Bluestar, welcome, and smoke in peace.
Over the years, I've known several sisters of the briar. Almost all are really nice ladies. Sadly, many choose not to be public with their like of briar and blends. The reason is simple: They are easy pickings for the over hormones smoking fetish crowd.
In fact, I just sent a friend 3 bulldogs ( two Charatan Perfections, one Longchamps) and a tin of McClelland Anniversary. I hope she enjoys them in peace.
I hope Gabrielle does not get "the treatment" and thus run away from the briar.
Finally, I have a theory on pipes v cigars, for all genders: Pipe smoking demands some skill learning, and is definitely a contemplative art. Cigars are near instant gratification...