Here's a lengthy discussion on MTBR's Women's Lounge on shoes/pedals.
I'd add that there are any number of good platform pedals on the market. There are also any number of threads on MTBR about pedals. You can drive yourself crazy with it. One less expensive pedal that comes up a lot with favorable reviews is the Forte from Performance.
Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate your friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is.
--Mary Anne Radmacher