Meet local realtor and dad of two, Branden.
Where are you from originally?
I grew up in Irvine, went to University High School and college at University of San Diego.
How long have you lived in Costa Mesa? How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
We have lived in the Eastside CM area for around 8 years. We have 2 kids. Nate who is 8 and Whitney who is 6.
What are your favorite things to do with your kids in general or in town? 
My favorite thing to do with my son, Nate, is play basketball. He just started getting into basketball and has been obsessed playing horse! We have a basketball hoop above our garage and it’s a lot of fun playing with him.
My favorite thing to do with my daughter, Whitney, is play soccer with her. She’s super competitive and its really fun watching her during competition. She’s relentless with trying to get the ball from me and she always succeeds. I’m old and slow!!
What’s your favorite restaurant in town for a family date? Date night? Why?
For a family date I am going with Pandor for brunch. They have great food and it’s a good place to bring the kids.
A Restaurant is my favorite restaurant when Ashley and I are going out. You can’t beat the food and martinis at A Restaurant. From the steaks, to the yellowtail appetizer, everything is amazing. The martini straight up with blue cheese olives is the best as well.
What have been your favorite events in Costa Mesa or Newport Beach in the past?
The Orange County Fair! I cant wait for things to get back to normal so that opens back up in the summer!!! I always have the best time taking the kids there.
Do you have a favorite destination for family trips? Why?
I love going to the Grand Wailea with the family. It’s a lot of fun with younger kids because its non-stop fun going on the waterslides with them and relaxing at the pool and beach.
What have you missed the most since COVID upended everything?
Holiday parties, going to sporting events, eating inside restaurants.
Number 1 thing you are going to do when things return to “normal.”
Have a big party at my house!
What is one piece of advice you would pass along to other dads?
We are all trying to figure life out, but try and come up for air and enjoy the time you have with your family.
What is your current occupation? Has it changed over the years?
I am a real estate agent at Compass. I have been a real estate agent for around 10 years.
When you get time to yourself, what’s your favorite thing to do?
Watching the Lakers play or playing golf. I haven’t been playing golf much these days with work and kids, but always enjoy playing when I have the time.
#dadfail?
I have so many where do I even start? Well, I will share one good one. The other day I was in charge of picking my son up from school. For some reason I thought pickup was 30 minutes later than it was. I totally spaced! The school called my wife and my wife gave me s@#t all night! My wife is amazing at keeping all the kids schedules. I have trouble at times!!!
Thanks Branden!
