It's really not as mystical as some people make it out to be, unless you're in a rush, and it seems like you have the right attitude. The fastest way to get a bag is probably to go to the main store in Paris (fsh). They have them on the shelves almost every week for what I can tell. All you have to do is show up in the am when they open or wait for the shipment in the afternoon. It might take a few days but you will probably get one eventually. Other than that, go to a Hermes and buy a few things and mention to the associate that you ate interested in a birkin. Act like its no big deal. Get the associate to show you leathers. Pick one and get them to submit a leather request for you. It may take 6 months to a year. If you aren't picky about color you can get on the "match list" or wish list and you may get a call about bags that come in randomly or are refused orders. Buying more might get you priority in this process just because the associate likes you and wants to make you happy, but from what I can tell, big spending isn't a must, but you will need to make a show of good faith (buy something at least) just so they know you are worth spending time on
