i noticed pretty much every reviewed, legit provider asks for references. my goal getting into the hobby is group stuff. how do you book an appointment if you are new and don't have any references for the provider?

Quite a few ladies offer an employment verification option.

There are also screening/verification services, if you're so inclined, which might make it easier.    

Preferred411 is very popular.  

as well.Look on a provider's website and/or ads she might offer alternate options for screening.
As Debra mentioned there is P411 a verification site you can become a member of.Once you are a member you can search in your city for newbie friendly providers on P411.
Good luck to you.

services are accepted at different levels depending on where you are in the US. RS2000 is more popular in the mid-west while the other two are more widely accepted. P411 is considered the gold star.

Especially if you're not comfortable with giving out employment verification information directly to a provider. A lot of ladies who are newbie friendly will accept this verification, but be prepared that some may still want some information in the interest of doing their own screening for their comfort too.

I'll just add that P411 also has a "newbie friendly" search filter that can be pretty useful.  

PS:  Treat those newbie friendly providers with love, care, and respect!  They really help keep the hobby open.

PPS:  Hmm... Treat ALL providers with love, care, and respect!

This part of the forum is google searchable!

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These make it so much easier for us to schedule newbies. It is worth the minimal cost and will get you credibility...

We all need to be safe.