I agree, yes blow dry your hair enough to get it straight but not too dry. I went on a Saturday morning at 8am, they were finished with my hair at 10:15(2 hours) it was 4 braiders on my head.
I would blow dry it out just to save time, and only enough to detangle and remove the curls. However I'd call the shop and ask first. You don't want it too straight. Time depends on how many people are working on your hair. When mine was done I only had one girl whose name is Precious. She worked very hard to finish fast but she had little help and it was very busy so it took 7 hours. My hair is already very long so it took a little longer. I'd suggest getting there early and go on a weekday. I went on a Saturday and it was packed at 7am
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