Uncle Neds is good for exotic species.
www.unclenedsfishfactory.com
I will tell you , you will spend alot of money on it, if you want it to be what you describe
Don't buy major priced fish until it cycles.
Anything smaller than a 55 can turn in a a tragedy real fast you have to know what you are doing. I have had ich and other nasties flip it in a day!!!
I have a South American tank with cory's, Apisto's and Tetras. Lots of color and all but the Apisto's can be had at any local shop.