here is the deal IMHo - and this is why these boards are super! - although in truth, DFTW has pretty much been to the letter perfect in their timely-ness - i always found it seemed like FOREVER until we heard back or got an answer or what not. some people hear back like in 2 seconds, but not us! anyways, if you are in the wee beginning stages, there is ALOT that goes on before anything is for sure, 100% confirmed - even if you BEG to give them tons of money! - but don't let that freak you out!
keep reading and perusing and check out carrie's podcast and passporter books in addition if you haven't already or if i didn't already say that! even when you talk to someone (and it is weird holiday time?) there are still timelines at which things are confirmed, so totally do not let that freak you either! when we talked to our sales person, we got lots of info and had several contacts. then you wait a whole bunch again while it seems like everyone else is doing all kinds of things! but, again, don't worry!
keep looking through planning journals - you will see lots of cool stuff and get lots of ideas, which is good!
again, i really dig our venue and am so excited! i've had similar concerns about venue size and group size, but whitehall is a very safe choice!!
so good luck and welcome!