Who We Are

Explore Elk Grove is a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization that inspires locals and visitors alike to visit, shop, dine, meet and gather at our local businesses, parks, attractions, hotels and venues in order to foster positive economic development for Elk Grove.

Our team is also responsible for producing a number of community events throughout the year, many of which are supported by local volunteers who share a passion for promoting Elk Grove. To learn more about volunteer opportunities and to connect with our team, click here.

Mission

Explore Elk Grove’s mission is to create and deliver value to its stakeholders including visitors, the tourism industry, the community and local government.

Vision

The vision of Explore Elk Grove is to elevate the assets we have, uncover opportunities that drive economic impact, and enhance the quality of life for our community and visitors alike.

Aaryn Val, Executive Director

Phone: (916) 512-8211

Email: aaryn@exploreelkgrove.com

As the driving force behind Explore Elk Grove, Aaryn Val is a visionary leader dedicated to fostering community engagement and promoting the unique charm of Elk Grove. With a rich background in hospitality, marketing, and sales, she brings a wealth of experience to the role.

Aaryn is passionate about showcasing Elk Grove’s diverse offerings—from its cultural events to its natural wonders. Under her guidance, Explore Elk Grove has flourished as a hub for locals and visitors alike, facilitating memorable experiences and contributing to the city’s growth.

Known for her strategic mindset and collaborative approach, Aaryn works tirelessly to strengthen partnerships with local businesses, sports organizations, meeting planners, community groups, and government entities. She believes in the power of collaboration to drive positive change and elevate Elk Grove’s profile on a regional, statewide, and national scale.

In addition to her professional role, Aaryn serves as a commissioner on the City of Elk Grove’s Arts & Creative Economy Commission and is a proud member of the Elk Grove High School TDA Advisory Committee. She is a dedicated wife and mother of three, actively involved in the Elk Grove Unified School District and supportive of many community initiatives.

With a forward-thinking mindset and a genuine passion for Elk Grove’s unique character, Aaryn continues to guide Explore Elk Grove toward new heights, ensuring the city remains a vibrant and welcoming destination for years to come.

Favorite things to do in Elk Grove: Exploring the bike trails with family and friends, strolling Main Street, sipping coffee at Tule, and enjoying local flavors—like the beet salad at Prost, the unforgettable blue cheese burger at South Slope Winery, the machaca at Sabor (a beloved neighborhood favorite), the Mediterranean bowl at Crest Café (an office go-to), and the decadent lobster mac at SR Prime inside Sky River Casino.

Casey Fabbri, Director of Marketing & Events

Phone: (916) 512-8211

Email: casey@exploreelkgrove.com

Casey is a Sonoma State alumni with a background in hospitality and marketing. Her experience in social media marketing, digital advertising, and event campaigns is impressive. She is a creative thinker with strong organizational and communication skills, adept at developing innovative strategies to drive brand awareness and engagement. She is passionate about creating memorable experiences for visitors and the community alike.

Favorite things to do in Elk Grove: Exploring the many trails and outdoor parks in the community and shopping at local boutiques.

Favorite things to eat or drink in Elk Grove: Enjoying tacos and margaritas at Pig Latin with friends, or sipping sparkling wine at one of Elk Grove's many wineries

Michelle Mohsenzadegan, Sales Manager

Phone: (916) 512-8211

Email: michelle@explroreelkgrove.com

Michelle joins the team at Explore Elk Grove as our Sales Manager, bringing a strong background in Business Management and Hospitality, gained through over a decade of local small business ownership. With her deep roots in Elk Grove and proven expertise in business development and customer service, Michelle is well-positioned to build lasting relationships, uncover new opportunities, and book sports events, meetings, and special events that will strengthen the city’s tourism economy.

As an Elk Grove resident, Michelle is passionate about promoting and growing the community in which she both works and lives. She is driven by the desire to create meaningful partnerships with businesses, organizations, and residents alike, helping to foster the continued growth and success of Elk Grove. Whether through curating business connections or actively volunteering with local youth sports organizations, you’re sure to see her around town.

Favorite things to do in Elk Grove: Exploring the many parks with her family and pups, and frequenting the local sports fields.

Favorite things to eat or drink in Elk Grove: Enjoying decadent food and drinks from favorites like Tule Coffee, Pig Latin, Prost, and Streetzlan. Weekends are filled with live music at local breweries and wineries.

Nina Youn, Content Marketing Manager

Phone: (916) 512-8211

Email: nina@exploreelkgrove.com

Nina, also a UC Davis alumni, is our Marketing Coordinator fueled by boundless creativity when it comes to crafting exceptional content and mastering the art of social media. From crafting content that sparkles with imagination to orchestrating social media symphonies that resonate, she is our go-to sorcerer for all things marketing. With a knack for deciphering market trends and a keen eye for detail, Nina specializes in translating ideas into action. Whether it's devising innovative marketing strategies or orchestrating seamless campaigns, she is committed to driving results that matter.

Favorite things to do in Elk Grove: Attending special events with her husband at local wineries, restaurants, parks and more!

Favorite things to eat or drink in Elk Grove: Sipping on wine at local wineries and visiting food truck markets!

Olivia Hermann, Visitor Experience & Operations Specialist

Phone: (916) 512-8211

Email: olivia@exploreelkgrove.com

Olivia is a Cal Poly San Luis Obispo alumna with a degree in Journalism and Public Relations. With a strong background in storytelling and a passion for community connection, she brings a fresh and thoughtful perspective to the Explore Elk Grove team. As a proud Elk Grove native, Olivia is eager to share her local knowledge and love for the outdoors while helping visitors make the most of their time in the city. Her enthusiasm for tourism and genuine care for the community make her a valuable addition to our team.

Favorite things to do in Elk Grove: Jogging through Elk Grove Park, biking along scenic trails, and enjoying live music at local breweries and wineries like Dust Bowl and Adkins.

Favorite things to eat or drink in Elk Grove: Grabbing sushi at Fujiya, sipping cocktails at Umai or Sheldon Inn, and fueling up with a coconut latte from Carpenter Coffee or a strawberry matcha from Tule Coffeehouse!

Elk Grove Civic Summer Interns

Phone: (916) 512-8211

Email: interns@exploreelkgrove.com

Explore Elk Grove is honored to participate in the Elk Grove Civic Summer program. These temporary interns are ready to make the most of this opportunity, leveraging their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to contribute to our team's success. Their unwavering dedication to achieving results and their ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment make them a true force to be reckoned with.

Join us in welcoming them, as they embark on this exciting journey to unleash their customer service, hospitality, sales, and marketing prowess. Together, we will forge new pathways, drive impactful campaigns, and create unforgettable experiences that elevate our brand to new heights.

When they aren't busy expanding their knowledge and making a lasting impact, you'll find them exploring diverse interests. They believe in the power of embracing a well-rounded education and are committed to making a difference in both the academic and social spheres.

Get ready to witness the rise of this remarkable high school intern as they step into the world of professional growth, armed with ambition, resilience, and a thirst for excellence. Together, let's celebrate their journey towards a brighter future."

Volunteer Opportunities

Are you passionate about Elk Grove and have a desire to help visitors and local residents enjoy their time in our community? Do you have an interest in a career in the travel, tourism or hospitality industries? If so, we invite you to sign up to become an official Explore Elk Grove volunteer!

Learn More