First and foremost, do your leg work and research. Do not take the advice of social media as the bible, as far too often, reviews are faked either by advertisers or friends of the business. If you wish to use social media as a reference source a good rule of thumb is talk to people on the phone and actually meet with them (Do not text). If a review uses a lot of superlatives without any back up photos, they have either been professional made (Fiverr) or friends of the business. Second, a brick and mortar business over online, so that you don't get duped (again, happens far too often money is sent to an online business electronically never to be recouped). If a cottage business (in house) meet at the place of residency to ensure legitimacy of business. This will not only save you a lot of last moment grief, but instill confidence about the vendor.