If you have a choice of groomers in your area, I would visit each one and spend time talking with them, explaining how you would like your dog to be groomed, and also try and get a look at some of the other dogs they have groomed. I was actually taught to groom by a groomer who breeds and shows cockers, and wish I was in your area. Unfortunately I am right at the other end of the country!
When I stopped grooming, the person who set up after me worked previously as a driving instructor (!!!) and some of the dogs she turns out makes me feel like crying. Every single one of them comes out shaved, with tails that are left much too long and not in balance with the body. It is really important to make sure that your groomer knows exactly what she is doing and how she is supposed to be doing it, before you let her loose on your dog. There are some really good groomers around, but equally there are some dreadful ones too, so do shop around. Good luck and would love to hear how you get on.
