Catching Up with Blake Ladd

I recently reconnected with an old friend from Crane Country Day School, Blake Ladd. We both entered Crane at the same time and had the same unfettered enthusiasm for the arts and creative energy. For this week’s Dear Montecito, I bring you an update on one of Montecito’s greatest – a great actor, entrepreneur, and I’m grateful to say – friend. 

Q. How would you describe your relationship to Montecito and Santa Barbara?

A. Quite simply, it’s home. It’s where my sister Bianca and I grew up, and where my family and friends are. Regardless of where I go in life, those ties remain.

I’ve come to appreciate Santa Barbara not only as a home base, but as a destination as well. I’ve even joined the cliché migratory pattern from L.A.-to-Santa Barbara on weekends – making the journey more often than I care to admit. 

Living in the westside of L.A., what are things you enjoy about Los Angeles and miss about Montecito?

Having lived in both areas, I have a deep appreciation for their respective, unique qualities. Growing up, I always craved the energy and cultural vibrancy that Los Angeles has to offer – and the fact you can get food past 10 pm is a major plus. Life moves at a more relaxed pace in Montecito. When I come home, it’s the tranquility, natural beauty, and sense of community that I appreciate most. It’s the quintessential ‘grass is always greener’ scenario, and I’m grateful to have both experiences. 

What was your school track in Montecito? What did you pursue following your Montecito education, and where is your career now?

I went to Cold Spring School for elementary, then continued on to Crane for middle school. During these formative years, I discovered my love for music and acting. I started out in local theater productions with The Adderley School and eventually expanded into television, print, and music – even seeing one of my songs picked up by Disney. 

After attending Santa Barbara High, I went to UCLA where I graduated with a degree in Sociology and a minor in Global Studies. My college years allowed me to cultivate my interest in social structures, human behaviors and cultures. These interests led to my early career at digital marketing agencies and media companies, working closely with brands to build lasting connections with their audience.

Today, my passion for entertainment, media, and the human connection has led to my role at BeReal, a social networking app. BeReal asks users to take candid pictures at unannounced times of the day to encourage a more candid social media experience. I joined the team at a pivotal time, right as the platform launched its U.S. advertising efforts. I work with brands that appreciate being ahead of the curve, such as Dior and Netflix, developing ad solutions that resonate with Gen Z. We’re living in a moment where audiences are increasingly fatigued with the veneered perfection that seems to be the status quo on legacy platforms, and it’s rewarding to be at the forefront of something that’s redefining how we interact digitally.

How has living in Montecito affected how you interpret the rest of the world, your travels, and where you live now?

Growing up in Montecito has undeniably shaped my perception of the world. Being surrounded by people who’ve achieved remarkable things showed me early on that anything is possible – and more importantly, that I should pursue my own ambitions without hesitation. Whether it’s pursuing acting and music, or paths which satisfy my entrepreneurial spirit, I move forward with confidence, inspired by the tangible examples of success within my community. 

Montecito is such a special place, and the more I’ve explored the world, the more my appreciation for my hometown has grown. No matter where life takes me, there truly is no place like home.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

The phrase, “There’s only one you” has been my mantra for the longest time. It’s simple, but I find it useful in a variety of life situations. 

It’s easy to compare ourselves to our peers, neighbors, and even those we see on social media. This phrase helps me focus on my own journey rather than my progress in relation to someone else. Moreover, it serves as a reminder that individuality isn’t just something to accept – it’s something to celebrate.

Is there a hidden gem in Montecito or Santa Barbara that you want to dish to
our readers?

It’s not very secret, but I have to show some love to Miramar Beach at sunset – and let’s be honest, what local is going to give up their favorite under-the-radar spots to the first person who asks?

All jokes aside, the ambiance of the waves and the natural beauty of Miramar’s shoreline make it the perfect place to unwind, reflect, and appreciate the moment.