This Boutique Nashville Bank Offers Sophistication and a Personal Touch
With a membership-based, tech-savvy, and hospitality-inspired approach, Studio Bank offers the sophistication of a larger financial institution along with the personalized service of a local bank.
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No one really likes their bank, right? We are “satisfied” with our banking institution, or we “work well” with them, but liking them is a different story — or so we thought. We recently learned that it actually IS possible to find a bank you connect with on both practical and creative levels. To connect in a way that is, in the words of Nashville’s Studio Bank … surprisingly human. We spoke with Aaron Dorn, chairman, president, and CEO of Studio Bank, to learn all about this local bank’s story, what sets them apart, and all of the things their clients really, really like about them.
As one of Nashville’s first new banks in over a decade, Studio Bank has offered a one-of-a-kind banking experience since 2018. Today, the company is made up of 85 employees who empower creators — whether you’re a musician, healthcare professional, parent, or business owner. “We view ourselves in a purpose-driven paradigm, and we understand that our role is pretty sacred — to empower people who are creating things,” explains Aaron.
PinAaron Dorn is the chairman, president, and CEO of Studio Bank, a modern boutique banking institution.PinIn addition to its flagship branch in The Gulch, Studio Bank recently expanded to Franklin. Pictured here is the Studio Bank team at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new location.
As a purpose-driven company, Studio Bank provides a brand-new banking model, putting membership, technology, and hospitality at the forefront. Its membership approach is seen in every customer interaction. In other words, you’re a part of something more than just a transactional banking relationship. “When you bank with Studio Bank, it goes beyond simply the interest rates and the dollars and cents. We are significant human connectors,” says Aaron. “Human connections are actually a part of our mission, which is to provide financial resources and human connections that make an impact.”
Pin“The model we use with our bankers is such that you actually have a personal banker when you bank with us, and you’ve got their phone number to call … and you talk to a human being,” says Aaron.
At Studio Bank, you can build these connections with banking experts in almost any industry — from music and entertainment to nonprofits, dental and healthcare, and commercial real estate. In fact, whether you’re using Studio Bank for commercial or personal needs, each customer is paired with a banker who knows your industry and your specific goals. “We like to partner these industry expert bankers with the client who’s appropriate to them, so they’re in the absolute best hands … This makes everything so much more efficient,” adds Aaron.
PinA Studio Bank membership includes a wide range of perks, such as lunch-and-learn opportunities, no ATM fees (even at non-Studio Bank ATMs!), intimate dinners with curated guest lists, networking events, and much more.Pin“We care about diversity and inclusion, so we want to make sure our clients are doing business with folks they can relate to in many different ways,” says Aaron.
As our world and technology continue to evolve, it’s essential that the businesses we use do the same. This is why Studio Bank places a particular emphasis on technology. Its modern and digital platforms offer easy access to banking while you’re on the go. Through these platforms, members can enjoy remote check-depositing capabilities, a ‘Money Manager’ tool, person-to-person payments, external transfers, and more.
However, customers still love to visit Studio Bank in person for its unique and welcoming environment. The second you step foot into a Studio Bank branch, you’ll immediately notice the vibrant colors, thoughtful amenities (including coffee and other local treats!), and background music curated by the staff. “The design of our offices is not your stodgy oak-paneled, early 1900s bank,” says Aaron. “It’s a very vibrant and creative atmosphere.”
Pin“When you walk into a Studio Bank office, we want you to feel like you’re walking into your favorite restaurant, hotel, or coffee shop,” explains Aaron. “It’s certainly professional but also vibrant, creative, modern looking, and representative of the cities we’re in — both Nashville and Franklin.”PinYou’re invited to pour yourself a cup of local coffee when visiting Studio Bank’s locations.
You’ll also catch regular glimpses of its adorable French bulldog logo throughout Studio Bank’s website, app, and offices. While this may seem like a peculiar choice for a bank, Aaron says the Frenchie perfectly encapsulates the mission of Studio Bank. “Frenchies are sophisticated dogs, but they’re not pompous,” he says. “They’re super friendly and approachable, and that’s how I would describe Studio Bank as well. We certainly are very professional and sophisticated in how we do business, but very personable and approachable in the style in which we do that.”
Pin“At its core, the French bulldog is really about being welcoming and approachable. It represents the sense of delight you get when you do business with us,” says Aaron of the bank’s logo.
Whether you use Studio Bank’s digital platform or visit its Franklin or Gulch location, you’re guaranteed to have a professional and personalized experience. It’s the perfect blend of the sophistication you’d find at a larger institution, coupled with the friendly service of a local bank. “It all comes back to our people and purpose,” says Aaron. “We view our role in the world not just in dollars, interest rates, or fees, but in terms of empowering people who are trying to create something. That kind of purpose ends up permeating everything we do.”
Studio Bank is located at 124 12th Avenue South in The Gulch and 1550 West McEwen Drive in Franklin. To learn more, visit studiobank.com.All photography courtesy of Studio Bank.
Brianna is StyleBlueprint’s Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.
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