Hi to both of you.
I had a dog growing up but was young when we got her so didn't really remember all the prep that went into it, so when I got my Cocker Spaniel puppy Dexter 4 months ago, I wasn't sure what to expect.
The main thing I would advise is to get everything you can before you get your new bundle of fluff as if they are anything like Dex, you won't get much time to go shopping for a while!
Make sure you decide and place things like beds and food/water bowls as it can confuse their learning if you re-position them later on.
If you are getting a puppy, buy some teething toys now as when Dex started teething he didn't like the new ones I got him and only used the old ones. This may not be the case with you guys, he may just be picky!!
There are a thousand and one things you need to do, know and have when you bring a new dog into your home but the final thing I will suggest is buying a book about the breed you are getting as every breed is different.
Dexter is 6 months old now and we are still learning new things about each other everyday, it's hard work and i've had sleepless nights but I wouldn't change him for the world.
Good luck and I hope you and your dog enjoy each other as much as Dex and I do.