NPSR - Nice ways to say no to friends...

jalaiaa

I have a few friends who recently have all started to sell things (Thirty-one, Mary Kay, Arbonne). I'm not a big fan of going to the parties and the last thing I want to do is host a party. I hate the way that I feel guilty if I don't buy anything and if I do buy something it is just to be supportive and not because I want the products so I feel guilty that I am spending money that I should be spending elsewhere.

I have one friend in particular who is being very persistent recently. First I just said I was busy for the first 3 parties she invited me to (which I was), then she said she'd work around my schedule to give me a facial privately. I thought I was being very direct and said, while I love facials I'm not in a place to be spending extra money right now. So then she asks if I can host a party. I swear, anytime my friends pick up one of these new jobs I feel like it ruins the friendship. 

How can I say, "stop trying to sell me stuff and stop asking me to sell it for you" in a kind and gentle yet definitive manner? 

74dragonfly

"I think it is great you found something you love doing but I'm not interested in hosting. I'd love to meet you for lunch or coffee soon so we can catch up". That way she knows you still want to see her.

lauren&matt

I am totally with you; I hate that kind of stuff. The PPs gave great ideas. I will say, I adopted an internal rule a LONG time ago... I decline all invitations of that type. That way, I'm never seen at one "party" while while not attending another. Over the years, it has become much easier to say no. GL!