Shecky’s

From Demi Lovato to Miley Cyrus, it seems like everyone in Hollywood lately is going blonde! If you are considering making the blonde plunge but don’t know where to start, we’ve turned to the most talented stylists at the hottest salons to help us map out the ultimate blonding guide. Don’t necessarily want to be platinum? No worries! Whether it’s a golden brown-blonde or a more champagne wheat shade, we’re making finding that gorgeous hue easier than ever.

Step One: Research

Step one on your blonde checklist? Research of course! Channel your inner Nancy Drew and investigate any desired salon before you embark on that blonding journey. “Do your homework by reading online reviews before going blonde to find a salon with the best blonde reputation and an experienced professional with a passion for blondes,” says Rick Wellman, celebrity colorist to stars such as Brooke Shields and Lindsay Lohan at the Patrick Melville Salon.

After selecting a salon, formulating an image of your chosen look is equally important. For Deanna Beavers at Salon Benjamin in Los Angeles, using forms of online media such as Facebook and beauty blogs can help you strategize your hair goals as these mediums provide a clear image that stylists can see and visualize. “This day and age, most people have their work on a blog, Facebook or some type of social media outlet and it is easier for you to trust someone when you’ve seen their portfolio. Also, make sure you’ve looked at inspiration pictures and you both have a clear understanding of what you want the result to be.”

Image credit: fashionsitescatalog.com

-Courtney Leiva of The Doll House

Courtney Leiva first dived into the beauty world at the age of 6 when she give her dog lipstick makeovers and bleached more Barbie’s hair than she can count. Now with a bachelor’s degree in Communications, Courtney eats, sleeps and breathes beauty journalism whenever possible.

Courtney has contributed to online magazines such as Feather Magazine and The Beauty Bean. She also serves as the active beauty editor at Love Twenty Magazine. More recently, Courtney has journeyed into the world of beauty blogging with The Doll House. Love Twitter? Courtney does too! Follow her on Twitter @CourtneyLeiva.