Backyard Beekeeping

I am seriously considering getting a beehive set up in my backyard. Right now I am gathering information but I'll need to order my bees soon if I'm going to get started this spring. I am considering what type of hive to get. I am a small framed woman who will be maintaining the bees on my own. I am concerned about not being able to lift them. I may have to stick to shallow supers. We'll see. So much to learn.