So the consensus here seems to be for a n00by to look for a well-reviewed independent.
Okay, and there seem to be a few good ones, but I don't think I should rule out agencies altogether. For one thing, ALL of the agencies I've inquired have returned my e-mails and only half of the independents have. Also, one madame went so far as to ask what I was interested in, and recommended providers she thought would meet my needs. This one act alone will probably get my business, but probably not at first.
I have also discovered that providers like to be treated like a date. That is, they may SAY it's a business, but seem to respond better with flirty sweetness as opposed to a more frank, businesslike style of, say, making a dentist appointment.
(WOW, I learned something all by myself - at least I haven't found it here in the n00by posts yet.)

So now my thinking is, should I go with a fatter, less expensive provider? Or should I pay a little more and look for someone I think is attractive...  assume both are well-reviewed...
My thinking is a cunt is a cunt is a cunt, but maybe those more experienced (clients and providers both) will have something to say.

thank you

If a cunt is a cunt is a cunt .... then you may want to base on price first, that being the case a well reviewed indie with a website is the way to go over an agency. Agencies are going to give you a look alike in most cases and charge more becuase of their agency fee, not knowing where your from I will only speak for Las Vegas, in Las Vegas there are NO good agencies... hobby safe hobby well hobby all you can be ......

Pretty Maids (Bruce) is an exception in LV. No bait & switch and really nice girls who deliver as advertized.

I'm close enough to the border to be looking at BC instead of Seattle.
That may be part of it, I've heard they have a different protocol up there in Canada, eh?
Also, if I used an agency I don't think I'd be looking for a particular provider.