Bailey,
I'm new to this board also and haven't made very many quilts. I think that hand applique is very time consuming but it's much more beautiful. I'm working on a quilt that has 16 squares of applique and it has been quite a job. But when it's finished I'll be able to admire it and say "I did that"!
Not too long ago I made the conscience decision that I wasn't going to do things the easy way anymore. If I want something to be really nice I need do the work to make it really nice.
Having said that, machine applique can be really nice too. I guess it really comes down to personal opinion.
Good luck with your quilt!