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.
As hosts take stock of what worked—and what didn’t—during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s gatherings, many are already thinking about how to do it better next time.
The holidays may be over, but the lessons linger. From guest lists that felt awkward to invitations that unintentionally excluded someone, end-of-year entertaining often reveals blind spots that only become clear in hindsight.
In this column, etiquette expert Lisa Burdette offers practical guidance on how to craft invitations that are warm, inclusive, and thoughtful—advice that applies not just to holiday celebrations, but to every dinner party, milestone event, or casual get-together you’ll host in the year ahead.
The Art of Inclusive Invitations: How to word holiday party invites to make everyone feel welcome, including blended families, plus-ones, or those celebrating non-traditional holidays alongside Thanksgiving or Christmas.
If you were to ask me what the term “inclusive invitations” means, I would reply with, “Inclusive means everyone.” Remember to invite everyone you know and tell your guest they are free to bring a significant other.
When gathering as friends or family, your invite should be worded inclusively, and no one should be left out. Make certain your wording is friendly and welcoming so that your guests don’t question as to whether they are wanted or not.
Make the focus of the season about your celebration. If you are a Christian and inviting people of the Jewish faith, you might state on your invitation that all faiths are welcome. Similarly, if you mention “Christmas” on the invite, be sure to include Hanukkah and celebrations from other faiths. This is important.
On the invitation, make sure you are clear as to what you are celebrating at the event. Include gratitude and appreciation for all, so everyone feels welcome. I always invite individuals from other faiths, cultures, etc. The key to successful interactions is in how you engage with those who are different from you. Part of good manners is the ability to socialize with anyone from another race, creed, or color.
Think about the purpose of your event. Understand that good manners are inherently inclusive and emphasize putting others before one’s own feelings, beliefs, and cultural differences. When you create your invitation, remember to think about everyone on your guest list and be sensitive to their cultural background, faith, and beliefs.
Try to make the invite fun and funny and use verbiage in such a way that would make people from any race, creed, color, or age feel special. A suggestion for a Holiday Party invite might be…
Mingle and Jingle with Elliott and Lisa Burdette
Join us for holiday fun and a musical, joyful evening of fellowship.
Friday, December 12, 2025 at 7 PM
Parkhouse Club
Dallas, TX 12345
Please RSVP by December 10, 2025
Another example could be…
Holiday Celebration
The weather outside is frightful but come join in our delightful fun. Please join us for dinner on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 6 PM.
The Patio Lawn of Burdette Place
123 ABC Street
Dallas, TX 12345
123-456-7890
At the end of the day, if you are truly seeking fellowship with friends, you will make certain that all your guests are made to feel welcome. That is when true hospitality will occur.
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.
Missed the last column? Click here to read: Burdet-tiquette: The DIY Hostess Guide For The Perfect Christmas Dinner
Also, check out Lisa’s recent interview with The Dallas Express: Navigating Grief During The Holidays: Etiquette Expert Shares Graceful Ways To Cope
Lisa Burdette
Readers can send their etiquette questions to [email protected].
