I have had providers ask me about hobbyist that they are on the fence about , if they know that I know them . Whether or not it was a factor in seeing them or not , I don't know , or particularly want to . Just giving an opinion that was asked for .
Say you had a friend "John" who just joined ECCIE and he has little or no reviews (aka newbie status)
Would a lady accept "John" as a customer if you as a personal friend can tell her that "John" is a trustworthy friend.
It's kind of a referral situation but I have introduced friends of mine to some lovely ladies to let them know that I know the guy and he is not LE and is ok for her to see.
It's a matter of trust but you can seek a win-win situation.
I would definately accept a vouch from another hobbyist especialy if his friend is a ...its a good way our new gentlemen can get in the door of our naughty community...
I've accepted a *friend of a friend* date many years ago; however, that ended in an EPIC fail. The *friend* pulled a couple of NCNSs, and when he apologized and actually met me...he shorted me quite a bit...never again!