Everyone seems to have their favorite machine. What dealers are close to you? Go to the various dealers and try out machines and see what feels right for you. Don't let them pressure you into buying something right then and there. Narrow it down to a few models and then check here for reviews. You may have to join the site to read older reviews but it's free.
http://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingMachine/Reviews
Personally I'd look at Janome machines. They're user friendly, less expensive than the European machines, and very reliable.