DREADLOCK SISTERS!!!!

Kira • 15 mo. 👶🏽🎀
Hi!
So I'm wanting to start my pics next week. I have an appointment already but it's just for a repair treatment and trim. I wanted to cut my dead ends off because I figured it would be better for my hair. However, now I'm thinking the dead ends may help with the locking process.
So, what do y'all recommend? Should I trim and wait to lock or just go ahead and lock?
Also, my hair is 3c/4a what starter method do you think would be best?
Thank youuu!