Good choices! Coaches tend to recommend those openings for improving players. The basic idea is that Open games is a smoother route to learn tactis etc.
Another good piece of advice is to remeber that chess should be fun. Play whatever you find interesting. I think it is a well established fact tha almost anything is playable below master level.
which opening would you suggest is the best for both sides as a newcomer to the game? I like the Italian Game and the Ruy Lopez. Any thoughts for improvement? thanks in advance.