By Sarah Cormier
C & G Staff Writer

MOUNT CLEMENS — For at least the last 20 years, Mark Bratto worked hard for a local automotive supply company until one day in 2006 — the day after Thanksgiving — he was suddenly laid off.

Although the news was upsetting, Bratto quickly went into action, deciding to turn a hobby into his full-time job within just a matter of hours.

“That day, I got laid off and I got started on my business plan,” he said.

Bratto, who lives in Clinton Township, decided that he wanted to open a cigar club where locals could purchase their favorite brand or just relax and smoke, if they so desired. He said he started first really taking an interest in cigars about 10 years ago, while enjoying them socially on the golf course. He also frequented another cigar store in Dearborn.

“I always have had a passion for cigars,” he said.

Bratto said that for the next several months he did research on cigar shops, cigars and anything else related to the topic. He soon realized that there were very few, if any, cigar clubs on the east side.

By May 5, 2007, Bratto had opened his very own cigar club, Vi Bratto Premium Cigars, located at 65 Macomb Place, Suite E, in downtown Mount Clemens. Inside the 1,500-square-foot facility, Bratto sells over 200 different cigar brands, as well as cigar accessories and pipe tobacco. Bratto added that he hopes to sell more than 400 different cigars by the end of the year. His private label cigars run from $3 to $4, and other premium cigars are available from $5 to $20.

Also available are private humidor lockers for cigar club members. Bratto really encourages the cigar club theme, with photos of John Travolta and Johnny Depp enjoying their favorite cigars displayed on the walls. Tables and chairs are lined up, along with a large screen television, dartboard and leather couches.

Bratto is hoping that the summer festivals Mount Clemens is famous for, along with the opening of a new wine store next door, will help promote his business.

“There is already a built-in draw,” he said.

Arthur Mullen, executive director of the Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority, said that the city welcomes Vi Bratto Premium Cigars.

“We are very excited to have him here in downtown Mount Clemens,” Mullen said. “It is a new retailer with a fresh perspective, and we are excited for the potential of something unique to help draw additional shoppers downtown.”

Bratto encourages locals to come check out his store.

“There is nothing around here like this,” he said. “Nothing.”

Vi Bratto Premium Cigars is opened from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Visit www.vibrattopremiumcigars.com for more information.

You can reach Sarah Cormier at scormier@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1095.