I have a rather quick pre shave routine that works for me, ymmv I guess L:
If I'm using my safety razor (a Merkur open comb) , I just rub a puck of Kent Shaving soap on my face and then use my brush to build a lather, exactly as you'd use a shaving stick.
When I'm using a straight razor, I wash my face with hot water, then work the shaving cream lather (taylor of old bond street sandalwood at the moment) with the brush. and then drop a few drops of Trumper's Skinfood into the lather, then mix it some more, then really use the brush to work it in. And that's how I prep for a shave... Its not very elaborate, but, like I said, works for me.