Where to start?

[Dave Rifkin]

Since I have decided to hang onto my '69 Corvette I really want to start to get it looking and running how I want. I would like to get some American Racing Torque Thrusts (I know everyone has them but, I just like how they look), I want to detail the engine compartment and undercarriage and, most of all, I want to do something with the engine.
I can't decide whether or not I should rebuild the original motor or buy a nice crate motor.
I have never done anything seriously mechanical like rebuilding a motor so I am hesitant to make the numbers matching motor my first attempt but, I do think I'd prefer to have the original in the car.
What is the cost for a rebuild as opposed to a crate motor. I know that's a rather vague question but, what I would like to see in the motor would be something a little more stout than the stock L46 with a bit of a lumpy cam; maybe something in the 400 HP range.

Thoughts and opinions are welcome as well as any reputable shops that could rebuild my motor should I decide to go that route.

Thanks