Why don't you suggest - groan - that he give her a homemade voucher or gift certificate. He can even put down something like " For your new sewing machine. One time use only. Limit $$$. Expiration date xx/xx/xx."
Then either she can go out to the dealers and relax trying out the various machines and checking out the service [lessons, waranty, and future support if needed free to her] and repair available for whateve machine she does get. He can go with her or she can go alone or with friends. She can make it fun and not be rushed.
What a gift to give. I expect the giver would be amply rewarded just fine.
ali