Good for you Jennifer, most of us here would recommend baby steps are the way to go in gaining confidence. (Not the way I went but that's another story, lol).
The importance, as Marsha has already said, is getting your look right first, that means make up and clothing etc, and then you really shouldn't have any issues at all. One other thing, clothes don't make the lady, presentation and how you project yourself carry a lot of weight and is something you just learn as you get out more, and observe other women. Take their lead.
It sounds like you are doing fine though, enjoy it and keep us posted.
Nikki
PS Thinking of Marsha and Penny's comments regardging bikers............As a biker/rock chick myself, I have to say that those places aren't an issue............for me. However, there are differences between British, German and US bikers so I can't comment as I only know those I have been around, i.e. europeans, so I wouldn't condone going near a place where they hang out unless you know you can do so safely.
Every woman is beautiful, some show it with their faces, others show it with their hearts.