I have owned many different sets of snow/ice tires. Bridgestone, Dunlop, Hankook, Michelin...

The best BY FAR have been the Bridgestone Blizzaks. They are absolutely amazing on packed snow and/or ice. I have had several different sets of Blizzaks actually, "SUV", "regular", and "performance winter". Buy the type that fits your weather, vehicle, and driving style. But they have all been good.

For $1500 she should be able to get winter tires AND rims.