Welcome aboard T-Ray! You found the place with the answers for all your growing questions!!! 
You can absolutely reassure her, the charcoal filters do a great job of eliminating the smell. I’m on week 10 of my first indoor grow, (I was outdoors for years) as long as I keep the door shut to the lung room, there’s no smell at all. Even with the door open it’s mild. My wife is ultra sensitive to smells and she is quite pleased.
To elaborate on how well the charcoal filters work, I have my tent exhaust ducted to our attic, which has gable vents at both ends of the house. No smell at all outside. Come to think of it. I was in the attic a week or so ago and there was no smell in the attic.
I bought a second fan and filter, just in case, they’re still in the box. Speaking of, for long term, the AC Infinity refillable filter seems to be an economical option.
When you get ready to design your set up, hit these guys up. Regardless of how well you plan, expect to adapt to whatever the plants need. It’s much easier to start with a solid plan, than to make adjustments after the plants are growing.
Everybody has a preference on what medium to grow in. You’ll have to determine which best fits you. Read and ask all the questions you want, these guys will fill you up with knowledge. In fact the two who’ve replied are great resources.
I’ve only used an AC infinity tent, but I’ve had hands on a smaller Gorilla tent. I think they are both great products.
The more you plan and ask questions the less likely you are to spend money unnecessarily. (Like having a filter and fan sitting on the shelf. 
Doesn’t hurt to have a spare. )
Viviosun from what I’ve seen is on the low end of quality, and as @Jaysittinback mentioned, their lights are not that great. I don’t think you’ll find to many folks here recommending viviosun for to much. I have a pump from them, it was cracked when I received it. I repaired it and made it work, but dang, it was brand new.
AC Infinity has a great, well earned reputation in the community for tents, fans, filters, controllers and accessories. And their price points are good too.
HLG lighting is another company who has a great reputation and fantastic lights!
Anyway, doing it right the first time will save you money and headache. Let the gurus here show you the way. 
i retired out of the private sector and became self employed. I also have family members who are LEO with one being a K9 Handler 
(Dang I’m old)
