Lorraine68

To me one of the key factors in selecting a sewing machine if you're pretty new to the whole thing is to not buy a machine is that too advanced for you. As tempting as those gorgeous, expensive embroidery/quilting/everything-else-you-could-possibly-need-dream-machines are, it's way better to keep it simple initially. If you buy something that's too advanced for your skill-level, you'll get extremely frustrated and confused trying to learn how to use all the bells and whistles that you don't really need, and you might even give up on it!
My advice is to buy a good-quality but fairly straightforward machine--janome sewing machines are good for those who are willing to spend a bit more; for something decent but a little cheaper a Singer might be your best bet--I've used both and feel that for beginners, either is more than adequate, just make sure you get something that is not too complex, but is of a quality good enough that you won't be having technical difficulties that will detract from trying to learn the skill!
Online sewing forums are also a great place to get some feedback on different machines--particularly if you have difficulties in getting to a machine dealer--you can get a lot of advice from people who own different machines that you can use in selecting a machine yourself!!!