PECOS Pro

Matt Register

Matt Register is the pitmaster behind Southern Smoke BBQ and South Catering in Garland, North Carolina. What began as a way to teach his three kids a piece of their Eastern North Carolina heritage became a calling: old-school, wood-fired barbecue cooked low and slow. Twelve years after 75 people lined up on opening day at a converted small-town fish market, Matt is still tending the fires — and still doing it at home, where it all started.

Q + A

Why is Garland where you decided to plant Southern Smoke's roots?

Garland is home. I grew up about 13 miles away, but my grandparents lived there, so I spent a lot of my childhood in town. When Jessica and I got married, Garland was where we chose to put down roots. I only left Eastern North Carolina once in my life, and that was for about nine months. When I came back, I swore I'd never leave again. Whether we succeeded or failed, I was determined to do it at home.

What made you decide to pursue a career in the outdoors, and why is it essential to who you are?

I've always been drawn to the outdoors. I grew up as an outside kid—I hunted, fished, surfed, and played sports. Being outside was just part of everyday life. Today, I'm fortunate enough to make a living doing something I love, and a big part of that is being outdoors. I get to stand outside, build fires, cook food, and connect with people. That's a pretty special way to spend your days, and it's a big part of who I am.

What is it about Pecos that makes you excited to work with their products?

First, it's the product itself. We work in a tough, demanding business where equipment gets put through the wringer every day. We're constantly on the move, loading in, loading out, and setting up in all kinds of conditions. I also employ a lot of teenagers, and if something can be torn up, they'll usually find a way—but not with Pecos products. Second, it's the people behind the brand. We've been fortunate to get to know the team at Pecos, and I've always believed in doing business with good people. It didn't take long to realize that the folks at Pecos are exactly that. It's easy to get behind a company that builds a great product and is made up of even better people.

Which product do you like the most, and how does it help you with your job?

The table and its accessories are my favorite products. In the catering and BBQ world, you're constantly on the move, and the last thing you want to do is waste time hunting for a workspace. With the Pecos table, I know that every time we arrive on-site, I can be set up and working within minutes. The mobility, durability, and versatility make a huge difference. It takes one less thing off my mind in what can often be a very chaotic environment, and that peace of mind is invaluable.