I am totally with you. I am extremely introverted (although not shy) and I find it taxing and often uncomfortable to be with people I don't know well. But not everyone is the same way. Some people find it energizing to have others around, even strangers. Even quirky strangers like me. And many people *love* the opportunity to show off their tanks with someone else who is actually interested. I do view my house as a refuge where I can relax and have soothing quiet and predictability. At the same time, I do enjoy having people over to my house as long as there aren't too many and it's not for too long. An agreed-to, brief visit is not disruptive or intrusive, even by my hypersensitive standards.
Do try a meeting or two. You might enjoy them. I generally go (although this month I think I'm going to go to the coast instead), although I often come kinda of late and leave early. No one seems to mind. I don't have anything to trade and I don't have a lot to contribute to conversations. My tank is small and low-tech, my corals are few and common, and, well, I'm pretty socially awkward. Again, no one seems to mind. (I'm also intelligent and kind-hearted and creative. I don't think I'm a loser. I just recognize my own quirks.) The meetings are a bit of a stretch for me, but I think it's a good stretch.
There's a forum in the classified section for group buys. azcummins has co-ordinated some with Vivid Aquariums and overall people have been very pleased with their purchases. Read a couple of the threads and you'll get an idea of how they work. (Each vendor does it a little differently.)
Anyway, welcome and good luck. Don't feel like an odd duck. All kinds of people enjoy living with saltwater critters.
ej