DEAR ABBY: I bring a hostess gift when I'm invited to someone's home for a dinner or a party. If it's a birthday party or shower, I bring a gift for the honoree. Should I bring one to a "purchase party," where a company rep sells products, kitchen gadgets or clothing? The hostess provides her home and food, and she usually receives thank-you gifts in the form of products from the company rep, based on how much the guests purchase.
Is it OK to show up empty-handed, knowing that I'll be opening my wallet to purchase something at the end of the party? -- UNSURE GUEST
DEAR UNSURE: Absolutely. When invited to an event the purpose of which is to get you to buy something, your presence is present enough!