re: Best way to start an LLC?

In LA:

Option 1: Call lawyer, pick name and they'll check it in the database, have them draft Articles and Operating Agreement based on your needs, pay and done.

Option 2: pick name, check it in sos database, draft your own articles and OA, pay and done.

Depending on how complex you want the entity to be for tax/business purposes, or if its going to be part of a chain of LLC's/Trusts/partnerships/etc. will give you your best answer. For a sole prop./disregarded entity LLC it probably isn't a big deal to do it yourself.