1. Keep the spread simple: good olives, a hunk of manchego, and some rustic bread is all you need to start things off right. And wine. Always wine. {From Cox&Cox UK}

2. Take a tip from Cass Lavalle & jazz up an otherwise ordinary place setting by layering patterned pieces – these are from West Elm {via Rue Mag}

3. Original? Perhaps not these days. But everything really is more festive when you’re sipping your cocktail through candy-striped straws. {Etsy - $5 for 30}

4. Pin balloons to an empty wall to make a fun & colorful photo backdrop {via Shop Bando}

5. Serve drinks & eats on a lucite tray in a summery print {we heart this one from ParkerRain – $65}

6. Hang twinkle lights. Everywhere. Always. {via Martha Stewart}

7. Serve menus on fans so guests can keep cool on hot summer nights {via Style Me Pretty}

8. A simple (& budget friendly) place card holder {from Style Me Pretty}

9. Light up a (safe, please) bonfire & make s’mores for dessert (plus, save yourself from having to bake indoors in the summer heat) {via Style Me Pretty}

10. Send friends home with a little party favor in the form of a festive coaster {Etsy - $10 for set of 4}