When Alyson Iarrusso first moved to Portsmouth, she didn’t know anyone. Like many entrepreneurs starting fresh in a new place, she simply needed a bank she could rely on.
At the time, she opened an account at a large credit union. But after nearly ten years, the experience never felt personal.
“I always felt like just another account,” she explains. “There was no real relationship.”
Everything changed when she became involved with the Women’s Business League. Through the organization, she met Mercedes Monaco from Newburyport Bank.
“I was looking for a bank that felt closer — one that truly understood small businesses. Mercedes encouraged me to give Newburyport Bank a try.”
From the moment she walked through the door, the difference was immediate.
“It felt personal right away,” she says. “Newburyport Bank understands what I’m building with Cove Fine Jewelry. They ask about my kids, my trips, my business — they genuinely care. When I walk into the Hampton branch, the same people are always there. That kind of consistency means a lot.”
As the founder of Cove Fine Jewelry, an American-made fine jewelry brand inspired by the New England coast, Alyson’s work is deeply connected to place, craftsmanship, and authenticity.
“All of my jewelry is designed here in New England and crafted in the United States with master jewelers,” she explains. “Cove Fine Jewelry designs pieces inspired by the places people love along the New England coast — jewelry designed with a real sense of place.”
Many of her customers feel a deep connection to the locations that inspire the collections — whether that’s Cape Cod, Portsmouth, or other coastal communities across New England.
For Alyson, those same values are reflected in her banking relationship.
“My brand is built around creating something meaningful and lasting. In many ways, Newburyport Bank operates the same way. They care deeply about their community and the people building businesses here.”
For her, the relationship goes beyond day-to-day banking.
“I trust them. When I sit down with them, I know they’ll give me advice that’s right for my business. They’re looking out for me.”
As Cove Fine Jewelry expands across New England and nationally, Alyson’s work is gaining recognition, including receiving the 2025 Design Excellence Award for Brand Collaboration from the Accessories Council.
“As a female founder building a business here in New England, having a bank that truly supports entrepreneurs makes a huge difference,” she says.
And as her company continues to grow, she knows exactly where she’ll turn for support.
“I may be able to manage everything myself right now, but I know that at some point I’ll need to grow and scale. When that time comes, I know Newburyport Bank will be there to support that next stage.”
While she maintains accounts at larger banks, they’re rarely used.
“I prefer the personal banking experience. Having a bank that understands entrepreneurs and supports local businesses makes all the difference.”
For Newburyport Bank, relationships like these are exactly what Journey Well means.
It’s about knowing your customers, supporting their ambitions, and helping them build something meaningful — every step of the way.
Let’s Grow What You’ve Built
Just like the businesses you’ve read about, your journey is uniquely yours—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Newburyport Bank, we partner with local businesses to provide thoughtful guidance, personalized service, and solutions designed to help you succeed. View our products and services to see how help your business.