Haha! I sparked some curiosity huh? :) Well, it certainly isn't exclusive to the area that I live in, but I thought with all the "Direct Sales" rage...why not make it work for Handmade, too?
I'm trying to find other local shops who would be interested in doing Local Handmade Parties; similar premise to direct sales only there are no gimicky things attached (and no junky stuff made in China!). Basically, we'd have a Hostess who provides us with a list of things she and her guests would be interested in and I will coordinate up to 5 shops to be featured at her party. If we have enough shops, I will rotate so everyone has fair exposure.
So, in the end...it would essentially be a Craft Fair at your home.
How's that sound for a "new" idea? :)