Greetings from South MS

Hello, all! I have been intrigued by bees and beekeeping, but more recently have gained a serious interest in taking it up myself. I have only been seriously studying it for about a week, and just yesterday got the go-ahead from my wife to give it a shot! If I understand correctly, now is not the best time (if not a poor time) to begin. Is this correct? If so, I would like to ask if some local beekeepers whom I know would show me around their apiaries and begin working on building equipment. I intend (at least at first) for this to be a hobby, so building the equipment myself would be part of the experience. Thank you for having me, and I look forward to learning from all of you!