As you say, have your lessons first and then custom fit. Worth every penny. When i got my set i was there for a good 2-3hrs hitting a wide range of clubs, ended up with Taylormade r7's that are 1/4" shorter and 2 degree flat, customer grips and regular shafts. They've done me for a good few years, but i think it's time for a change (i bought them as per your situation, i had been playing about 6 months and wanted a better set of irons, but having played a few years now i want a more responsive set). I cant stand Ping clubs, they are great but i just cant look down on them without thinking they are buckets!
Best clubs about at the moment for me are either Mizuno MP-59 and Titleist AP1's.
Same can be said for fitting of all clubs though, i've had my wedges, putter, driver and 3 wood all fitted. All took a goodly time to fit, but i have been very happy with them since.
Played the front 9 of our local course on the weekend (didnt have time for the full round), wish i had finished it though, Was only +4 at the turn with 23 points!