You asked:

- We have 8 ft high ceilings. Would 3/4" planks noticeably bring the ceilings closer in comparison to the more typical 9/16" planks? :) No. The difference is 3/16 of an inch (less than 1/4 inch). The change in percieved ceiling height would be no more than the change that putting a rug on the floor would be. I believe the 9/16 is usually engineered, while 3/4 is more often solid.

- Would 9" wide planks also overwhelm the room if the ceilings are 8 ft high? Not based on just the height of the ceilings. The overall size of the room, and the style of the home, would matter more. As would your personal preference.

- What brands/models would people recommend for blonde-ish oak wood that has some knots here and there, but not entirely rustic, and with a smooth satin finish. Almost everything I see in stores has a wire brushed finish that is a bit rough under foot. (Photos would be appreciated) I can't make any recommendations for you. However, I would not personally select anything wire brushed. Also, if you want 9 inch planks, you definitely should be looking at engineered wood products.

- Has anyone had any experience with the D'Vine Tuscany collection from Bravada? No.

Thank you @kempek01! The ceiling height is all in my head. I would actually rather have 6-7” planks, but all the smooth finish, blonde oak, slight character planks i can find are 9” 🤦‍♀️