Need help with grooming

[Margeaux]

I have a 15 month old goldendoodle and I cannot seem to get him a decent haircut! We have had him groomed 5 times now and hate it each time. He always winds up looking like a poodle or they only trim (and once shaved!) his face! I don't feel like anyone knows how to give a "doodle" cut. His hair is fairly straight, with a bit of a wave. He has a pretty flat coat. We brush him frequently but he does tend to mat on his paws and on the backs of his legs when it gets long. I love his long coat and hate when they cut it too short. I have specified no less than 2 inches in length and twice (different groomers) they cut it down to barely 1/2 inch. Do groomers have a different way of measuring? Anyway, I am thinking of grooming him myself but really don't have any idea of how to do it or what I will need. Anyone have any advice for a very novice groomer? I really appreciate any pointers, I am completely lost on this subject. Thanks in advance!

[Nancie & Gracie Doodle]

Hi Frances, How are you and Frankie doing? I hope we have another romp in Laguna so we can get together again. I would love to see a photo of Frankie with her new haircut. It does get easier as you go. Gracie is really good now when I have to get the clippers and scissors out and give her the "big" grooming. Keep up the good work with Frankie Girl!!