How to find common/uncommon Pokemon cards for my Mankey Master Set?

I have recently jumped into collecting and I don't have tons of money so I picked a Pokemon that I like but is not super popular. I figured that this would save my wallet but I didn't consider that finding the cards would be so difficult.

I am trying to make searching for these cards fun and exciting. I have ordered some cards online, and I'm sick of paying for shipping plus the act of entering what card I want in the search bar and hitting ship is not a very fun way of collecting.

Recently I've been going to card shows but it seems like everyone has slabs or full arts. I'm beginning to think if these vendors even have my cards that they wouldn't bother bringing them to the show.

Anyone in a similar position and find a solution to make finding and collecting more feasible?