The Elston family brings a rich tapestry of Nevada history to Caughlin Ranch. Sommer Elston, a fifth-generation Nevadan, is raising her three sons as sixth-generation natives in a neighborhood they’ve grown to love. Sommer, along with her boys— Parker (10), Dawson (8), and Sawyer (5)—shares their home with Rudy, their 12-year-old black lab, who rounds out this lively household. 

With deep roots in Northern Nevada, the Elstons embody the spirit of the Silver State. Sommer, a graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, with a bachelor’s degree in advertising, also earned an associate degree in graphic communications from TMCC. She puts her expertise to work running media and design for The Roundabout Group while also managing her own business, With Love From Reno, and doing freelance branding and design for small businesses. 

The Elston boys are active in the community. Parker is involved in his local 4-H chapter, while he and Dawson both play baseball for Reno National. The youngest, Sawyer, keeps busy on the soccer field. Family traditions play a significant role in the Elston household. The Reno Rodeo is a cherished event they look forward to every year, with the boys’ father deeply involved. They also make a point to attend the Nevada Day parade in Carson City annually and spend Fourth of July camping in Graeagle with family. 

As a family, they love spending time outdoors. Camping trips to Graeagle provide a chance to unplug and enjoy nature, while gathering with friends for backyard barbecues, game nights, or music in the park on Sunday afternoons in Caughlin Ranch is a favorite pastime. Sommer also has her own hobbies. She enjoys reading, and trying new local restaurants, and traveling for concerts and celebrations with friends—especially to warm-weather destinations. She makes semi-annual trips to Bodega Bay, which she always looks forward to. 

Beyond their personal and professional lives, the Elstons are committed to giving back. They are strong supporters of the Reno Rodeo and the RAVE Foundation, and through her work, Sommer collaborates on projects with The Boys & Girls Club. The family’s local favorites include Super Burrito, South Creek Pizza, and Twisted Fork for dining out. When it’s time for a getaway, they enjoy trips to Graeagle, San Francisco, and Maui. 

Sports and music are also a big part of their lives. The family cheers for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Taylor Swift’s music is often playing in their home. The Elstons appreciate the sense of community in Caughlin Ranch. “We are so grateful for our neighborhood,” Sommer shares. “When we first purchased our home in Caughlin Ranch, it was mostly older families, but in recent years, it has filled with kids the same age as mine. Our neighborhood now feels like a close-knit group of friends, which we really enjoy.” 

They also love the central location of Caughlin Ranch, which offers easy access to all parts of Reno. The area’s parks, nearby restaurants, and its uncrowded feel make it an ideal place to call home. As fifth and sixth-generation Nevadans, the Elstons bring a unique perspective to Caughlin Ranch. Their commitment to local traditions, community involvement, and neighborly spirit make them a valuable part of the neighborhood. Whether they’re cheering at a baseball game, supporting local nonprofits, or participating in time-honored Nevada traditions, the Elstons embody the warm, welcoming spirit that makes this community special.