How do you go about finding/hiring a babysitter?

We were talking about just every now and then if we want to go out for dinner and a movie or something.

Where do I even begin to look? I don't just want some random teenager watching my kids, I want someone with experience, and references......

Re: How do you go about finding/hiring a babysitter?

I'd begin by asking your neighbors who they use for babysitting or if they have any family members who babysit.

Also, moms of kids who might be in activities/classes with your DC's.