“I Can’t Afford to Hang Out With My Friends Anymore”

Dear Julie,

I own my own small business. I make and sell a consumable product. An acquaintance, let’s call her Shannon, frequently purchases my product at local farmers markets. Shannon now sells an anti-aging product through a tiered sales model (i.e., Ponzi scheme.) Shannon has invited me to several of her sales nights (think Tupperware party) and I have always had other obligations. Recently Shannon has asked me to meet with her to give her advice on owning a small business—and, oh, P.S., would I like to buy anti-aging products? 1.) I don’t need or want anti-aging products. 2.) She doesn’t own a small business. She is part of a Ponzi scheme. 3.) I don’t wanna: I don’t want the product, don’t want to support a Ponzi scheme, don’t want to give advice. So, here is my question: Am I obligated, because of girlfriend code, to buy something from her because she has supported my business for years?

Signed,

Perfect Skin, Aging Gracefully