I don't make quilts for people unless they have a say in the process. There is way too much money and time involved in it for someone to not like it. I also emphasize the importance to be honest w/ me because the point is for them to enjoy it and no one likes to be disappointed at the end.
I don't think that I would ever make something where the receiver would not be in on the process so that changes can be made when they are smaller/easier than being disappointed w/ the end project.