"There is no reason not to get started with the Grand Tableau almost from the beginning."
There are many reasons not to read the Gran Tableau as a beginner:
1. You must learn each meaning of individual cards.
2. You must learn combinations of two cards.
3. Then learn 3 card spreads.
4. Then learn 9 card spreads.
5. Then learn the Gran Tableau.
Most folks think that more cards mean better reading, and nothing can be further from the truth. One card can yield a definite answer, and sometimes you need a few more.
Newbies make a big mistake trying to use too many cards at once, get confused and give it up. I have seen this many times.
I think a newbie diving into a GT would be like giving them two driving lessons, then the keys to a Ferrari and a 3 lane highway with the words "off you go" It has a chance of not going well, or putting them off driving...........
I don't think you need to aim for a GT too soon - as you suggested, get the basics right and move up. I find I can get quite a bit out of a 3 / 5 / 9 card layout. For sure, being holistic and looking at what is going on around someone or over a period of say, 3 - 6 months a GT would be good. But I personally find that is akin to me doing a 12 month tarot reading - not something I would need to do often. Yet because it is seen as THE spread to use, I felt pressure that I should use it more than I do.
Just my two pennyworth. And also, one person may find they get what they need from 3 cards or a 9 card spread. Someone else would feel more comfortable using more cards. We are all different, and one size does not fit all.
As for the best tarot deck for a newbie?? I think it is difficult to name a particular deck. I stopped doing that when members asked for a suggestion for a tarot deck. What resonates with me may not with another. I can work with Ciro's Lenormand even though it is quite ornate. Then I realised why. I am an audible person. I say things a lot in my head (yes at times I would love to shut that up...lol) so when I see the card I actually have the name yell out in my head before I focus on the image. This is quickly followed by words or phrases that seem to want to be heart. I realised I don't focus on the image too much in the Lennie world, until after I have organised the titles and come up with a starter for 10. Only after I have done this, I then take on board anything from the image, i.e. directions faced.
Now for a visual person?? Using Ciro's deck as a starter deck could work wonderfully - or it could cause brain ache. For the reasons already cited.
I would just suggest looking online at different decks and seeing which one feels comfortable. One that doesn't tie your brain in knots, or confuse because it doesn't feel right with regards to titling or imagery used.
Ramblings over, signing off
Davina