thompson of Stonecrest

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yalanda Thompson.

Hi Yalanda, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My story is a simple one. I am a lover of cigars and always appreciated the elegance of using a cigar pick during my cigar experience. On my last purchase of a cigar pick in May of 2025, I realized I was not satisfied with the quality of the products I purchased and decided to start a business making the products myself. I love the freedom of being creative and providing unique, quality products to other cigar lovers both male and female. As a world traveler I enjoy finding unique beads domestically and internationally that I can incorporate into my designs. I offer standard collections of cigar picks but also customize for events, weddings, corporate events etc. Since starting this venture in June 2025, I have quickly discovered there is a want, desire and need for these cigar accessories that previously were primarily targeting women. As I am growing, I have also expanded to novelties that pair well with cigar picks including wine stoppers, cork screws and bottle openers to name a few. My heart and soul is still primarily focused on elevating the overall cigar experience by providing distinctive accessories.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My greatest challenges have been financing a start up business from personal finances up front. Like anything worth having, I have sacrificed some personal preferences to get my business launched and moving. To get my name out there I have to rely on sweat equity of being at festivals, going to cigar lounges for pop ups, networking, developing a website for commerce and bombarding social media on a consistent basis which are all out of my comfort zone but worth the efforts. As a new entrepreneur, I truly understand the old adage “You have to be in it to win it!”. I know I will reap the benefits in the long run as I keep putting my products out there. It helps to have a supportive husband and family circle that stand by me firmly and walk with me on this journey. I’m a testament that it is never too late to start a new thing. I’m passionate about this venture and excited to see what the future holds for me and “Ashes and Embers”

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In my professional life I work for a telecommunications organization and specialize in contract compliance and security for my organization. I’ve been in that industry for over 20 years. I pride my self on my high level of work ethics, attention to detail and always being a team player for the betterment of my organization.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My greatest inspiration or resource for living my best life in general is the Bible. That is my primary source for guidance, balance, sustainability and perseverance. As for podcast I enjoy “The Mel Robbins podcast” and “Let’s be Clear podcast with Pastor Jamal Bryant”. Both are positive speakers focused on enhancing my life and being my best self

Pricing:

• Cigar Picks $25 (All Standard or Custom)
• Wine stoppers/Corkscrew Sets $25
• Bottle Openers $10

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ashesandembers.com
• Instagram: @ashesembers_picks
• Facebook: Ashes.Embers Cigar Picks and Novelties

Image Credits
None