Mix your softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until it's smooth and spreadable. I use a hand mixer and it takes about 2 minutes tops. Don't overbeat or it gets weirdly grainy.

Spread the cream cheese mixture onto your board or large platter in an even layer. Leave some edges showing because it looks prettier that way. You want about a 1/4-inch thickness, nothing too thick.

Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, then sprinkle this mixture over half the cream cheese. This is your crust layer and it stays crunchy even with the moisture underneath (trust me on this). Pat it down gently so it sticks.

Arrange berries in sections to create your patriotic pattern. Put blueberries and blackberries on one side for the blue, strawberries in the middle for red. Leave space between sections so everything shows up clearly on your 4th july dessert board family spread.

Scatter the cheddar cheese cubes, pistachios, and almonds across the board in random spots. The salty cheese against sweet berries is kinda genius, and honestly the secret weapon that makes people ask for your recipe.

Toss marshmallows wherever you see open space and sprinkle lemon zest over everything for brightness. The lemon zest cuts through the sweetness without being obvious. Seriously this one ingredient gets more compliments than it deserves.

Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving so everything stays cold and fresh. I know it's tempting to dig in right away, but cold boards taste better and hold together longer.