I make mine depending on the person it is for. If they have a special interest or love a certain color, I go for that. If they are involved in such things as relay for life, etc. I might go for the ribbons and like that. I make it a little bigger than a regular throw, to be sure it doesn't leave them exposed to the cold room.
I use fleece for the backing to make it extra snuggly.
For a nice touch, I sometimes make an extra block and make a bag for them to carry the quilt in, too. Just a simple one, but it's a nice touch.