When I was younger, I spent my time playing in bands and falling in love with live music. Those experiences shaped how I saw venues and helped me imagine what they could be. Big stages with big budgets are incredible — but I started asking myself: what if we brought that same level of care and attention to detail to a smaller, more intimate space? What if a small stage could still have amazing sound, exciting theatrical lighting, and the same energy that makes people feel like they’re part of something bigger?

That question led me deeper into the world of live performance and eventually to a local nonprofit community arts stage. There, I began putting my ideas into action — honing my craft as an audio enthusiast, learning the ins and outs of production, and building a reputation for creating quality experiences.

At the same time, a partner of mine opened a creative space for queer, BIPOC, and other marginalized communities in the basement of a local art gallery. Being part of that space opened my eyes to what it truly means to make room for people: to prioritize accessibility, to center voices that are too often pushed aside, and to make inclusivity more than a word.

Lavender Studios was born from all of those lessons. It’s the combination of my love for live music, my passion for great sound and production, and my belief in creating safe, welcoming spaces for everyone.

Right now, Lavender is still in its early days. Our home base is literally my home — a place where we can gather, create, and start building this community together. It’s not yet the venue of my dreams, but it is a start. And someday, with the support of this community, Lavender will grow into a physical space large enough to hold everyone — a space where art and accessibility come first, and where we can begin to make an even greater impact on our community.

Lavender is a place for everyone, but not just anyone. Lavender is a place for you.

With gratitude and excitement,
Russ and Lady
Founders, Lavender Studios