So I have been practicing the game for a couple months now, I grew up with it and love it, and recorded my first couple 120 star speedruns (just timed it casually for myself). I used a couple of tricks but nothing crazy yet. What time should I be shooting for as a beginner in the 120 star category? My best time so far is 3 hr 25 minutes...

Its great that you're interested in running the game dude, for a beginner it's fine but keep looking forward to improve your times, and set your own goals.