Behind NWPRT: Brad Barton on Newport Beach, Community, and What’s Next

If you spend much time around Newport Beach, you’ve probably noticed those five letters showing up on more and more hats: NWPRT.

I recently sat down with my friend Brad Barton of NWPRT to talk about how a brand built around our community has grown into something people throughout coastal Orange County are excited to wear. We covered the hats, the beer he has already launched, his newly launched tequila, supporting our local firefighters and lifeguards, and a collaboration I have been looking forward to sharing.

You heard it here first: we’re collaborating on hats! I’m so excited to be part of this growing local brand, especially because of the community behind it.

How NWPRT Became Part of Newport Beach

The name takes Newport and removes the vowels, leaving a simple mark that has become familiar around town. What started with hats has grown into a broader lifestyle brand, with community at the center.

There is something fun about seeing people wearing a brand that represents a place you love. Whether you live here, grew up here, or return whenever you can, it gives you a little connection to Newport.

You can also experience the brand in person at the NWPRT flagship store at 110 22nd Street, near Newport Pier and Blackie’s Beach on the Balboa Peninsula. It’s a fitting location for a brand so closely connected to our beach community.

From NWPRT Hats to Beer and Newly Launched Tequila

With NWPRT beer already launched and NWPRT Tequila making its recent debut, Brad has given us plenty to talk about.

During our conversation, we discuss how those ideas came together and what it takes to expand a brand that people already associate with Newport Beach. Of course, I was happy to spend a little time talking tequila, but I also loved hearing about the thinking behind these next chapters.

When a local brand grows, keeping that original connection to the community matters. That was one of the things I most wanted to hear from Brad: how he sees NWPRT evolving while staying connected to the people who helped build it.

Supporting Newport Beach Firefighters and Lifeguards

We also talk about supporting our local firefighters and lifeguards, people whose work means so much to this community.

NWPRT’s First Responders Collection includes Newport Fire Department and Newport Beach Lifeguard hats, bringing that local recognition into the brand’s apparel.

I’m glad we made time for this part of the conversation. Living along the coast, we appreciate our beaches and everything we get to enjoy here. Recognizing the people who help protect our community deserves attention, too.

You Heard It Here First: Our Hat Collaboration

One part of this interview is especially exciting for me: my own hat collaboration with Brad and NWPRT.

I love supporting local businesses, and being able to participate in something that feels so connected to Newport makes this even more special. I’m excited to share more as it comes together, but for now, you’re hearing it here first.

A Local Perspective on Living in Newport Beach

I have lived in Newport Beach since 1993 and have raised my own family in Newport Heights since 2009. I’ve watched businesses open, friendships grow, and local ideas become familiar parts of life here. Getting to share those stories is one of my favorite parts of what I do.

When clients are considering a home in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Corona del Mar, or Newport Coast, our conversations often go well beyond the property itself. They want to get a feel for the neighborhoods, discover their favorite local spots, and picture their everyday lives here.

Sharing conversations with people like Brad gives them a closer look at that experience. Local businesses contribute so much to the personality of coastal Orange County, and I love introducing the people behind them.

Watch my full conversation with Brad Barton to hear about NWPRT’s story, its beer, the newly launched tequila, community involvement, and our upcoming hat collaboration.

Explore the brand at NWPRT. If you’re considering buying or selling in coastal Orange County, I’d love to help you explore the neighborhoods and opportunities that fit your next chapter. Visit annieclougherty.com.

Annie Clougherty
Annie Clougherty Team | SERHANT.
California DRE #01716801