Get exactly what you want from your appointment

We've all had the appointment where you nod along, then get home and realise it isn't quite what you meant. The good news is that it's almost always avoidable. A few minutes of preparation — and being honest at the consultation — makes the difference between "it's grand" and "I love it."

Bring pictures — including the "no" pile

A photo says more than any description. Save two or three images of the cut or colour you love, and if you can, one or two of looks you don't want. Showing us both ends of the scale helps us zero in on exactly what you're after. Just keep in mind that lighting and filters flatter colour, and that your starting hair matters — we'll tell you honestly how close we can get in one visit.

Be honest about your morning routine

The dreamiest style in the world is no good if you'll never recreate it at home. Tell us the truth: do you blow-dry, or air-dry and run? Do you own straighteners, and will you actually use them? A cut and colour that suits your real routine will look better on day five than a high-maintenance look you can't keep up.

The best cut is the one that still looks good when you style it yourself.

Share your hair history — especially for colour

If you're colouring, we need the full story: previous box dyes, henna, old highlights, a home toner from last month. Some of these — henna and metallic dyes in particular — can react with salon lightener, so it genuinely matters. There are no wrong answers here, and nothing you'll be judged for. It just helps us keep your hair safe and get the tone right.

Ask about upkeep and cost up front

Before we start, ask two questions: "How often will I need to come back?" and "What will that cost?" A look you love in the chair can be a chore to maintain — knowing the upkeep in advance lets you choose something that fits your life and your budget. We'd always rather have that chat first than surprise you later.

A few practical bits

• Come with your usual hair. Unless you've been told otherwise, day-old hair is often easier to work with than freshly washed. For most colour, clean-but-not-just-washed is ideal.
• Allow enough time. Colour and treatments take a while — don't book them for a day you're rushing. If you're tight for time, tell us when you book so we can plan.
• Speak up during, not just after. If something's looking shorter or darker than you expected, say so while we can still adjust. We'd much rather you did.

That's really the heart of it: a good consultation is a conversation, not a quiz. Tell us what you want, what you don't, and what your mornings actually look like — and we'll do the rest.