Replying to Beginner needs

Hey Everyone! So this winter I decided I am going to learn how to ski. I live in Massachusetts. Last time I went skiing I believe was around 8 years old. Now I am 31. So this weekend I'm planning on making it down to RI to pick up a buddy of mine to go buy some equipment. There is a lot of talk around the inter webs of what to buy and no to buy and this and that.

What Im looking for is just some general direction of what to buy. My budget is around $700 max. I would prefer to keep it below that. Im 6'3" and weigh 195lbs. I would prefer some skis that I can grow into a little bit. I don't want beginner skis that I will grow out of by the end of the season. I'm a pretty quick learner and Ive also booked a couple lessons just to kind of get an understanding of the basics.

In regards to boots, Ive heard from friends oh your just a beginner you don't need to take it so seriously when getting boots.

What are some brands that would be good, prices I should be aiming for and any other general ideas in regards to buying my first equipment

Thanks.