Hot Seat with Brandon Braaten & Josh Perkins
- Montana Edit
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Brandon Braaten, a Stevensville insurance agent, built his career on trust and genuine care—values he shares with his husband, Josh Perkins, a local Realtor. From the agriculture classroom to building their own event venue, the couple has created a life centered on community and connection. They've poured their hearts into The Barn on Pine Hollow, their Bitterroot Valley event space, and Pine Hollow Ranch, their warm and welcoming Airbnb. Both ventures reflect the meaningful experiences and deep Montana roots that define their partnership.
Brandon, what drew you to a career in Insurance?
I had taught agriculture education for 11 years and was looking for a career that was more compatible with my husband's career as a Realtor.
Brandon, insurance can feel intimidating to people, what’s one common misconception you wish more clients understood about it?
Insurance is very intimidating but having an agent you trust is important. "I pay for insurance so I should be able to use it whenever I want..." is an important misconception. Insurance is not a replacement for the responsibilities of homeownership.
Together, you’ve created a beautiful Airbnb and event space. What inspired the idea?
Our Airbnb journey started with a house we flipped in Deer Lodge, we set the barn up as a space to host our 10 Year Wedding Anniversary Party and it evolved from there into an event space.
What are you cooking this fall/winter?
Soups and comfort food rule our household in the winter.
From your experience together, what tips would you give to someone considering an Airbnb or event rental?
Research the market demands, it seems like there are more and more airbnb's and after buying furnishings and supplies they are sometimes not any more profitable than a long term rental. Trust your gut with people, not everyone is a good fit for your space. But you can build lifelong friendships with so many people through rentals and it is super rewarding.
What's your signature drink order?
Espresso Martini
Do any skills from your professions overlap with running an event space?
We are new to running an event space however like our "real jobs" its about people; participating in their excitement, predicting needs and desires, navigating concerns and questions...
Preferred way for potential clients or guests to contact you?
Brandon Braaten (406-327-6596) Brandon.Braaten@MarshMMA.com
Josh Perkins (406-491-4365) ExperienceMontanaRentals@Gmail.com
Check Out The Barn on Pine Hallow
397 PINE HOLLOW RD | STEVENSVILLE, MT
From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations,The Barn on Pine Hollow was designed to host them all. The barn offers warm wood interiors, modern amenities, and dramatic views of the Bitterroot Mountains, it’s the perfect backdrop for your Montana event.
