I personally think that choosing a date and paying such money is something optional, but I think we should do it so that everyone will be pleased (e.g. parents, aunties etc).
Me and my WTB went to long shifu there as well, and as what everyone has said here, things are fine and he has explained clearly on what is required and what is optional. He has simplified things a lot and make them very clear - no crap at all - as a guy, I like his style a lot. My WTB was fine back then as well.
However, few days later, my WTB started to feel that the long shi fu has simplified things too much and doesn't sound credible. The date that he has given was not listed as good dates in the Tong shu etc. Then she also commented that the $80 is overpaid etc. Knowing her well, I think this is expected.
I am trying to stick to the original recommendation as suggested by long shi fu. I really hope that my WTB honey will be able to think the same way that I think - I may not be right all the time but if we felt comfortable at the moment when we were getting the advices from Long shi fu, why change our mind just because that some ppl from some forum posted some different opinions on those advices?
So lastly, I would really advise everyone who are going thru the wedding planning, communicate before you start action, as there will be many many different opinions trying to squeeze into your original plan, and it will be always impossible to please everyone.
My humble opinion. All the best!