In 1986, with a commitment to providing each client with the close, personal attention they need and deserve, taxation and finance specialist Gary Capata founded Capata & Co. in Southern California.

Since then, Gary and his staff have been providing accounting and tax services to individuals and corporations including emerging enterprises, high net-worth individuals, partnerships, small businesses, and members of the entertainment, medical and legal professions.

Capata & Co. continues to grow on this rich heritage of personal service. The staff at Capata & Co. continues to invest time and resources in professional continuing education, state-of-the-art technology, and advanced training. 

As a result, clients willingly share with others their experiences working with Capata & Co.

We have been working with Gary and his wonderful team of professionals for over 25 years. His knowledge in all aspects of accounting is first class, they are not just an accounting firm, they are part of the family. We would recommend Gary and the firm of Capata & Co. to anyone who is looking for a CPA to take extra special care of either their business and/or personal accounting.

Gary has served for many years on the City Council, including being Mayor, which bears Testament to his commitment to help not only his clients but those in the community.

Thank you Gary

Dawn and Max S.

"Through good times and bad, Capata & Co. has been by our side continually providing caring, expert advise." James S.

 "We know we are a small company, but the staff at Capata & Co. always treat us as if we are their most important client." Barbara F.

 "Running a business can be a challenge, especially in today's environment. Capata & Co. has been our partner in helping us successfully navigate this new economy." Bob J.

 "For more than 15 years, Capata & Co. has been our CPA and our advisor. And they have been an excellent resource when we have had questions or needed expertise in other professional disciplines. They are our partner." William J.

GARY G. CAPATA, CPA

Educated at the University of Southern California, Gary Capata earned his undergraduate degree in accounting and an MBA in Taxation and Finance in 1977. After graduating, Gary garnered additional experience, knowledge and technical training at Arthur Young & Co. before founding Capata & Co. in 1986.

Throughout his more than 30 years as a CPA, Gary Capata has developed, written and taught numerous courses for the following prestigious organizations:  

• California CPA Society
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
• University of Southern California
• University of California, Los Angeles 

In 2010, Gary Capata was recognized by the California CPA Society when he received their Public Service award for his record of commitment to public service through participation in charitable, governmental, and volunteer work. 

Gary’s current community activities include:   

• City Council Member, and current Mayor of Laguna Niguel
• City Council Liaison to the Laguna Niguel Traffic and Transportation Commission; Investment, Banking and Audit Committee; and the Parks and Recreation Commission
• Orange County Fire Authority Board,  Budget and Finance Committee Chair
• Saddleback College Foundation
• Ocean Institute Board of Directors
• Board of Trustees – Group Insurance Trust CAL - CPA
• Laguna Niguel Rotary
• Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce
• Laguna Niguel Lion’s Club

In addition, Gary has served his community in the follow manner:   

• Past President of Lion’s Club of Laguna Niguel
• Past President of Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce
• Past Present of the Laguna Niguel Rotary
• Past President of Saddleback College Foundation
• Former Laguna Niguel Parks and Recreation Commissioner
• Former Laguna Niguel Transportation Commissioner
• Coach for Local Soccer and Little League Teams
• Indian Guide Chief
• Scout Leader

For nearly a quarter of a century, Gary Capata has been supported by a dedicated staff of knowledgeable and experienced accountants and professionals.

SUSAN P. CAUTHEN, CPA

Susan P. Cauthen received her Bachelor of Science degree from California Polytechnic State University, then continued her training at a local accounting firm in Riverside, California.  After passing her CPA exam on the first sitting, and several more years of experience, Susan began her career at Capata & Co. in 1987. Since then, Susan has served Capata & Co. clients through tax preparation and tax planning. Susan has built a long-term relationship with many of our clients and finds this to be one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.

In her spare time, Susan Cauthen enjoys traveling the world with her husband.

SUSAN CAPATA, CPA

In 1977 Sue Capata graduated from California State University at Northridge with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. After graduating Sue worked at the international accounting firm of Arthur Young & Co., then as a controller for a private mid-size consulting business. In 1995 Sue began her career at Capata & Co. Since then, Sue has assisted numerous small businesses and individuals with their accounting and taxation needs.

Sue Capata is a long-time resident of Orange County and in her spare time enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

JO ANN SHEIKH, ADMINISTRATOR

Jo Ann Sheikh received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California, Los Angeles. For more than 20 years Jo Ann and has provided full administrative and secretarial responsibilities at Capata & Co. including the liaison for all office management related activities. Jo Ann has extensive experience assisting Capata & Co. clients and ensuring confidentiality in all interactions. Jo Ann continues her education through various extension courses in management.

Jo Ann Sheikh is a long-time resident of Laguna Niguel and in her spare time enjoys traveling and keeping fit.

MARIA SERAFICA-STERMER, CPA

Maria Serafica-Stermer has over 18 years of accounting, finance and tax experience. Maria studied economics and accounting at the University of California, Los Angeles where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, and was class valedictorian. Maria specializes in providing external CFO services to small businesses, and accounting and tax services for specialized industries such as construction, restaurant, retail, entertainment and professional service corporations. Maria has served as an officer for several non-profit organizations in Southern California.

Maria is a former professional ballet dancer, is a co-founder of Aeolian Ballet Theatre/LA, and is an avid lover of the arts.

ANDREW AKOPOV, STAFF ACCOUNTANT

In 1981 Andrew Akopov graduated from California State University at Northridge with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. After graduating Andrew served as a staff accountant at several firms before beginning his association with Capata & Co. in 1987. Since then Andrew has prepared financial statements, tax returns and assisted with tax planning.

Andrew Akopov is fluent in Russian, and is an artist and composer. Andrew attended the Moscow Music Academy before immigrating to the United States. Andrew is the recipient of several awards for his musical talents including his album Face Value and his jazz group Kroog. In addition, Andrew is an accomplished photographer focusing on spaces that shelter us from the elements.

KERRIE MERRIFIELD – STAFF ACCOUNTANT

Kerrie Merrifield received her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Grand Canyon University. After graduation Kerrie began her accounting career at Ernst & Young and has more than 20 years of accounting experience in various industries including entertainment, restaurant, and hotel. Kerrie specializes in litigation support and forensic accounting.

Kerrie Merrifield lives in Laguna Niguel with her family. In her spare time Kerrie enjoys the beach, cooking, and attending sporting events.

CHRISTINE M. BLAUVELT

A Registered Preparer with California Tax Education Council since 1997, Christine has over 25 years of experience in small business and corporate accounting. Her focus is on-site training, set-up, Quickbooks and computer support. She enjoys working directly with clients, providing support in an easy to understand hands on environment.

Christine spends her free time playing music, surfing with her family and driving her convertible along the coast in her home town of Huntington Beach.