I did my maple leaf quilt with a white on white. here is a link to photo:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...lt-t85150.html

I did mine with black, which really made it pop. Since you aren't wanting to use black, have you thought about a rich chocolate brown?
If you're wanting a light color, I'm thinking a creamy cappuccino or a soft buttery yellow would be pretty.