Advice for new (old) cross stitcher

[UbercornsGoggles]

I've got cross stitch experience from my teenage years but not done anything as an adult. I guess I'm best described as rusty but competent. I've been helping my niece with her first cross stitch this week on holiday and thinking I'd like to get back into it. I've seen a lovely dragonfly pattern I want to try which is contemporary and has really bright jewel like colours and I want to make a finished product which looks really classy.

So my question is about materials to go for, particularly thread. Which brand is best? Is there a big difference between brands of Aida? Any tips from experienced cross stitchers about how to make something that looks really good (aside from professional stitching and framing when finished).

This is the pattern if that helps www.etsy.com/uk/listing/616288810/mandala-dragonfly-k537-embroidery-cross?ref=shop_home_active_22

For fancy pieces I always used a Linen back fabric - you work over two threads.

In terms of threads I might choose madeiras or a silk thread for this as they have more of a sheen in my view but DMC was always my go to normal thread.

Pretty design though

Thanks @RB68. Are those materials readily available from shops (Hobbycraft easiest for me) or am I best ordering online?