When I started out, it was all connections.
My first 3-4 accounts were with companies I'd worked for.

Then, I started hitting the wholesalers. People that I'd dealt with, while at other companies, were quite receptive.
Salesmen will move from comapany to company, and will call you up, offering accounts.

There are other dealers that don't care at all, just shop around.
Also, don't expect the lowest prices at first. But, as your volume goes up, the prices will go down.

Hope that helps...