Where have all the providers gone

It has been a few years since I was a hobbiest.  I recently decided to get back into the fun but don't have a reliable reference.  Will be in orange county Sunday night and am looking for a provider who matches posted pics etc... It seems LA and Orange county is a very Independent area (I'm from NYC).  Other than a recent trip to Germany I don't have a deep network of references.  I totally get wanting security.  That said, what does it take to be screened without a reference?

join a verification site and then look for newbie friendly providers.

Try to find a provider who will use business information or other info if you're willing to supply what she needs. Try looking on the OC regional ad board for a provider. Or take a look at the ter top 100 list for OC.