noob just beginning questions

[SaltyDog143]

If memory serves me correct...and some times it doesnt, was suggested in some reading that it isnt necessary to have skimmer until after the tank cycles and your rock is all upnd properly seeded, or however you want to refer to it

the reason I ask about the order to buy is because I cant exactly go buy my rock and sand before i get the filters, lights, etc I need all this other stuff in place first, it will be a slow process for us, going to start with the basics and work our way up, our hope it to have a fully function beginners reef tank by spring.

I just need to figure out things like how big the pumps need to be, how big the skimmer needs to be, what lights we need, etc

thanks again
Randy