Having friends over does not need a long list of preparations. Often the most memorable evenings start with a simple table and a pot of something on the stove.
Begin with the basics. A plate for everyone, a glass, a fork and knife, and a napkin. Set them the same way at each place and the table already looks considered.
A carafe of water in the middle saves anyone from getting up all evening, and ribbed glasses catch the light in a way that makes even tap water look inviting. If you serve bread, put it on a wooden board so people can help themselves.
Leave room in the middle of the table. Shared dishes are part of the fun, and a crowded table makes passing them around awkward. A small vase with a few stems from the garden or the market is enough decoration. Anything taller gets in the way of conversation.
Napkins do a lot of work for very little. Folded once and placed on the plate, they make the setting feel finished. Paper works well for a casual dinner, cotton or linen for when you want the evening to feel a little more special.
In the end, people remember the company and the food. The table is simply there to make both feel welcome.