Welcome to Burdet-tiquette, where Lisa Burdette, founder of The Dallas School of Etiquette and a mother of six with global expertise, answers your questions on the art of courtesy.
Sometimes etiquette questions simply can not wait. Things come up suddenly, or you find yourself in a new social territory without any road map for how to navigate it. Other times, all you need is some quick advice to get you set in the right direction.
In this spirit, The Dallas Express has launched Burdet-tiquette Rapid Response, the minuteman unit of Lisa Burdette’s iconic Burdet-tiquette advice column. From her headquarters at The Dallas School of Etiquette, Lisa gives quick responses to the most pressing etiquette questions.
Like a general guiding her troops through the front lines, she is ready to help those with questions conquer the world with etiquette.
Dear Lisa,
I’m 24 years old and getting married next year. My dad and I had talked about inviting his boss because they have a friendly relationship. But after reviewing our budget, we decided to have a smaller wedding and not invite him to save money. Unfortunately, there was a miscommunication with the invitations and his invite was sent anyway. He has not responded yet. I’m panicking about what to do next. Should we reach out and explain the mistake, or just wait and see? This is causing me a lot of anxiety during what should be a happy time.
Thank you for your help,
Emily
24
Arlington, TX
Lisa’s response:
If you have already invited your Dad’s boss to the wedding, you will need to find a way to make your budget work around the additional guest(s). Consider cutting back on other items to save on the wedding costs…less food, more people etc. Friendships and those important in our lives should not be left out. By allowing your Dad’s boss the chance to attend your wedding, you give your Dad a stronger connection to his boss, which may contribute to a work advancement.
About Lisa
Lisa Burdette is the founder of The Dallas School of Etiquette, where she trains everyone from executives to cadets in the timeless art of courtesy. A mother of six and a graduate of Auburn University, she has studied etiquette in London, Paris, Washington, and beyond. She believes true etiquette isn’t about being fancy — it’s about how you make people feel.
Readers can send their etiquette questions to [email protected]
Missed the last column? Click here to read: Burdet-tiquette: Why Etiquette Still Matters in the Global, AI-Driven Economy
