Consider brewing a batch of it now (may want to go small-batch; you could even make two small batches of two recipes you're interested in). You will soon know if it's the right brew for the occasion, if you've got the technique for it down pat, etc. Even at an 8-week turnaround, you'll be in early March by the time most beer is drinkable, which gives you two more attempts to get it right (May, July). Time flies...