I always tell someone new to quilting to begin small. A pillow made of a large block, a baby quilt or table runner. It helps get you in the swing of things without doing BIG and getting discouraged. (part of the process, sometimes!)
The alsolute best advice is to cut one block first and sew it up before cutting out your whole quilt!! Other than that listen to all the others on here and go for it! HAPPY HOLIDAYS! :D