I have a question: I am going on a business trip towards the end of March, and I've contacted a provider there to possibly set an appt. She'd like a reference or two from me (which is perfectly OK). I've never actually had to give one out of town before, so what's the protocol?

let them know who she is and her website..This makes checking her out easy..

Have fun
Kisses Haley

have fun!

is no big deal.
If she has a website and a contact page, fill it out.
If she is just asking for names, give her the names, contact numbers, and websites of a couple of ladies you have seen, after contacting them to make sure they know you are going to use them as a reference. It makes it easier to verify if your references know that they will be getting a call.
Just make sure you have provided all the information she has asked for.

She will be able to contact them and verify you and all will be good.

Good luck on you out of town adventure.

Just my opinion...
B