So, I was totally in the same boat as you not too long ago. In fact maybe a few weeks ago. I ended up going to Gene Juarez at the Tacoma Mall. Once you're inside the salon you forget that you're even at the mall (it being at the mall was a little issue for me). I had a specific hair style in mind and on top of that I donated my hair to locks of love so my hair was relatively long. As soon as I walked in they brought me into a changing room with a top to change into so that I didn't get hair on my shirt and itch for the rest of the day. When I came out they had a glass of water on the table for me. Loved the atmosphere of the salon and everyone was really nice. I don't know how much you're willing to spend at the salon, but it cost me around $50 for a wash, cut and style. I'm from California where that is a pretty average cost for me. Ask for Zoe if you decide to go there, she is wonderful! She listened to everything that I wanted and didn't try to make her own hairstyle out of it.