For The Record, An Elevated Vinyl Exchange

Overview

As a storyteller and music enthusiast, I’ve always believed that albums hold more than just sound—they hold memories, emotions, and connection. For The Record started as an idea between friends, a way to create a space where people could gather, share what they love, and build community through music. What it’s becoming is something even more special: an intimate space that fuses storytelling, culture, and small business stewardship.

The Challenge

Music is a bridge, but real, in-person spaces to share and connect over vinyl are rare. I wanted to create something that felt intentional, where people weren’t just swapping records, but swapping experiences. At the same time, I wanted to drive support for independent record stores and small businesses across San Diego, keeping them integrated in the community we’re building.

The Intention

For The Record is about more than music, it’s about connection. Each experience is intentionally designed to bring people together in an authentic way, where records become entry points to personal stories, nostalgia, and shared moments. It also is about cultivating an environment where speakers receive undivided attention while they’re sharing their stories. In a world of distractions, we create space for presence.