hello sarah.......check to see if the wall is flat..( it will help)...
When you set off tiling use a level to keep checking your first row is flat then the same with each proceeding row from that..this will prevent you getting any kicks or shadowing on the cross joining........
Centre the hob/cooker area and the window, and try to get the brick effect to follow in any corners etc...........same as any other tiling really but just watch those rows are kept flat.........
If your,ve got any lighting under the wall units turn them on while your working and when you grout aswell, The small fluorescence bulbs will show the smallest fault in your grouting