Thank you for the tips everyone. I am narrowing in on a choice!

I created my shortlist by looking for builders who seemed to do classic styled bikes as townies or transportation bikes, had a few samples in my frame style, and had the features I wanted (lighting and/or hubs). The lighting was more essential than the IGH - locally there are a few shops that are experts at wheel building for this use case and such. So it isn't as key of a build issue - at least my assumption.

I reached out to a small number to discuss the project and pricing. I have a fairly complete wishlist to share which I think helped with visioning.

Now I just have to decide custom frame or stock frame. But custom is feeling like the way to go!

SquirtDad - thanks for the tip. I am over in the East Bay these days, but it makes sense to reach out to Silva too!