The other day I went out on a drapery call with a designer. The customer seemed to really value the designer's input, and would frequently ask her what she thought about the different items they were picking. They were working along smoothly, until it came to picking between two different pieces of hardware. The client asked a couple times which one the designer liked best, and the designer kept deferring back to the client. They finally settled on one, but I couldn't help thinking that it could have gone a little smoother.
Very often when we are with a customer we are unwilling to give a definitive opinion, for fear of choosing something for them they won't like. Unfortunately, what we don't consider, is that the customer has hired us exactly for that reason. They were unable to come up with a design or a decision on their own and are looking to us - the experts - to guide them. We know what works best and what design will look better and it's our job to help steer the client that way. Now I'm not suggesting we strong arm the customer into a box pleat valance because it's easy to sew. What I am suggesting is that when you're asked for your opinion; Give it. When asked if you like the fancy finial more than the simpler one say, "Yes." Not, "Well it's really up to you, what do you think?"
The customer has hired us as an expert. So, show you really are one, and give your opinion when asked.