hair salon dilemna...

I want a simple 1/2 up 1/2 down style for my e-party. Not a wedding 1/2 and 1/2 just pulled back a little with some light curls.
Would you
a) go to a salon where the stylist came recommended but costs $75 for a trial and the day of.
or
b) go to a salon where the salon in general came recommended and charges $55 for a trial and day of.

I don't want to spend either amount on my hair for an e-party, but I also want to be happy w/how I look. What would you do?