a business method and system for executing the method that involves gathering merchandise orders at a show in the home of a hostess . the method compiles the merchandise orders while maintaining a relationship between each individual order and information pertaining to the guest making the order . the guest information maintains an association with the order throughout the method such that each order made at the show may be individually packaged and labeled , obviating the need for the hostess to sort the ordered items upon receiving them from a warehouse . the system stores records of all purchased items and maintains a running inventory of each item , accessible by the consultants so they may warn customers of potentially low inventories . the database also facilitates returns and exchanges of purchased items .