I bought a Brother CS6000i from Walmart for under $200. I used it exclusively for about three years and then I bought a more expensive machine. I still take the Brother to workshops as it is very light and easy to carry. It also makes a nice backup when my bigger machine goes in for service. She should not be lured by expensive machines. The result is in the maker, not the machine.
I bought a machine that was around $2500 at the time. If I had it to do over, I'd buy a less expensive one. The Juki can be had for about $1000 and it is a workhorse.
I'm always amazed at the work some people turn out with small, inexpensive machines.
Buying a big expensive camera will not turn anyone into an Ansel Adams but I'd bet anything that Ansel Adams could have produced magnificent photos with a Kodak Brownie.
Good luck!