I combine hand and machine stitching...I have the feeling that the person who said that to you also sold high-markup frames and quilting machines and got a commission. She cannot rely on you to be buying shiney new stuff and filling her pockets, and wants to sway you.
Do whatever makes you happy. I am the first to admit my hand stitching is better than my machine quilting. I do not have space to sprawl and work on anything large. Does that mean I wouldn't LOVE a longarm setup and the space tp use it? Of course not!!!