Been contemplating contacting a provider for some time. However, I'm concerned about lack of references. Any advice?

try the newbie board LOADS of info there

Read the self help center.

Do a search on this board for "references" or "screening". It has been discussed 943,212,1616 times.

Look at agencies in your area - many do not screen, or only screen lightly. Same goes for
backpage independent providers. Be sure to find a girl with reviews - do your OWN screening -  
unless you are in the mood to Take One For The Team.

Report back.

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Preferred411 is a verification site that allows providers to indicate if they are newbie friendly, which is good for you.  I disagree with previous advice about Backpage, it is not a good place look for providers in many areas of the country.  However, you can look anywhere, but do your research.  Look at reviews, search the phone number, the pictures, and ask questions of anyone.

You may have to give more personal info than you want to if you are not on a verification site.

Swi

Look for newbie friendly providers