Go and try out everything you can find. Especially network with people who have same bootsize:biggthump
If you want to get the feel of a custom board brand, the only way is to ride that brands boards and ask the owner what he was looking for. So you need to ride with guys who have them, are your weight and you know their style.
After that you can make some sensible decisions and tell a custom builder what you are and what you are looking for.
If money is no objection, just e-mail all custom makers, tell what you are looking for and see their replies. Order the best proposal and ride the heck out of it:ices_ange Then order the next one:biggthump to get that extra...something you need