Just wondering what's on offer to bring in newbies.
Most (every?) Vail properties have lesson/lift bundles that are a good deal compared to walk up lift ticket rates. The bundle is generally 3 days of instruction + lift tickets. I think the per day cost for the beginner group lesson + lift ticket may even be less than just buying a lift ticket at some resorts. It was the case at Breck and Beaver Creek a couple years ago.
The bigger barrier to entry is all the other costs and logistics of a typical ski trip. Lodging, transport, parking, walking in ski boots, winter driving, appropriate clothing (and comfort for variable conditions/weather), etc. It's a lot to navigate and it is helpful to have someone guide you through it - either via a ski club or a friend.
I am not sure what the never-ever experience is for someone living in ski country - I only have a feel for what other destination travelers deal with when learning to ski (ie those that board a plane with their S.O./friend to ski for the first time). I suspect that if you live in ski country, you would probably try to learn at a cheaper smaller ski area before going to a Vail property.