I sewed clothing for many many years, and then switched to quilting. I have never had a machine that had more than a couple features on it. I have to admit that over time I have accummulated 3 machines. My favorite machine is a 1950's model that goes forward and reverses. It sews the best, it is easy to work, it is easy to keep clean, and to maintain. I do almost all of my piecing on that old machine. When I take it to the retreats, it is my machine they are looking at, not the super fancy ones that people paid thousands of dollars for. No one can believe that 55+ year old machine sews better than theirs, but it does, and it is not bothered by anything, it just sews through it. My other favorite machine is the one I use for free motion quilting. It is the bare basics, and I really mean the bare basics. It is a little more pernikity than I'd like but as long as I keep that bobbin area clean as a whistle, she sews like a dream.
Yes, there are times when I wish I had the feature needle up, needle down, but I don't really need it. That is the only feature I would like if I could have it. However, if the needle is up and I want it down, I take my right hand and turn it down, and visa versa.
The joy of quilting for me is the process. I hope that she doesn't give up something she enjoys because someone has convinced her that the tools she needs are extravigant.
She is lucky to have you to encourage her.