Last week I received an anonymous tip from a male friend of mine notifying that his wife received of one of the most interesting bridal show invitations I have ever heard of…a Pampered Chef Wedding Shower! That email sent an immediate chill up my spine! After all, multi-level marketing and wedding showers DO NOT go together in my mind. And I don’t think it should be any bride’s intent to earn a gift or a reward based on how many gifts her guests give her, let alone buy in front of her. What happened to being grateful for giving and supportive family and friends??
BUT, before, I started going down that path, I decided to do a little searching on the topic, so I could shy away from my assumptions only! And here’s what I found…
The Upside:
- You earn FREE and discounted products, plus FREE shipping.
- You get 10% off your purchases for a year.
- The host puts on the party for you, so you might save a little money and time.
- Pampered Chef actually makes some really cool and decent quality kitchen items!
The Downside:
- You run the risk of offending people (especially if you suggest that guests opt out of gifts and purchase items directly at the shower).
- You put your friends and family in an awkward situation. Buying in front of other people is not cool, no matter how coy you try to be.
- Do your guests REALLY get a chance to enjoy themselves while being solicited to purchase items in front of everyone?
- No matter how you spin it, your host is in fact a sales person, and a multi-level marketing one at that! Eek!
While I won’t knock anyone for their choice in bridal shower themes, I will suggest that you give a little consideration to the feelings of potential shower attendees. If you have a lot of MLM-loving friends, by all means get that party rolling! BUT, if you have the slightest feeling that your friends or family might feel weird purchasing a gift for you in front of people they may or may not know, nix the idea immediately!
As always, it’s a personal decision everyone must make for themselves. Just remember that showers are meant to be a fun few hours to celebrate your wedding day with close friends and family! Do whatever works for you to keep it that way!
Happy showering! Cheers!
