Six Wow-Worthy Hosting Hacks for Summer Gatherings

We love summertime in Colorado, and we believe that hosting guests in your home during the warmest months adds a special vibrancy to any gathering. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ or a sunset soirée, here at Shea Homes® we’ve compiled the best hosting hacks that will help you create an unforgettable experience for your guests while embracing the spirit of summer. Read on for our favorite tips and tricks!

Create a Sunny Welcome
Start your summer gathering off right by creating an inviting entrance. Brighten up your home’s entrance with pots of colorful summer flowers, a cheery welcome sign, and perhaps some beach-themed décor if you’re going for a coastal-meets-the-Front-Range vibe. Consider adding a refreshing drink station nearby with iced lemonade or fruity cocktails to greet your guests in a memorable (and delicious) way.

Set Up a Refreshing Beverage Bar
Beat the summer heat with a stylish self-serve beverage station. Offer a variety of chilled drinks such as sangria, iced tea, or flavored water infused with fresh fruits. Keep drinks cool in buckets filled with ice and add fun, colorful straws or drink umbrellas for a playful touch. It’ll be a breeze to whip up tasty concoctions in your beautiful kitchen!

Serve Seasonal Delights
Delight your guests’ taste buds with a menu that celebrates summer flavors. Think grilled meat or vegetable skewers, fresh salads with seasonal produce, and decadent desserts featuring berries or tropical fruits. Incorporate light and refreshing options that complement the warm weather and outdoor ambiance, creating a meal that your loved ones and neighbors will be talking about all summer long.

Illuminate with Summer Lights
Create a magical summer evening atmosphere with strategic lighting, using string lights or lanterns to illuminate outdoor areas where guests will gather. Inside, opt for a soft, warm glow to enhance a cozy dinner setting or brighter lights for active games and conversations.

Plan Fun Summer Activities
Keep the summer vibes going with planned activities that make the most of the season. Set up lawn games like cornhole or bocce ball for outdoor fun or take advantage of the exciting events hosted by your local Shea® community. For a more relaxed vibe, create a DIY s’mores station or a sundae bar where guests can customize their summer treats.

Embrace Outdoor Living
If you have outdoor space, maximize it! Create inviting seating areas with comfortable cushions or hammocks where guests can relax and enjoy the Colorado summer breeze. Provide blankets or throws for cooler evenings and set up a fire pit for cozy gatherings under the stars.

Hosting a summer gathering should be as enjoyable for you as it is for your guests, and we’re so proud that our communities make this easy for our residents. Use these hacks to elevate your hosting game and create lasting memories in the warm, sunny days of summer — cheers to sunshine, good company, and unforgettable summer gatherings with Shea Homes®!