Hmmmmm I smell freshly brewed coffee and donuts here.  Pls see the newbie board, there is plenty of info there.

Re:Any tips for a newbie

Best TIP you can ever get is,  become a VIP member and read the reviews very close.  Look for what your into and be upfront and honest with the provider you select. Also stay away from bridget and austin...  LOL

Just a few quick tips from a relatively new hobbyist:

1)  Read the reviews and find the provider that fits your tastes and needs.
2)  Look for a pattern of positive feedback from the reviews to narrow your choices.
3)  If one of your choices happens to be a well-known provider, contact her and go through her screening process.
4)  If you are legit and pass the screening process, then once you make that first connection and you approach it in gentlemanly fashion, it should make you more comfortable to seek out and meet other providers.  It should also give you a way to provide a reference for other providers you may want to see who accept references.

It's only one way to get started in the hobby, and I'm sure there are other ways to dive in, but that's how I got started.  Also, you can search the boards for posts by providers to possibly get a quick glimpse at their personality and views.  

Just my $0.02.
BKMan