The Take Home Hair Coloring Kit

I decided yesterday that I needed a change. And the most feasible change was to color my hair, as my hair is short and I prefer it not to be any shorter. Unfortunatly a hair color is way over my budget, so I thought I could save us a few penny's and and bought a box that promised to color my hair a beautiful dark, Auburn brown. The model's hair on the picture looked beautiful and I figured that my hair would turn out the same way. So, I came home and during nap time applied the color. After 25 long minutes I rinsed my hair, put in the conditioner and then blew my hair dry. The shocker was that my hair had come out a dark, purple red color, with brown high lights. Aghhhh! So, then I had the task of deciding whether or not to text my hubby to give him the heads up that his brunette was know a purple/red brunette, but mostly purple/red. Or, should I just let him come home from work and go through the shock factors of the matter. I decided it was best to give him the heads up so that he wouldn't have a heart attack when he returned. We have had a good laugh about it, and he has been very understanding. Thanks babe!
I have decided to give the color 1 week. Hopefully the purple/red will wash out and lighten up and the brown will come through some more, if not, then I hang my hat on the shelf and will plunk down the money to have my hair professionally colored next time.
Do you use the take home hair coloring kits? If so, have you found a brand or color that you love? Please let me know!