I prefer curved shears to straight shears. The only curves I use for little long haired dogs are the ball tipped 6". The point to these are safety because the dog is smaller in comparison to the shears. My other curves are 8" and they don't have a blunt end. I only use these for bigger dogs like Golden Retrievers and Spaniels because the risk of poking them is slim.
I like curves because they give shape to the dog, especially when you're rounding the feet or face. Also they seem to follow the contours of the dog better. Curved shears literally are curved blades.
My preferred clipper of choice is Andis. The AGC is a cheaper and good solution for at home grooming. I like the 2 speed Ultraedge because it's quiet and doesn't scare the dogs.
Edit: I would get a pair of small curves and definitely some thinning shears. Thinners can help out a beginner especially when you mess up! They help blend hair cut from the shears. 46 tooth one sided thinners will do the trick. They are a must!