Advice from gun owners?

I apologize if this is the wrong community to post in, if so let me know and I'll take it down. (If that's the case any advice on where to post?)

I'm moving into my own house, I don't go many places without my husband because I don't feel safe. I'm tiny petite the perfect size to fit in a trunk. While I will be moving into a safe area, I want to feel protected at home while I'm alone.

I work in a city with higher crime rates.. so any time I travel alone would be nice to have protection.

I grew up with bbs and airsoft. A while ago my husband surprised me with a date to the range where we got to shoot various things from a pistol to an AR to a barret. The range was great with educating me and I felt very comfortable. They prioritize safety and responsibility.

They do new shooter courses for a few days a month. They teach you the fundamentals, laws, and then you receive hands on coaching.

The other courses I'd like to take are Carry permit(I'm from TN so it's a step more than required but being safe is incredibly important to me so I think it's probably a good idea)

They also have home defense training where they walk you thru set up scenarios with home intruders and help you work thru it.

All of those I plan to do with my husband.

And lastly, they have a women's self defense class, no weapons just how to protect yourself hand to hand combat and techniques to keep you safe.

Each of those courses are $100 bucks

They have memberships starting at 48 per month. That includes a free person in a shared lane, 0r an extra $ 15 to add as a dou membership.

I'm just curious about general or specific advice. Anything really.. but also what kind of guns you'd recommend I try out if available.

I'd prefer smaller so it's easier to conceal on my small frame.. while trying to minimize kickback? Idk if that's even a thing.. but the one pistol I shot last time was bulky and had a lot of kick. Im certain the trainers will give me quality advice.. but I also want to hear from experienced every day people.

I'm 26, short petite woman.

Any tips for women specifically regarding any of it?

I saved a list of 10 holsters for women, that seem highly rated. Is there anything that worked best for you?

What about storage and safes? Any advice with those?

Also I think I'm more interested in an actual gun, but anyone have any experience with the Byrna non lethal gun? Has it protected you? Is it worth it? Because the cost is about equal to a regular gun. I just want to be as educated as possible.

Thank y'all