How fortunate to have such close friends. I would go ahead and make a quilt that you liked and if they don't move you can keep it and enjoy it or give it to them for another occasion. I also hate to make quilts that people ask for in certain colors that I don't enjoy. I already have 4 requests for family quilts so I doubt if I'll ever have time to make a "just in case" quilt but you are a very good friend to consider doing this.

I made a baby quilt and had enough fabric left to make a second of the same pattern. Now I have one for a baby girl "just in case." It's kind of like the old casserole theory; if you make two and freeze one, you're saved a night of cooking!

What about using a muslin-colored fabric or any lighter beige fabrics?

Yes I have and they usually find a home before they are even off of the frame.

Your thread title reminded me of a joke a friend sent us last April 1. It was a list of books and the authors. So cute.
Here are some: "Meat is Good for You" by Chuck Roast.
"Why I Believe in God" by Justin Case
"How to Make a Go in a Retail Store" by Pam Ida
"German Recipes" by Frank Furter
There were lots more by I can't remember them now.

I always have 1 or 2 lap size quilts on hand, just in case I need them. I also try to have at least 1 baby quilt "in stock", and somehow, they all disappear to a good home. Once a neighbor electrician worked in hour home for over 2 hours, and since he did not find the problem, he refused payment. The next day we went to his home, delivering a baby quilt for his new grand child. They were thrilled. Its always good to have a quilt on hand. A log cabin pattern will fit into just about any home.

I have 2 baby quilts in the closet, just in case