No problem, glad I can help.
I don't know much about reactors so I can't help much there... But for carbon, I'd just get a filter sock and put some in there. I'd hold off on the carbon unless you are medicating or something, but you might need it for reactors. I have no clue D:
For the size, I'd use a 55g. You could go smaller, but it's best not to take it easy it size. The bigger it is, the more overall water volume, and the more space you have. (Right now I'm looking at larger tanks in the low 100, and I'd use my leftover 55 as my sump).
As for a skimmer, I hear octopus is a good brand. I've been looking for one recently. I'd keep looking, because I don't know a ton because I don't have experience with skimmers yet, but everybody I've seem thats had one seems to like them.
Oh, and Happy Easter! (If you celebrate. If not, no offense intended)