Console and Aftermarket Shifter
Well Colton I am going to be doing the same thing with a console for my 73 Dart Swinger. I agree with you on the "cheesy looking" idea... but some cars look good with it lol.
My idea to you is that you find out the measurments of a few shifters you like and pick one that is close to fitting the exsiting shifter cut-out. Just to limit the amount of work needed and cutting up of the original console. I would also look at shifters at car cruises and car shows and talk to the owners and find out how much the shifter handle travels.
I wont be doing this mod until later so you are on your own for now!