Those fabrics are stunning! Thanks for sharing your "before" pics. I think a Dresden Plate will be absolutely perfect for this selection.
Now for the other queries.....I am a dyed-in-the-wool pre-washer of everything and I also starch. Haven't used the old fashioned starch for ages....bit too much fiddling around (I have Lupus and arthritis...so I tend to take the easy way most of the time). I buy the cheapest generic canned starch available, because I use a lot, it does make for a nice crisp finish.
This is obviously a very special project to you, so care at each step will prevent any "oh dear" (or worse) moments later.
Would love to see this as you progress and the finished quilt should be a knockout! Happy quilting.