Hi Rosemary
for you, In OZ, the only guy with a PLEK is - http://www.sydneyguitarsetups.com
I have the sneakiest feeling that you will hear the LOUD "Ker-ching" ring of his CashTill for this kind of work.
but the basic philosophy of NIgel is Spot on - play your guitar at the Techs place and let him see how you handle it. Be CLEAR what you want out of the work he will do. Decide on the string gauge and make that you want that suits you. Play the re-worked guitar and be sure you are happy with what he has done before you part with your cash.
cheers
ian
Its curious that the tone of the Mexi (with presumably ceramic bar pickups) sounds better than the Am Stan (with Alnico'S).