Another suggestion might be to take a strength training class (like a bootcamp or something) where you're likely to encounter a lot of women and you can get some instruction. I loved my bootcamp classes in university and it was almost all women of all shapes and sizes.

The guys will not care as long as you have a clue about how to lift and don't hog equipment. If anybody gives you a look or says anything to you, go straight to the management. These days women are very common place in the free weight room so it should not be a problem.