NYGIRL, if you dig into this forum you will come across the game plan. To sum it up, one spends a chunk of money on scarves, jewelry, small leather goods, dishes, whatever -- maybe even an Evelyn, Halzan or something other than asking for a Kelly or birkin. Then, if the stars shine upon you (meaning you have established a relationship with a SA). and you mention your HG is the Kelly, the door may swing open to you. Some prefer not to play the game and pay premium via the reseller route.
It hasn't always been this way. Back in 2008 I walked into the boutique and there was the orange Kelly (see avatar) sitting on the shelf. I didn't know much about the brand but the Kelly caught my eye from across the room; I was smitten. The days of, seeing a Kelly or birkin on a shelf are gone.
If you haven't given up in disgust, drop in the boutique -- better at a less busy timel, get to know a SA and spend time (thus less busy time) asking about the history of Hermes or the leathers. Heck there is so much to learn, or.ask them how to tie a scarf.
If you are disgusted down to your toes, then it is what it is . Maybe you buy a pre-owned purse or maybe you say forget the hand stitching, the craftsmanship and the history, the ability to probably pass that treasure onto your kids one day. Hope you feel better and are less discouraged.
