I understand the importance of excellent hygiene, i.e. brushing teeth upon arrival, freshly bathed. But when a provider states she prefers a clean shaven man, does that mean below the belt line as well. Sometimes I see this stated under etiquette.

She means your face.

most providers appreciate a man who "mows his lawn", but in the context you ask about on a provider's website, she probably means your face

Thanks, no need to scratch her inner thighs I guess.

This may be a reaction of the "manly fashon" seen on TV of guys with more than a 5 o'clock shaddow.  It must scratch like h*ll on tender parts.  Personally, I'm old school.  I want to be as clean & fresh as a civie date...  or more so...  
skb

Uhm....no. She doesnt.

I have a nice soft beard & haven't had any complaints.