Struggling to find Game Design Services that match our style

Hey everyone,

We are developing a niche game (stylised graphics + narrative focus) and are exploring external Game Design Services to help with level design and pacing. The problem is: most providers weve spoken to seem to favour generic mechanics or big-budget AAA style, which doesnt quite fit our aesthetic or audience.

Questions I have:

How did you vet game-design service providers to ensure they understood your style and audience?
What questions or portfolio items should you ask before committing?
If someone did mismatch design services with their game, how did you correct course without blowing budget?
Any advice for indie devs trying to find the right-fit game-design partner appreciated!