Looking for vinyl treasures in Elgin County? Look no further than Reed's Records, where Jason Reed has transformed a lifelong passion for music into a thriving business that brings the magic of vinyl to the heart of St. Thomas. The Birth of Reed's Records Jason Reed began with a deep love for music and a knack for discovering hidden gems. "I've always loved music, ever since I can remember," Jason shares. For years, hunting for records was a cherished pastime. But in December 2022, his life took an unexpected turn. Jason decided to explore a new direction after leaving his job without immediate plans. That spark came at a record show in St. Thomas, where Jason set up a table and unveiled his carefully curated selection of vinyl. The response was overwhelming. "I received a ton of compliments on my selection and prices," he recalls. Encouraged, he became a vendor at more shows, eventually securing a spot in the Caboose by the Jumbo monument in December 2023 as part of the Small Business Enterprise Centre's GROW program. Curating for the St. Thomas and Elgin County Community Reed's Records has become a vinyl haven tailored to local tastes. Initially focused on jazz and blues, Jason pivoted to meet the demand for hard rock and new pop, the most requested genres in St. Thomas. His inventory boasts everything from rare bootlegs of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd to indie-exclusive releases and colourful, splattered vinyl. Jason's dedication to meeting customer needs has led to memorable moments. "I had a young woman ask if I had any Roger Miller," he says. "She found a Greatest Hits album in my $1 bin and was ecstatic. Moments like that remind me why I do this." A Small Business with a Personal Touch In contrast to big-city record shops, Reed's Records offers a personal, community-focused experience. Jason's commitment to customer satisfaction includes free delivery within St. Thomas, a unique perk made possible by the city's accessible size. "It only takes minutes to get from one end of the city to the other without the traffic jams you'd find elsewhere," he notes. Reed's approach to pricing also sets him apart. While inflation has driven up the cost of newly released albums, Reed keeps his markup low. "It means a lot to me when I'm complimented on my prices," he says. The joy of helping customers find the perfect album—whether it's a rare collectible or a child's dream gift—fuels his dedication. Advice for Collectors Jason offers expert advice for vinyl enthusiasts, whether they're seasoned collectors or just starting:
The Vinyl Revival Though Jason completed his six-month stay in the Caboose, Reed's Records continues to thrive online and at record shows across Southern Ontario, drawing vinyl enthusiasts from Brantford to Sarnia. With active social media updates and a loyal customer base, Jason's passion for vinyl remains a driving force in the St. Thomas music scene. Find Reed's Records Online For updates on new arrivals, record show appearances, and one-of-a-kind vinyl finds, follow Reed's Records on Facebook or Instagram. Whether you're a casual listener or a dedicated collector, Jason Reed's mission is to connect you with the perfect album. A Music-Lover's Dream in St. Thomas Reed's Records exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit of Elgin County. By blending passion, community focus, and a personal touch, Jason Reed has turned a caboose into a hotspot for vinyl enthusiasts. While the caboose chapter may have closed, the music plays on as Jason shares his love for vinyl with St. Thomas and beyond. Looking for vinyl in Elgin County? Reed's Records is the name to remember—where the music never stops, and the passion for vinyl keeps spinning.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |