Just FYI that you CAN self-refer (refer yourself for new application)

9/19 I sent myself referral from AMEX Plat to apply for AMEX Gold (20K signup bonus)
9/20 applied & approved online
9/21 received 10K referral bonus in my AMEX Plat (i was shocked to see it so quickly)
9/26 received new card via Canada Post courier

now I just spend $500 to get 20K bonus (and hopefully a surprise 15K extra)

Of course, I'd be happy to refer you as well if you have no AMEX yet