I have sworn off peddler parties. It wasn’t my idea originally. Up until fairly recently I was a regular at hosting parties for friends who were starting new businesses — Mary Kay, Tupperware, Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, Southern Living, jewelry, candles, Usborne Books, Discovery Toys. You name it, I’ve been to a party or hosted one. That was until my very honest neighbor said, “I’m sorry, I don’t do peddler parties.” And that’s when the light clicked on, and now I don’t either. That’s when I realized that I don’t like being put in that situation. For instance, I just got an invitation to a neighbor’s jewelry party. “Come accessorize all your summer outfits,” she beckons. Actually, I’d like to get to know this neighbor, to see if they would be fun to socialize with. But I don’t want to have to pay to hang out with her, if you know what I mean. I used to go to these so-called parties under the guise of being supportive. “I don’t have to buy anything, I’ll just go to give her practice.” But that feels crappy. I’m pretty good at not doing things out of obligation but even I’ve succumbed. Either throw a party or don’t, but don’t try to sell me something and call it a party.
So, don’t take it personally but if you invite me to a peddler party or ask me to host one for you I’m most likely going to decline. However, if you want to invite me to hang out and party with you, I’ll bring the wine.