LEADING LADIES CHICAGO: THE FINE PRINT

Because even a High-Thread-Count Rebel needs a few ground rules.

We believe in 'High-Thread-Count Grit,' which means we hate hidden fees and performative 'luxury' fluff. Here is what's covered.

  • The Sanctuary

    3 nights of single-occupancy living at The Gwen. No roommates, no compromises, and a door you can close whenever you need high-thread-count silence.

  • Master Account Peace

    We’ve deleted the role of "Accountant." I handle every check and every tip. Your only job is to exist and enjoy—your wallet stays in your suitcase.

  • The Hosted Pour

    Two (2) premium cocktails or glasses of wine are included at every hosted group meal. We host the first two rounds; the rest is at your leisure.

  • The Immersions

    All private guides for the architecture walk, the Art Institute, and the Pilsen murals, plus our private mixology lab and guest speaker at Vitology.

  • Rockstar Logistics

    Dedicated Mercedes Sprinter group transfers and the Golden Egg collection of dapper residency essentials ($250+ value).

  • The Head Goose

    24/7 hosted expertise. You aren't just getting a trip; you're getting my vetting, my “Goose Standards,” and a concierge-on-call to ensure the vibe remains unfettered.

THE “TREAT YOURSELF” EXTRAS (NOT INCLUDED)

While we aim for a frictionless experience, certain 'off-menu' requests fall outside the residency scope.

  • Beverage Overages: Third rounds or specialized bottle service (like that bottle of 1942).

  • "Off-Menu" Upgrades: Premium culinary requests, supplemental orders, or specialized dietary upgrades (e.g., caviar or Wagyu).

  • Room Incidentals: Charges to the room beyond your $100 Marriott STARS credit.

  • Private Transit: Any Ubers or taxis taken outside our coordinated Sprinter schedule.

 

THE GAGGLE FAQ

  • Because I almost fell into the trap of building a "stuffy" weekend that looked like every other performative, white-tablecloth brunch in the Loop. I realized the real heart of Chicago isn't in a $2,500 rooftop minimum—it’s in the Italian Beef stands, the Pilsen murals, and the "L" rides. We keep the 5-star sanctuary, but we trade the performance for grit and soul.

  • It’s the radical idea that you shouldn’t have to do math on your vacation. In traditional travel, you’re constantly reaching for your wallet or doing "Venmo math" with eight other women. We’ve deleted that role. I handle every check and every tip. Your only job is to exist and enjoy.

  • The dress code is "Show up as you are." You’ll see me in size 16 sweatpants and Target sneakers as often as a luxury brand that says 'I’m not pretending.' Bring comfortable shoes for the Loop walk and something that makes you feel like a goddess for the finale at Girl & The Goat—whether that's your favorite pair of jeans, or that dress in the back of the closet you never get a chance to wear.

  • While FTG Travel was founded as an answer to the lack of dedicated child-free travel agencies, this residency is for all women. Whether you are childfree by choice, life phase, or circumstance, or a mother who is desperate to be 100-percent off-duty, you belong here. The only rule is: No "mom talk." We are here to celebrate you, not your dependents.

THE BEYOND (NECESSARY STUFF)

1. Payment & Cancellation Policy

  • The Hook: A $1,000.00 non-refundable deposit claims your sanctuary.

  • The Finish Line: Your final balance of $2,195.00 is due by April 1, 2026.

  • The Hard Line: After April 1, all payments are 100% non-refundable and non-transferable.

  • Travel Insurance: We strongly suggest it. Life happens, and we want you protected.

  • Flexible Payments: In keeping with our Approachable Luxury ethos, flexible funding is available. You may choose to use Afterpay at checkout to distribute your investment over time while securing your spot immediately.

2. Post-Trip Audit & Billing

Within 72 hours of checkout, Follow the Goose Travel will conduct a master folio audit. Any overages (extra drinks, premium food upgrades, or room incidentals beyond your $100 credit) will be itemized and invoiced via Square. By registering, you authorize FTG to charge the card on file for these overages.

3. Alcohol & Conduct

We love a good spirit (the liquid kind and the artistic kind), but please consume responsibly.

  • The Inclusion Standard: FTG is a safe space. We are proudly Queer-owned and Body-Positive. While this is an event for women, FTG recognizes and celebrates ALL women—this is non-negotiable. If a guest has an issue with this, they are simply not part of the Gaggle.

  • The "No-Fly Zone": We have a strict policy against tantrums and exclusionary behavior. Any behavior that makes another guest or staff member feel less than celebrated is grounds for immediate removal from the residency without a refund.

4. The Formalities (Waivers)

Every guest will receive a formal Participation Agreement and Liability Waiver via email after their deposit is paid. A signed waiver is required for attendance. While we vet every cobblestone and transfer, you acknowledge that urban exploration involves inherent risks. Listen to your body and participate at your own comfort level.

Unapologetic. Unpretentious. Unforgettable.
Questions? Chat with the Head Goose at caitlin.sumner@fora.travel