Well not really a newbie just to this forums. I have always loved GB but now I am getting into COSPLAY stuff so coming here for help and inspiration.
Hi Justin I am also here in LA and looking to joing LAGB Org in the future once I start my productions of gear.
Welcome aboard, Justin! 
There are a good few people based in and around the Los Angeles area, so I’m sure there shouldn’t be too much difficulty in finding a group to team up with. You should be able to find all the info you’ll need for assembling your gear.