Ok, in that case, what would you say is the easiest lower limit LED count I can start at to get an idea of brightness that wouldn't restrict me on expansion should I need more?
Is this something you'd be willing to work on me with? I could e-transfer you some money and give you the full scope of my project if you'd be willing to provide guidance throughout this process privately (through email or whatever you deem appropriate). I have no problem doing all the heavy lifting, just need someone with experience to sort of "partner" with me. Unless of course you know someone in the GTA, in which case I could speak with them too 
Let me know.