When you get invited to a party at someone’s home, it may not be the great event you think it is. In fact, you may be asked to bring your wallet. Just about every manjor manufacturer in the country is starting to do “at-home” parties that will influence purchases. These “shopping parties” are huge, with about 265 companies currently putting them on. Sales from these parties are up to $30 billion a year, so they’re obviously working. Just be careful because the prices are full retail and drinking alcohol – which is usually included – can alter your judgment.