About 15-30 minute before you are going to start, place your stand mixer bowl and whisk attachment in the fridge.
Once chilled, pour in the heavy cream and beat on high speed (start out a little slower so it doesn't splatter cream every where) for about 3-4 minutes, until you have medium peaks. Scrape down the sides,
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat for another minute, until you have stiff peaks. Keep a close eye on the cream to make sure not to over mix.
Notes
See notes in post for more detailed description of what medium/stiff peaks looks like.