If you select "power on this virtual machine after creation" it should power on right away and within a few minutes kick off the customization. This way it is more automated and hands off.
I figured out my issue... I needed to update the vm hardware version from 8 to 9 (while also making sure to have the checkbox checked for it to 'check and upgrade vm tools on power on').
I understand this doesn't have anything to do with your original issue but I figured I would mention it in case someone else has the same issue. Also, reading the suggestions above pointed me in the right direction for solving my issue after a week of scratching my head :]