Question:
How long would it be? A weekend? Looks like fun, I might be able to do it.

Answer:
I lived in Chicago for my entire life before moving out here 12 years ago. We still have family and friends there and go several times a year. We'll be going out during the week before Easter, and will probably make a trip later in the fall. An autumn weekend would be super.

Answer:
I'm stoked by everyone's interest!
I sent an email to the folks at Merz Apothecary to see if they have any upcoming events or product releases. After I hear from them, I'll check with Andy and/or Roseanne at Saks. Right now I don't see any scheduled fragrance events online for any of the major stores (they do have foody things lined up). My thought--and please improve on any of my ideas--was to find some friendly, smelly place to congregate on Saturday where we might be treated to something special (samples, some kind of presentation, etc.?), make a reservation for someplace to have lunch and visit en masse, and then visit another fragrance spot afterwards. That would leave Sunday free for each person to pursue those other stores/boutiques not covered on Saturday.
I don't expect anybody to be forthcoming with any money or hard confirmations. When a date is settled on, it would be good to have an approximate head count. Again, if anybody has superior insight on this whole Chicago thing, speak up.
I would really love to see your faces and take oodles of pictures.
(And, yeah, Kumquat, you and Purplebird should hop that train in Lincoln!)

Answer:
I am interested. I will keep an eye out for the date.

Answer:
Super, I would love to go! If I was given enough time, I could wangle any number of dates, so long as it falls on a weekend, so I don't have to miss any classes.
- Rich

Answer:
I just spoke with Andy at Saks, and he's going to check with his manager to see what we might work out. Stay tuned!