The "shotgun" approach of mailing to every agency is a waste of time and money, and can be a discouraging process. Since agents make their decisions based on "type" and experience, the actor needs to know which agency would be the right fit for that actor.

I offer consultations for actors starting in the business and for the experienced actor ready to take his/her career to the next level. Working with the actor, I help him/her select a photographer, choose the right headshot, build a professional resume and cover letter and create a list of agencies for submission.  I help actors attain their career goals by creating a campaign from start to follow-up.

"Meeting Sandra Merrill was one of the most fortunate things that happened to me since I came to L.A. I used her consulting services and she guided me step by step in the process of getting started in the business. Submitting off the list of agents she recommended, I received calls from three agents. She is the person I trust in asking for advice and when I have to make an important decision. Thanks to Sandra I now have a great agent."
- V. Benitez

"I have been in the business for over 12 years and was "stuck" when a friend who had consulted with Sandra recommended her. I had done a mailing to agents earlier but hadn't heard back from any of them. Sandra worked with me in getting new headshots, selecting a headshot and gave me a list of agents she felt would be interested in my type. I am now signed with the Danny Hoff agency."
- D. Sainte-Marie

I engaged Sandra as a consultant.  During our initial meeting, she helped me develop a business attack that included drafting a resume and cover letters to agents, and helping me prepare for my photo shoot.  Headshots in this day and age are crucial and you cannot spend enough time preparing for your shoot.  Sandra assisted me in developing the looks and characters that showed my strength as an actor. Recently, I signed with both a commercial and theatrical agent.  I am confident that I am on a path to success with my new career.
- Joseph Allen Wade

"After many years of many auditions and new pictures and constant meetings in frustration at my agents office, I probably booked three commercials in all the four supportive years I had been with them. I have great agents representing me who appreciated my diligence and finally recommended Sandra Merrill to consult with me. I booked a consultation and was so energized and revived, I felt like "Now I get it." I then took her commercial workshop and had a bunch of FUN! I'm now able to separate my theatrical training and focus my talents when auditioning for commercials with a new kind of style. Two commercial bookings in the three months since meeting you Sandra and I'm so inspired I have now begun a "Hosting Career" and totally give the credit to your insight and your instinct.....See you soon for a brush - up!!!
- Lisa Long

Sandra's guidance, accessibility and encouragement have been my mainstay in the commercial acting process.   In my first consultation with Sandra, she helped me create an effective resume and LACasting profile as well as selecting headshots, which led to numerous auditions.  In my second consultation, she guided me in targeting commercial agencies and crafting a persuasive cover letter.  I am now signed with a great agent, going on an average of five auditions a week, and booked my first national spot!
- Caitlin Durham

Thank you Sandra  - your step-by-step guidance has been invaluable !   We have been able to implement my daughter's desire to start modeling and acting, into action steps and a reality.   You have provided everything we needed to get started from your "insider/being in the business" perspective - from contacts, classes, "to-do" list---  there is no doubt that you have saved us a lot of time, money, mistakes, and most importantly, directed us to the right people.  We will continue to work with you as her career unfolds.
- Judy Aotaki

Sandra's  consulting is focused and clear, and it achieves results.  She guided me through choosing a photographer, the selection of photos,  submitting them to agencies, and the interview process. I found representation with a great agency, thanks in huge part to Sandra's recommendation.  The bottom line is that she is a fantastic teacher and consultant.  I have recommended her to all my actor friends who are looking for guidance, and I'll continue to  do so.  Wahoo, Sandra!
- MB Baker