research research research research research research, and more research.
I have been on here for nearly a year and I just did my first viv.
gather supplies as you research and it won't put such a huge dent in your wallet as it would if you was to get everything at once.
I saved up everything and wound up only spending like $50 to complete the build but it all it costed me like about $100 or more.
most was bought using gift cards so if you have a bday coming up ask for Lowes and JoshsFrogs (
Josh's Frogs - Largest online herps feeders and reptile supplies store) gift cards lol
this is gonna be your best friend and you can find everything you need here:
http://www.dendroboard.com/forum/search.php
yup the search feature

search for:
GS backgrounds
False bottom
ABG Mix (the truth about ABG mix is the best thread on this)
How to culture Springtails
How to culture Fruit Flies
Search for your local state group on here and get you some frogging buddies who can help you obtain supplies locally or you can purchase frogs, cultures, and supplies off them.
search 'poison dart frogs' on Google and find out which one stands out to you but you need to find out if they are for beginners or not.
there are care sheets on here for a lot of PDFs and you can find care sheets elsewhere.
these little guys are pretty expensive and just the shipping can cost $50 or more.
I'm looking at $120 for the ones I'm thinking about getting and they are some of the cheapest.
be prepared to have spent at least $250 or more by time you're done
good luck and welcome to the community!
good luck and I hope to see a build thread from you soon
and they are right about the water feature. I did a build when I had only been on here for a few months with a water feature and it didn't turn out to well.
best to wait till you get experience.