Clarification on home parties

I would like to clarify my position on Home Parties, in case I offended anybody or made them feel like I don't appreciate being invited. It is the opposite, I really like going to the parties, and enjoy being part of the group. I also think the person hosting the party is very smart as they get some outrageously good deals on things they really want!

My only point I was trying to make is I can't believe how strong the urge to spend is when you go. It's that group mentality, and it's overwhelming. The last party on Friday night was a great case in point. I did not want to buy a purse, and had told the lady hosting the party so, that I couldn't afford it, and even with me going in to it with full intention of not buying anything, and I found myself floundering around going "oh my gosh I sooo need to buy one of these!!" Hmm... what colors should I get? And I was shocked with myself!!!

So here's my suggestion, if you go to one of those parties, and are certain before hand that you don't want to spend anything, or have a set limit in mind (say $20), post yourself a reminder of what you are saving for in your wallet (or in my case my pocket) or "call a friend" to ground yourself. There is nothing better than walking away from a great evening with a few items you REALLY want or need, feeling like you got a good deal. And nothing worse than buyer's remorse for buying something you don't even want in the first place, and are stuck with and have put yourself in a worse financial situation for that privilege!