I had a slight spin on this problem earlier in my hobbying career. I had wanted to see a very highly-rated provided, and she wouldn't accept my references. (and I admit that they weren't the best references). So I simply asked her if she recommended any providers that she trusted as references, who didn't need references themselves. She gave me a name and number, I went and saw her, then I called the original provider back and was good to go.
So my recommendation is that you find a provider that you want to see, and if she requires references, simply ask her if she can point you in the direction of a few providers that she trusts. Once you get the first few references under your belt, it's smooth sailing.
I am brand new to this hobby... as in, i have never done this before. I have read a lot of the Newbie faqs on this board and they all seem very helpful and educating but my primary concern is my lack of references. It seems that any reputable providers out there require references and being new to this, I have none. I realize that its done for everyones safety so by no means am I against it, but how do I go about attaining a provider with out any references... so that I can get some references?
Not knowing what city you're in, here in Chitown there are a few agencies that will take all of your info and check them it out themselves. As you stated most indy's won't. And god forbid, stay away from CL knowing full well that someone off of there will most likely see you. Don't be tempted. There are also agencies, ie. RS2K, Preferred411, etc. that will for a fee, take your info, verify and store it, and verify you for the providers. These agencies are geographic in nature so not knowing your location they may or may not work in your area. Good Luck as we all had to start just like yourself.
It's our catch-22. You could use a service like RS2000. If not then your only other option might be to give out work info so the lady can verify you that way. If you go that route, I'd personally only do it for a lady who is not only well-reviewed but also for one who gives out public references (ie a lady who will either give you a TER White List reference or maybe a Date-Check.com reference). That way, it's easier for future ladies to find the reference.
Many ladies prefer to screen through those services and will see you as long as you pass the service's screening.
RS2K is primarily Chicago/Midwest based
http://www.roomservice2000.com
Date-Check and P411 are used more on a national level
http://www.date-check.com
http://www.preferred411.com
Bella
I had a slight spin on this problem earlier in my hobbying career. I had wanted to see a very highly-rated provided, and she wouldn't accept my references. (and I admit that they weren't the best references). So I simply asked her if she recommended any providers that she trusted as references, who didn't need references themselves. She gave me a name and number, I went and saw her, then I called the original provider back and was good to go.
So my recommendation is that you find a provider that you want to see, and if she requires references, simply ask her if she can point you in the direction of a few providers that she trusts. Once you get the first few references under your belt, it's smooth sailing.