At Southern Bank, relationships aren’t built in a boardroom — they’re built across backyards, businesses, and communities. For Wilmington-based Backyard Specialist, that relationship started with a simple conversation and grew into something much more: a trusted partnership that supports their goals every step of the way.
Inside Southern Bank’s Wilmington branch, the morning felt more like a conversation than a video shoot. Between the hum of lights and the shuffle of cameras, Backyard Specialist owner Jennifer Robbins and Community Banker Brad Merritt settled into a familiar rhythm — laughing about weekend projects and swapping stories about local business life.
Their easy rapport wasn’t staged. It’s the kind of genuine connection that grows naturally at Southern — where relationships start with a handshake and turn into a real partnership. That morning, their conversation unfolded on camera — capturing what collaboration looks like when it’s built on real connection.
Robbins hadn’t been looking for a new bank when she met Merritt in a local networking group. But after switching to Southern and setting up her business banking account, she immediately saw an impact — both in the product itself and Southern’s approach to the relationship.
“I had no idea that I wasn’t happy with my bank, but then when I saw all that you could offer — it was incredible to get interest on my business checking account,” Robbins said. “It’s like found money.”
For Robbins, the transition was seamless. What she expected to be a complicated process turned into an easy handoff thanks to Merritt and the Southern team. “I can’t believe how easy the transition was,” Robbins said. “I thought this was going to be so much work.”
Merritt explained that having Southern’s Treasury team step in early made all the difference. “We were able to get the Treasury team in there with you right away and walk you through that transition,” he said.
More Than a Banker — a Partner
For Robbins, what stood out most wasn’t just the banking tools — it was the personal connection. “You’re trustworthy. You’re dependable. You’re interested in the questions that I have and helping me find solutions,” Robbins told Merritt. “That means a lot.”
That trust is mutual. Merritt sees his role as more than managing accounts — it’s about investing in people.
“If you don’t have your banker’s phone number and you own a business, you’re doing something wrong,” Merritt said. “It’s so important to have open communication.” The two still see each other weekly through their networking group, continuing the kind of genuine connection that makes Southern’s relationship-banking philosophy come to life.
Built for Growth
As Backyard Specialist continues to expand its footprint, Merritt and the Southern team are ready to help plan for what’s next — whether that’s a new line of credit or a new location. “It’s great that Southern, not just myself, but the whole bank, is able to be with you throughout your growing phase as a business,” Merritt said.
Robbins agreed. It’s that sense of partnership that keeps her coming back. “I feel that you really do care about the person and not just their business,” she said. “After meeting you, I realized I don’t think [my old bank] really cared about me.”
Rooted in Strength and Connection
Southern Bank’s long history gave Robbins confidence that she was putting her trust in the right hands. “I’d heard of Southern Bank, but I didn’t really remember it,” Robbins said. “For y’all to have been around for 125 years … that makes me feel good as a customer because I know you’re going to continue to be around.”
Merritt shares that same sense of pride. “Southern Bank has remained a sound, steady, and very safe bank,” Merritt said. “We’ll continue that safety and soundness going forward.”
For Robbins, the partnership is personal and enduring. “I’m looking forward to doing more business with you guys and sending more business your way,” Robbins said. “I don’t like to refer people to anything if I don’t feel good about it — and I feel very good about Southern.”
At Southern, your story, like Robbins’, matters. Whether you’re expanding your space, upgrading your tools, or planning your next big step, we’ll be by your side with local guidance and modern solutions. Explore Southern’s business banking options today.
