MEET THE TEAM
LINDA YOUNG
President/Managing Partner
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Linda Young’s experience comes from more than 10 years working in the gift service and manufacturing industries. She expanded her talents into the event production industry in 2007 with her husband Burton Young and good friend Andrea Shelly. Since the inception of the business, it has serviced high profile and nonprofit clients by understanding their goals and vision. Linda’s overall mission for Elite OC Productions is to treat every client like a partner and exceed the expectations of all participants from the beginning to the final stages of every event.
BROOKLYN BRYAN
Creative Director
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Brooklyn Bryan joined the Elite OC Productions team in 2018 after graduating from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, where she majored in Visual Communications. With her background in design and fashion, her eye for detail continuously brings innovative designs and ideas to life for our clients. Brooklyn prides herself to make every event a monumental date to remember. She creates a unique, signature event for each client that will truly reflect your style and personality. Brooklyn believes that a seamless event is not a luxury event, but it’s something that everyone deserves!
MICHAEL STROUT
Production Manager
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Michael Strout’s event experience comes from extensive,
high-profile service in the entertainment industry producing press junkets, film and television media events, and publicity material. His production background has provided him unique insight into the event industry, spanning from audio/visual to creative set design. Mike prides himself on treating every project like it is the biggest event of the year, no matter the budget or size. His ability to problem solve and flexibility to meet the client’s needs helps to make each event an exceptional Elite OC experience
BROOKE SCHAEFER
Event Assistant Associate​
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Brooke Schaefer joined the team in 2021 after graduating from the University of Arizona. During college, Brooke expanded her professional organizing skills in Los Angeles, which she has applied to her role in event planning. Brooke studied abroad in London and interned at a new Marriott property where she was exposed to venue contracting and event logistics. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Brooke moved to Orange County to advance her knowledge in event productions. Brooke is eager to learn and grow with the team see our clients vision come to life!
HALEY HUGHES
Senior Events Coordinator​
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Haley Hughes graduated from Boise State University in May 2022 with a degree in Communication and Certificates in Leadership and Human Relations. With these skills, she moved to Newport Beach, California to pursue a career at Elite OC Productions. Her passions for interpersonal connection, detail-oriented decision making, and leadership are strengths and add to client relations. Haley values creating a high-end guest experience to allow the planning process to be successful from beginning to end!
MICHELLE HARDING
Lead Event Manager
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Michelle Harding joined the team in 2012, as an intern and after graduating from Soka University of America in May 2012 joined full-time. During college, she was an A/V tech assistant and on the Graduation Fundraising Event Committee. Over the years she has grown her passion for events, logistics and watching the client’s vision come to life! In 2018, she moved to Texas working at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and gained experience in medical management. She returned to Elite OC Productions in the fall of 2021 and enjoys working with her Elite Team and clients!
KARI FILARDO
Director of Design & Concept​
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Kari Filardo joined the team in 2015 after studying fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. With her background in art and design and her passion for creating unique experiences her knowledge and skills are essential to Elite OC Productions for bringing our creative ideas to life for our clients. Kari continuously sets the tone for our events by overseeing the design department responsible for creating all original material for our events. Creating custom branding, designing invitations, logos, sponsorship packets, videos, digital content and websites are just a few of the design elements that Kari manages from concept to final production. Implementing our clients’ needs and vision with her creative designs continuously ties the entire event together to create an unforgettably beautiful event.
CHRIS ESCALERA
Project and Events Coordinator​
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Chris Escalera joins Elite OC Productions, bringing a wealth of experience in events and visual/creative production. After graduating from Cal State Fullerton with a bachelor’s in Television and Film Production, he initially began his career in the fashion industry, where he successfully designed and executed marketing campaigns, fashion shows, and events for Neiman Marcus. Chris then expanded his expertise by working on high-profile events for Mindy Weiss and David Rodgers. His energetic, electric style, coupled with a passion for creativity and client experiences, drives him to create not just great events, but one-of-a-kind immersive experiences that leave a lasting impact.
BELINDA PADILLA
Junior Graphic Designer​
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Belinda Padilla graduated with her Bachelor’s in Studio Art from Cal State Long Beach in 2019. During her time at Long Beach, she immersed herself in the arts and art direction while working at the Kleefeld Contemporary as a Student Preparator and Registrar Specialist. Her keen eye for detail, design, and love for D.I.Y. steered her into the events industry. She brings her experience from the wedding industry and public sector to work with any budget so that every client and guest feels inspired and celebrated at each event.
JESSICA SALAZAR
Fundraising Coordinator​
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Jessica Salazar’s event experience comes from her extensive background working for non-profit organizations. Elite OC Productions allows her to continue her passion for supporting curated experiences for organizations inspiring giving and raise awareness for a cause. Her background has not only provided her with unique insight into the fundraising events. But also working with staff and volunteers, coordinating and implementing strategic planning from beginning to end. Exploring creative fundraising ideas to engage donors, maximize participation, motivate immediate action.