We are relatively new to this hobby too but might be able to help with a few things. We bought my youngest a SW tank for his birthday last spring - he's always wanted one but we were on a budget. We went with a 90 gallon after researching fish. Going much smaller seriously limited what he could put in it. We went with basic lights (upgraded already for his xmas present), a good protein skimmer and a refugium sump system. We bought mostly uncultured rock that looked like "show" pieces but was only $2.99 a pound from a well rated internet seller. Even with shipping, it was well worth it. We just had to be very patient while the tank cycled since we didn't start with much live rock (bought a little from lfs). My hubby and 2 sons built the stand from pine and my son stained it black. We researched requirements for strength by looking at plans on the internet and making visits to lfs. Cost was about $200 but you might be able to do better if you have a good lumber yard. Definitely beats the $800 and up the lfs charges for much poorer quality. Both my sons (18 and 22) now have tanks on limited budgets. It can be done but patience is a must.