I know it looks like a lot of work, but it really isn't. I felt the same way when I started looking for a chi last year, and had no intention of getting a long hair chi. But then I met Jasmine, and there was no question in my mind that she was the one for me.
I brush Jasmine every day, but that really is not necessary. I just enjoy brushing her, and she loves it. It is sort of our "bonding" time every evening. I bathe her about every 2 weeks. I don't take her to the groomers at all.
I may be mistaken, but it is my understanding that some of the long hair chis have a "double" coat, or undercoat, and some only a single coat, so that is something to keep in mind when looking. Jasmine is a single coat. She has a lot of hair and it is very thick, but it will not be as full and fluffy as one with a double coat. I am guessing from seeing pics that Ruby is a double coat.
I have found that the long hairs shed less than the smooth coats also.