Do you have any tips on how to get into your local bdsm/kink scene? I’ve been interested in it for a while but I’ve no idea where to start, and am also worried that I’m like ??? not allowed there because I’m beyond a beginner. Sorry, I know this isn’t what you usually post but I’m not sure who to ask or where to look…
Everyone has to start somewhere.
New people are a delight in any scene - online or local, frankly.
My best advice is to look up local munches, especially if you can find any for "mature" or "older" folks. If you don't know anything, going into a space of solidly established kinksters is a good place to start. 40-50+ is a positive sign as a general rule. (Younger led are just as valid, but as a former 20s kinkster I will say the energy level of the older folks is easier to LEARN from.)
You can also search local privately owned kink shops in your area and see if they have or host workshops. These are good places to learn and to meet people who are there to learn with you, and get to meet the teachers/leaders in your area.
No group will be perfect, and you might not even find your fit on the first try, but unless you're in a town with a population of 300~ you should be able to find more than one pocket to check out.
I'd also recommend looking into the more niche groups too. It might be outside of your comfort level, but the age play folks where they get into the diapers and such are going to be some of the most welcoming and non-judgemental folks you will ever find. They'll know the safest spaces and the best resources, honestly, and if you're having trouble finding a place that vibes with you through the munches and shops, they'll be a solid resource.
You don't know what you don't know until you know it, and no one worth their leather in the kink scene should hold that against you.