My original characters fight with gwyn was easily the most epic thing ive ever experienced in all my time in dark souls. Murakumo with fire resign, and no shield (looking back, idk why i didnt use one. i thought i looked too cool without one i think) It took like 10 tries but it was SO COOL when i did it. Had like 2 hp left when he fell.

Once you get confident, try a no shield run
Or maybe a SL 1 build.

Since you seem to have gone with strength this run... Maybe try some of the dex weapons out?
Perhaps some of the halberds? Curved greatswords?

MAYBE THE DRAGON BONE FIST?
Maybe a badass pickaxe build that makes use of the leo ring (this build rapes EVERYTHING if used well)

Hmmmmm...

EDIT: quinter, once you go strength, you seriously cant go back. Black knight greatsword is one of my favorites.