Bleaching your hair works if you want to go for the color red that's in the rainbow. If you want a more natural red, then I wouldn't suggest bleaching

Plus dyes take a lot longer in lighter hair. And you're supposed to wait between treatments so if you're in a hurry bleach is counter productive

Also. You girls tend to take really good care of your hair. If your hair is well conditioned and moisturized, it won't soak in dyes very well. Shampoo without conditioner and blow dry first maybe. Dry it out a bit so it'll be more ready to soak up some color :D

*Spends way too much time playing with hair*