This will be my first wood working project. I'm going to be making a queen bed frame with headboard. I want to meet a bit in the middle between cost, look, functionality and durability. Something easy to work with. Not necessarily the cheapest possible option but also not going for anything super exotic or overly expensive. Perhaps a cheaper domestic hardwood. What would be a good option? Southern Yellow Pine and Douglas Fir seem to be more on the cost effective side, what's like a step up from that? Some may say Poplar but that just seems like such and ugly grain, from what I've read it more of a utility wood anyways. Any suggestions that won't break my bank but will look decent with a very dark brown, ash or ebonized stain.