The plug thing seems really compelling for expansion. You could just sew a tenth of an acre or something then let it grow and if it looks good, mow it down then take plugs from that same plot for transplanting in the spring. If what they said about the grass competition is accurate then it wouldn't take too long to turn a little meadow into a lot of meadow. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Rewilding can be a pain in the ass. Your state should have a land grant university. They'll have a horticultural extension office at the county level which includes planning agents, native plant nursery connections, and regional best practices. Our local one is like the most knowledgeable horticulturist in the region.