i always ask, "if i ever getting around to making you a quilt what colors/theme do you think you'd like?"
when i finished my daughter's wedding quilt my oldest son asked if he was getting one next...i said of course. i had been collecting patterns and fabrics for months for his, knew exactly what i planned to do...he blew me right out of the water...when he said, "i would like a star quilt" my response...really? i thought you would want wizards/dragons...nope, i want stars...i never try to second guess anymore. i have given quilts that i did not ask ahead of time and have only had one person in 34 years say, "it's nice but i sure wish it was..." don't take it personal, she is trying to avoid hurting you, not liking what you did. i would rather they offer the info than spend the time making and giving to have it not well received.
and someone else will find the 'granny color' one exactly what they love!