There is no prep to do with the chalk paint (and you can mix any colour you like yourself using the chalk paint range) but I wouldn't underestimate the time and elbow grease involved with waxing the chalk paint. I use a bain marie and melt the soft wax to help speed up application, it is satisfying work, but not a 2 minute job.
I know Zinsser say you can paint BIN on almost any surface (apart from wax) with out sanding, but I am not a fan of just priming lacquered pine with BIN. It really does need cleaning first (we use citrus based degreaser) and for belt and braces, sand wet with a 180 grade wet n dry abrasive, to add the key.
As an idea of what I am trying to convey about not just slapping non chalk paint on surfaces without prep - Owatrol's ESP is a superb wipe on primer, but it also requires cleaning, with itself, first. It is a less arduous option to sanding to provide a key, but as I say, clean the surface and then wipe it on.
As with all jobs around the home, you have to factor in the cost of material and time before you can arrive at what is the best way ahead.
I know that sanding is the biggest turn off for most home decorators (it is for many professionals too, sadly) but look into the Mirka Abranet Starter kit. It is a basic but very effective dust extraction sander, and plugs into your Henry or similar vac. Sanding becomes a pleasure, really :) On conventional paints, using say 320 grade abranet between top coats, you will be amazed at the speed and ease of use, and you will see a big difference in the final finish. It is a robust sanding block and will serve you well for many years.
A decent piece of furniture of the size you describe would cost a LOT of money new and painted, so you are on to a winner doing it yourself.
Aubusson blue, I like your style, can't beat a bit of colour