what are some ways to get things start when planning to use bondage?

It depends on what you guys are looking for. If you are not into all the "leather and chains", then try nice things like silk ties or anything from the Lelo line for light bondage play. If you are into the leather and chains, then just start with soft beginner toys (like fur lined cuffs). If you are into something more exotic, you can learn to do something like Shibari using the books from "Two Knotty Boys" and one of the beginner ropes sold here (like cotton or cotton/silk blend). There are also really simple ways to incorporate this kind of play like the underbed restraint system, which is fairly easy to use and nonthreatening.