The Ultimate 2019 Favorite Things Gift Guide: Our Top Picks and Must-Haves
Welcome to my much-anticipated annual favorite things gift guide! Each year, I meticulously curate a collection of items that have truly captured my heart and become indispensable parts of my daily life. This isn’t just a list of products; it’s a heartfelt sharing of discoveries that have brought joy, efficiency, and comfort into my home and routine over the past year. From innovative kitchen solutions to stylish wardrobe staples and tech gadgets that simplify life, these are the items I genuinely love and wholeheartedly recommend. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present for a loved one or simply looking to treat yourself, I hope this guide sparks inspiration and helps you find something truly special. For even more curated recommendations, be sure to explore last year’s guide as well.
I’m thrilled to be back with my annual **favorite things gift guide**! Below, you’ll discover a comprehensive collection of my most-loved items from the past year. These are the products that have truly stood out, proving their worth through consistent use and undeniable quality. Think of this as your go-to resource for thoughtful and practical gift ideas, personally vetted and enthusiastically endorsed. For even more inspiration, you can find a wider range of my past favorites here.
This year’s guide covers a diverse and exciting range of categories, ensuring there’s something for everyone on your list. We’re diving into everything from essential clothing items and beautiful ceramics to game-changing kitchen appliances, practical houseware, and incredibly helpful tools. My aim was to strike a balance, including both budget-friendly finds that deliver exceptional value and some larger investment pieces that are worth every penny, ensuring all gifting needs are met.
Kitchen & Home Essentials: Sustainable Solutions and Everyday Luxuries
Stasher Bags – This past year, I made a conscious effort to reduce single-use plastics in my kitchen, and investing in more Stasher Bags has been a game-changer. I’ve nearly eliminated all Ziploc bag usage, which feels incredibly good! These reusable silicone bags are not only environmentally friendly but also remarkably versatile. They’re perfect for meal prep, storing leftovers, marinating food, and even for organizing small items when traveling. Cleaning them is surprisingly easy (just follow their instructions!), and their durability means they’ll last for years. My go-to sizes are the stand-up version, which is fantastic for soups and sauces, and the 1/2-gallon size for larger storage needs. The sandwich size is also incredibly useful for smaller items like cheese blocks, avocado halves, or citrus wedges, making daily life a little greener and a lot more organized. They truly make a thoughtful and practical gift for anyone looking to embrace more sustainable living.
East Fork Pottery – As a lover of all things handmade, I was drawn to East Fork Pottery and finally invested in four dinner sets this past year. I can honestly say they have transformed my dining experience. These pieces aren’t just functional; they are truly works of art. You’ll notice them frequently featured in my recent photographs because their timeless beauty and versatile design elevate any dish. The craftsmanship is exceptional, making each piece feel substantial and unique. The everyday bowl, in particular, has become my absolute favorite size; it’s perfectly proportioned for everything from vibrant salads and comforting soups to delicious pasta dishes and even breakfast cereals. Beyond their dinnerware, East Fork also makes beautiful mugs – a ceramic weakness of mine! Gifting a piece of East Fork Pottery is like giving a heirloom; it’s a testament to quality, artistry, and enduring style that will be cherished for years to come.
HP Envy 5055 with Instant Ink – Including a printer in a “favorite things” list might seem unconventional, but the HP Envy 5055, especially when paired with its Instant Ink service, has quickly become one of the most surprisingly valuable and affordable investments I made this year. The printer itself is incredibly straightforward, reliable, and user-friendly, handling everyday printing tasks with ease. However, the true revelation is the HP Instant Ink program. It is nothing short of life-changing for anyone who dreads buying expensive printer cartridges. We use the free printing plan, paying only for additional pages beyond the monthly allotment, which is incredibly cost-effective for our needs. This service monitors your ink levels and automatically sends new cartridges before you run out, ensuring you’re never caught without ink at a critical moment. Seriously, if the hassle and expense of traditional printer cartridges have been a pain point for you, you absolutely need to look into this. It’s a practical gift that solves a common household frustration and saves money in the long run.
Foil Press Produce Kitchen Poster – My sister gifted me this seasonal produce poster a few years ago, and it continues to be one of my favorite kitchen accents. What I love most about it is its perfect blend of practicality, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. It’s not just a beautiful piece of art that brightens up my kitchen wall; it’s also a wonderfully useful guide for eating seasonally. This poster helps me remember which fruits and vegetables are at their peak throughout the year, encouraging me to cook with fresh, local ingredients. It comes in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose one that perfectly complements your kitchen decor. It’s a fantastic gift for home cooks, food enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates both beauty and utility in their home.
Sodastream Fizz – Over the summer, Sodastream sent me one of their Fizz machines, and I am genuinely shocked by how much I’ve come to love this appliance. As a huge sparkling water fan, I’ve always been bothered by the waste involved in buying countless bottles or cans from the store. This ingenious gadget provides the perfect solution, allowing me to make delicious soda water at the drop of a hat, right in my own kitchen. It’s incredibly easy to use, and the ability to customize the fizziness level is a bonus. The cartridge refill process is also very straightforward and surprisingly affordable, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to store-bought options. This is an ideal gift for fellow sparkling water enthusiasts, eco-conscious individuals, or anyone looking to add a touch of refreshment to their daily routine.
Fashion & Style Staples: Comfort Meets Chic
Zella Leggings – If there’s one item of clothing I practically live in all year long, especially during the colder winter months, it’s these Zella leggings. They consistently rank as a top favorite for a reason. Their high-waisted design offers exceptional comfort and support, while the perfect amount of compression provides a flattering silhouette without feeling restrictive. Unlike some leggings that can feel overly thick or flimsy, these strike the ideal balance. What truly sets them apart is their incredible durability; my pairs have held up beautifully for years, maintaining their shape and color through countless washes and wears. If you’re looking for comfortable, high-quality leggings that will stand the test of time, just check out the overwhelming positive reviews online – they speak for themselves!
Lululemon Belt Bag – This was a rather spontaneous purchase for a friend’s bachelorette party last year, and to my complete surprise, it has become one of my most cherished and frequently used items of 2019. I am just as shocked as you might be! I find myself reaching for it nearly every single day, particularly during the spring and summer months. It’s incredibly practical for a multitude of activities: walking the dog, enjoying outdoor adventures, browsing the farmer’s market, or simply running errands when you need to keep your essentials close and your hands free. The design is exceptionally well-thought-out, featuring smart compartments and a comfortable fit. And dare I say, it’s far more attractive and stylish than many other belt bags on the market. It’s a fantastic gift for anyone who values convenience and style in their active lifestyle.
Madewell High Rise Jeans – These jeans are so exceptional, they even earned a spot in last year’s favorite things gift guide – a true testament to their enduring appeal! My love for these Madewell High Rise Jeans remains unwavering. They strike the perfect balance between insane comfort and incredibly flattering fit, making them a true wardrobe essential. They hug in all the right places without ever feeling restrictive, and their versatility allows them to be dressed up or down for any occasion. Beyond their comfort and style, their durability has truly impressed me; they’ve held up extremely well through consistent wear and washing, proving their worth far beyond their price tag. If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish, and long-lasting pair of jeans, these are an absolute must-have and a gift that will be appreciated for seasons to come.
Tech & Personal Care: Enhancing Life & Well-being
Dyson v8 – Investing in a Dyson cordless vacuum last Thanksgiving was one of the best household decisions we’ve made, and I honestly can’t imagine living without this incredible machine now. We use it almost daily for everything from quick clean-ups of small spills to more extensive tasks, and it has drastically reduced our reliance on our larger, upright vacuum. Its powerful suction is impressive, effortlessly tackling messes that would typically require a heavier machine. Yet, it remains remarkably lightweight and incredibly easy to maneuver, effortlessly gliding under furniture and into tight corners. If you’ve been contemplating a cordless vacuum, the Dyson v8 offers unbeatable value, especially at its price point. While newer models might boast slightly longer battery life, I have never once regretted our purchase. It’s important to note, however, that this specific model doesn’t perform as effectively on very high-pile rugs or carpets, so keep that in mind if that’s a primary concern for your home. Nevertheless, for everyday cleaning on most surfaces, it’s a dream machine.
Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones – I gifted these Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones to Connor for his birthday last year, and they have proven to be an absolute home run – he genuinely loves them! After extensive research into various headphone options, I settled on these, and their performance has far exceeded expectations. They are insanely comfortable, making them ideal for long listening sessions, whether for travel, work, or simply enjoying music. The sound quality is nothing short of incredible, delivering rich, clear audio that truly immerses you. Moreover, their noise-canceling capabilities are top-tier, effectively blocking out ambient distractions and creating a serene listening environment. Much to my dismay, their quality is noticeably superior to my own Beats headphones! These are an excellent gift for music lovers, frequent travelers, or anyone who values peace and pristine audio.
Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer – Like many others, I got “suckered” into buying the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer after reading countless glowing online reviews and receiving a strong recommendation from my own hairdresser – and I’m so glad I did! This tool has genuinely simplified my hair routine. It works incredibly well, combining the power of a dryer with the styling capabilities of a brush, making it perfect for those of us who either hate styling our hair or simply don’t know how. It effortlessly dries, detangles, and smooths hair, all while adding volume and shine, creating a salon-quality blowout at home in significantly less time. It’s a fantastic time-saver and a game-changer for anyone looking to achieve sleek, styled hair with minimal effort. This makes a thoughtful and practical gift for anyone struggling with their hair routine.
Thoughtful Gifts & Personal Growth
Framebridge Gift Certificate – Over the years, we’ve entrusted several of our cherished art pieces to Framebridge, and each framed item has been nothing short of perfect. What makes Framebridge truly exceptional is the remarkable ease of their entire process, from design selection to the final delivery. Their online platform makes it simple to visualize your art in various frame styles, and the quality of their craftsmanship is consistently outstanding. I particularly appreciate that the frames arrive with all the necessary wiring and hardware already attached, making hanging a breeze right out of the box. It’s such a useful and practical gift, especially for new homeowners, art enthusiasts, or anyone looking to beautifully display photographs, prints, or even children’s artwork. A Framebridge gift certificate offers the joy of personalization and the lasting beauty of professionally framed memories.
Becoming – Michelle Obama’s memoir, “Becoming,” stands out as one of my absolute favorite books I’ve had the pleasure of reading this past year. It was a remarkably fast and engaging read, captivating me from the very first page to the last. Obama’s writing is incredibly well-crafted, offering a candid, insightful, and deeply personal account of her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House. Her story is one of resilience, grace, and profound humanity, filled with powerful reflections on identity, family, career, and public service. It’s a book that inspires, challenges, and resonates long after you’ve turned the final page. I wholeheartedly recommend “Becoming” to anyone seeking an inspiring narrative, a deeper understanding of a remarkable woman, or simply a beautifully written story that stays with you. It’s a gift of wisdom and encouragement.
Reflecting on Our Favorites
And there you have it – my carefully curated list of favorite things from 2019! It’s always a delight to share these beloved items with you, knowing they’ve brought so much value and joy into my own life. I hope this guide has provided you with ample inspiration, whether you’re shopping for the upcoming holidays, a special occasion, or simply looking to discover new products that can enhance your everyday experiences. Each item on this list has been personally tested and enthusiastically endorsed, reflecting genuine appreciation for quality, utility, and thoughtful design.
Your feedback and discoveries are always welcome, so feel free to share your own favorite things that have made an impact on you this past year. Happy gifting, and here’s to finding more wonderful things in the year to come!
For even more gift ideas and a trip down memory lane, be sure to explore my favorite things gift guides from previous years: 2016, 2017, and 2018. You might just find a timeless gem!