Please don't assume that she "kept" the trimmings.
It could simply have been an oversight that it was not included with your quilt.

And too, you have mentioned that there was a death in her family.
I think we all know how things aren't the same during times like this.

I've always been asked if I want it back or it's come back with the batting and backing attached. I want to trim the quilt myself and sometimes the excess is substantial. I would ask for it back.

They don't own the leftovers. If you don't receive them with your quilt contact them. Be sure to let them know for the future that you need the edges returned.

I always let people know that I will have to use some of the edge material to test the tension before I start the quilting but try not to use to much of this area. After all that is good fabric and batting.

Leason learned:D
peace

I always request no trimming be done. I want to take care of that myself.

Sounds like this was a mutual lack of communication. She didn't ask for, and you didn't volunteer, any information about trimming the quilt.

Since it is only my second time using a LA, I do understand that it could have been my lack of communication. However, it seems kind of obvious that the usefulness of a long strip is reduced quite a bit by cuting it in half almost (my extra around each side was about 5 to 6 inches--she cut down to about 1 to 2 inches from quilt top edge).

She is going through a very sad and difficult time and I recognize that it is important to be a caring human being at this time so and I won't say anything. Next time, I'll know to discuss it in advance to see what her protocol is and then make a special request if I need to.

I always get the quilt back the way it came off the long arm and I trim myself, i get the left overs to use as I wish.

I occasionally take that extra backing and fold it over and make the binding that way. You can't do that if it is cut off.
I agree with the others ask nicely for it back.

email and ask if she still has it. binding is important and she will understand.

My policy is not to trim unless requested. This is another good question that should always be asked and answered. Try thinking of your meeting with your LA Quilter as any other professional appointment. Write down every question you can possibly think of then write down the answers they give you if they do not have a form. Then there will be less confusion. I just accidentally forgot to give the extra to a client the other day. I contacted her and we will make connections to return it. She was in no particular hurry.

I always get back what is given. I use the excess batting for mug rugs, etc. Use the backing for the same.