The whole world seems to be going vape these days. For those of you just joining the conversation, vaping refers to the new wave of trendy individuals dedicated to the latest craze: smoking e-cigarettes. A notion that literally didn’t exists in our dictionary ten years ago, “vaping” has been named the new word of 2014, and rightly so. An industry that is worth $3.5 billion dollars, it has become not only a substitute to the old fashion smoke, but a luxury trend by people of all ages, and lately, those much sought-after A-listers.
From John Cusack to Simon Cowell and from Katherine Heigl to Jessica Alba, even the celebrities have been spotted vaping away. The birth of the electronic cigarette craze is one that found its roots in health implications, as it poses a safer option in respect to smoking the classic cigar, pipe or cigarette. But for true and passionate vapers, it goes far beyond that. It is something that in fact has become an enjoyable pastime, something over which those with the same interest can bond.
One of the most recent markets that is being explored is flavor creation for e-cigarettes. Companies like the Italy-based FlavourArt is exploring the intricate science of creating essences for electronic cigarettes, offering vapers a variety of options. For those who have taken up the hobby, options to tinker with and personalize the flavor possibilities are one of the perks. With sites like FlavourArt, vapers have the option to purchase ready-to-be-vaped juices, or they can get a little creative, mixing their own potion, choosing the quantity of nicotine, the amount of essence and whether they want a stronger or softer effect upon inhale.FlavourArt of course reminds its clients that the electronic cigarette is an alternative to traditional smoking and that some of their products contain nicotine, for which their use is prohibited by those under the age of 18.
Not just flavour, but the hospitality biz is jumping on the lux bandwagon as well. Henley’s in Soho, for example, was New York City’s first vape shop, lounge and cafè experience. They wanted to acquaint traditional smokers with a healthier option and offer seasoned vapers a selection of the best products. There are now two spaces open and they are a mix of that trendy yet laidback Soho style, run by professional vapologists and passionate vapers themselves. Even the fashion market has taken notice as well, with products such as customized vape kits handcrafted with Swarovski crystals for the ultimate eye-catching accessory.
Whether those have jumped on the trend to wean themselves off the classic cigarette, or they have found some enjoyment in swapping ideas and opinions about flavor mixtures, vaping is a newly growing trend and an emerging luxury market.
