I took a hard look at the bdsm scene and ran the other direction.

Anyways, I'm not sure why someone would say it's unwise to try and convert a vanilla person. Do you honestly think he/she dreams about the missionary position? BDSM is one of the most popular fetishes around. Just put yourself out there and meet some nice dudes. I went to a dungeon not intending on seeing some penises, but it happened. Be prepared. And yeah, it's not that personal to "play" in front of a bunch of dudes in a warehouse, but you could meet someone and then strike up a normal relationship and do your bdsm stuff elsewhere. Good luck!!