The Ultimate 2018 Holiday Gift Guide: Curated Favorites for Everyone This Season!
Welcome to our definitive 2018 Holiday Gift Guide! As the festive lights twinkle and the scent of gingerbread fills the air, it’s time to embrace the heartwarming spirit of giving. This year, we’ve meticulously compiled a collection of our absolute favorite products—items that have truly impressed us throughout the year and promise to bring genuine joy to your loved ones. Whether you’re seeking the perfect present for a culinary enthusiast, a tech-savvy friend, a new homeowner, or simply looking to treat yourself, this guide is packed with thoughtful and practical recommendations that will make your holiday shopping a breeze and your gifts unforgettable.
The holiday season of 2018 is undeniably here! Beyond the joyous traditions of baking our favorite Christmas cookies, adorning the mantel with fresh fir branches, dressing up the Christmas tree with sparkling ornaments, and swapping out our fall wreaths for festive Christmas-themed decor, it’s also a pivotal moment to dive into our gift lists and start the exciting process of checking off those thoughtful presents. Navigating the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping can often feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This carefully curated collection features products I personally tried, tested, and genuinely fell in love with this year, making them ideal candidates for your gifting needs and ensuring every present is a hit.
So, whether you’re planning to brave the chilly weather and navigate the festive crowds at your local mall, or prefer the comfort and convenience of online shopping from the warmth of your home, these products deserve a prime spot on your consideration list. They are perfect as cherished gifts for your loved ones, colleagues, or as delightful additions to your own personal wish list. Personally, I’ll be embracing modern technology, avoiding crowded stores, and enjoying the seamless experience of shopping from my laptop while lounging on the couch, perhaps even catching up on my favorite Netflix series. Join me in making this holiday shopping season stress-free, efficient, and full of wonderful discoveries!
2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE SEASON
Finding the perfect gift often comes down to practicality, innovation, and a touch of personal flair. Our 2018 Holiday Gift Guide zeroes in on items that not only perform exceptionally but also enhance daily life, simplify routines, and bring genuine happiness. From revolutionary kitchen appliances that transform meal prep to charming personalized keepsakes, each item on this list has earned its place as a true favorite and a top recommendation for holiday giving.
Essential Kitchen & Home Appliances: Revolutionizing Your Routine
The Instant Pot: A Game-Changer for Every Modern Kitchen
The Instant Pot stands, hands down, as my all-time favorite small appliance, ever. If you’re skeptical about its capabilities, a quick search for “Instant Pot recipe” on my blog will reveal countless culinary adventures made possible by this incredible device. This multi-functional pressure cooker has fundamentally transformed the way I approach cooking and meal preparation for my family. It’s more than just a gadget; it’s a time-saving, versatility-packed marvel that simplifies everything from weeknight dinners to elaborate holiday feasts. Imagine a single appliance that functions as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, and food warmer—all in one sleek, counter-friendly design. It drastically cuts down cooking times, allowing you to prepare dishes like tender pot roasts, flavorful stews, perfectly cooked grains, and even homemade yogurt in a fraction of the traditional time. For busy individuals, families, aspiring chefs, or anyone looking to embrace healthier, more efficient cooking methods, the Instant Pot is not just a recommendation; it’s an absolute kitchen necessity that will inspire countless delicious meals. Trust me, you really NEED one in your life!
Le Creuset Dutch Oven: An Heirloom of Culinary Excellence and Style
When it comes to high-quality cast iron cookware, the Le Creuset Dutch Oven reigns supreme as my undeniable favorite. If you’re investing in just one piece of premium cookware that promises a lifetime of culinary joy and exceptional performance, the Dutch oven is the unequivocal choice. Crafted with superior cast iron and coated in vibrant, durable enamel, these iconic pots are engineered for outstanding heat distribution and retention, ensuring your dishes cook evenly and perfectly every time. From slow-simmered stews and hearty braises to artisanal bread baking, deep-frying, and roasting, its versatility knows no bounds, seamlessly transitioning from stovetop to oven to table. But beyond its unparalleled performance, a Le Creuset Dutch oven is a true showstopper in any kitchen. Available in an astonishing array of gorgeous, rich colors, it serves not only as an indispensable cooking tool but also as a stunning piece of kitchen decor. It’s an investment that will be cherished and passed down through generations, making it a truly timeless and treasured gift for any passionate cook, aspiring chef, or homemaker who appreciates both function and beauty.
Espressotoria System: Bringing Cafe-Quality Coffee Effortlessly to Your Home
For coffee connoisseurs and espresso lovers who dream of cafe-quality beverages without leaving their kitchen, the Espressotoria System is, without a doubt, the best at-home espresso machine I’ve ever had the pleasure of trying. Its brilliance lies in its thoughtful design, unwavering commitment to quality, and remarkable ease of use. There are so many reasons why this system stands out from the crowd. Firstly, its remarkably compact footprint means it won’t monopolize precious counter space, making it ideal for any kitchen, big or small. Secondly, it operates quietly, ensuring your morning ritual is a peaceful start to the day, not a noisy disturbance. Thirdly, its user-friendly interface boasts an elegant simplicity, with a minimal number of buttons that make operation intuitive and stress-free. Despite its straightforward design, it consistently produces an absolutely exquisite cup of coffee that rivals the complex flavors and rich aromas found in even the fanciest cafes. Forget long lines, daily expenses, and complicated brewing processes; with the Espressotoria System, gourmet espresso, lungo, and ristretto are always just moments away, transforming your home into your favorite barista’s spot.
Multiflask Beverage System: The Ultimate 7-in-1 Hydration Companion for Active Lifestyles
Innovation meets everyday utility with the Multiflask Beverage System. This ingenious 7-in-1 bottle is designed to be the only hydration solution you’ll ever need, adapting seamlessly to your dynamic lifestyle. It effortlessly transitions between roles: a regular water bottle for daily hydration, a fruit-flavored water bottle with an integrated infuser to elevate your H2O with natural flavors, and a robust shaker bottle perfect for blending protein shakes and creamy smoothies on the go after a workout. But its capabilities don’t stop there. Thanks to an integrated basket for tea leaves, it transforms into a convenient hot tea bottle, and can just as easily keep your hot coffee perfectly warm for hours. Its advanced double-wall thermal insulation makes it an exceptional hot or cold thermal bottle, maintaining beverages at your desired temperature for hours on end, whether it’s scorching summer or freezing winter. And for the cold brew aficionados, it even doubles as a dedicated cold brew maker, allowing you to craft smooth, low-acid coffee overnight right in your fridge. The Multiflask is truly a versatile and indispensable accessory for anyone who values convenience, health, and a perfectly tailored beverage experience throughout their day.
Air Fryer: Guilt-Free Crispy Delights in Minutes for Healthier Eating
For those committed to eating healthier without sacrificing the craveable taste and texture of fried foods, the Air Fryer is a perfect small appliance that delivers delicious, crispy results with significantly less oil than traditional deep-frying methods. It’s a fantastic gift for anyone looking to reduce fat intake while still enjoying their favorite “fried” foods. Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly golden, crunchy fries in half the time it would take in a conventional oven, or preparing succulent chicken wings with a wonderfully crisp skin, all with just a tablespoon or two of oil. The air fryer utilizes rapid hot air circulation technology to cook food, resulting in an irresistibly crispy exterior and tender interior, mimicking the effects of deep frying. Beyond classic fries and wings, it’s incredibly versatile for roasting vegetables, crisping up frozen snacks, reheating leftovers, and even certain baked goods like cookies or mini pizzas. It’s an appliance that brings efficiency, healthier alternatives, and incredible convenience to the forefront of everyday cooking. Search Amazon for the best model that fits your budget and cooking needs; there’s a wide range of options available to suit every household, from compact personal sizes to larger family-sized units.
Thoughtful & Personalized Gifts: Adding a Special Touch That Lasts
Personalized Cutting Board: A Unique Culinary Keepsake with Heart
Elevate a simple kitchen essential into a deeply thoughtful and cherished present with a Personalized Cutting Board. This is an absolutely perfect gift for the dedicated cook, baker, entertainer, or anyone who appreciates bespoke home decor in your family or friend group. Engraved with a family name, a significant date (like an anniversary or housewarming), a beloved handwritten recipe, or a heartfelt quote, a personalized board transforms a functional item into a sentimental keepsake that will be proudly displayed and used for years to come. Beyond its practical use for food preparation, it can also serve as a beautiful serving platter for cheeses and charcuterie, or a decorative piece in the kitchen, adding warmth, character, and a unique story. Each board, often crafted from high-quality, sustainably sourced wood like maple, cherry, or walnut, tells a unique story and becomes a testament to cherished memories. For an incredible selection of customizable kitchen items, including these stunning cutting boards, be sure to check out Etsy. Their talented artisans offer a diverse range of styles, fonts, and personalization options to create a truly one-of-a-kind gift that will be treasured.
ThermoWorks Thermapen: Precision for Culinary Perfection and Food Safety
Accuracy and speed are paramount in the kitchen, especially when dealing with critical food temperatures to ensure both delicious results and food safety. The ThermoWorks Thermapen is, without question, my favorite digital thermometer, and for very good reason. It provides incredibly fast and precise temperature readings (often within 2-3 seconds), making it an indispensable tool for ensuring food safety and achieving culinary perfection every single time. Whether you’re verifying that your succulent Instant Pot Turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature, perfecting the doneness of a prime steak on the grill, ensuring your baked goods are just right, deep-frying with confidence, or even delving into delicate candy making, the Thermapen offers instant confidence and peace of mind. Its robust, splash-proof design, long battery life, and user-friendly interface make it a professional-grade tool accessible and invaluable to home cooks. This gift is ideal for anyone who takes their cooking seriously and values reliability, precision, and safety in their kitchen tools—truly an upgrade for any culinary enthusiast.
Matching Mommy and Daughter Aprons: Cherished Baking Memories and Bonding
There’s nothing quite as heartwarming as creating culinary memories with the little ones, and Matching Mommy and Daughter Aprons are an adorable way to make those baking and cooking sessions even more special and memorable. This cute gift idea isn’t just about protecting clothes from flour and spills; it’s about fostering bonding, inspiring creativity in the kitchen, and establishing cherished traditions that will be passed down through generations. Imagine the smiles and laughter as you both don your coordinated aprons, feeling like a professional chef duo, ready to whip up holiday cookies, a Sunday brunch treat, or a weeknight dinner together. Available in a delightful array of patterns, colors, and themes—from whimsical prints to classic designs—these aprons add an extra layer of fun, cuteness, and professionalism to any cooking or baking adventure. It’s a gift that encourages quality time, playful learning, and makes every moment spent in the kitchen a precious, picture-worthy memory.
Practical Kitchen Upgrades: Gifts That Keep on Giving All Year Round
Sheet Pan Sets: The Underrated Workhorses of Every Efficient Kitchen
Every home cook and baker knows the sheer joy of unboxing brand new, shiny kitchenware, and a high-quality Sheet Pan Set is no exception. Often overlooked or taken for granted, rimmed sheet pans are the unsung heroes of countless recipes, from perfectly roasting vegetables, baking crispy cookies, and preparing entire one-pan meals, to crisping up ingredients and even organizing mise en place. A fresh set replaces tired, warped, stained, or scratched pans, making every cooking task feel more efficient, hygienic, and enjoyable. Look for durable, heavy-gauge aluminum pans that resist warping at high temperatures and provide even heat distribution for consistently excellent results, preventing unevenly cooked food. They typically come in various sizes (half sheet, quarter sheet, jelly roll), making them incredibly versatile for different quantities and oven spaces. This is a practical, much-appreciated gift that will be used almost daily, bringing a touch of professional functionality and fresh energy to any kitchen. It’s a gift that truly keeps on giving, meal after delicious meal.
Copper Measuring Cups: Where Functionality Meets Elegant Kitchen Design
Why settle for mundane plastic or standard stainless steel when you can add a touch of timeless elegance and warmth to the kitchen? Copper Measuring Cups are not only exquisitely beautiful but also incredibly functional, durable, and precise. Forget flimsy plastic cups that crack, stain, lose their markings over time, or generic metal sets that lack character. A set of lustrous copper measuring cups brings a luxurious aesthetic and a delightful tactile pleasure to baking and cooking. Their sturdy construction ensures precision for years to come, and the warm, glowing gleam of copper adds a sophisticated, antique-inspired flair to any kitchen decor, from rustic farmhouse to modern industrial. They’re perfect for displaying proudly on a hook or open shelf, transforming a simple utilitarian item into a decorative statement piece that sparks conversation. This is a delightful gift for anyone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, and wishes to elevate their everyday culinary tools with a touch of enduring beauty.
Kitchen Towels with Quotes: Adding Personality, Humor, and Pizzazz
Inject a dose of humor, personality, and undeniable charm into any kitchen with a set of stylish Kitchen Towels with Quotes. This simple yet incredibly effective idea is a fun, affordable, and easy way to add pizzazz and a personal touch to the heart of the home. Beyond their practical use for drying dishes, wiping up spills, or handling hot pots, these towels serve as miniature pieces of art, offering witty sayings, inspirational messages, clever culinary quips, or even seasonal greetings that are sure to bring a smile to anyone who sees them. They can effortlessly match or complement any kitchen theme, from rustic farmhouse to modern minimalist, and are incredibly versatile as decor. Whether draped over an oven handle, neatly folded on the counter, or used for everyday tasks, these absorbent towels make a fantastic stocking stuffer, a charming small gift for a host, or a thoughtful addition to a gift basket, showing you put personality and care into their interests. They are a subtle yet impactful way to brighten up the kitchen space and express a little flair.
Enhance Their Favorites: Must-Have Instant Pot Accessories
Instant Pot Accessories: Expanding Culinary Horizons for IP Enthusiasts
For the ardent Instant Pot lover in your family or circle of friends, nothing quite sparks joy like a thoughtful selection of Instant Pot accessories. While the Instant Pot itself is a marvel of modern kitchen technology, these purpose-built add-ons unlock a whole new realm of culinary possibilities and convenience, making the beloved appliance even more versatile and indispensable. Imagine their delight with a durable glass lid, perfect for using the slow cooking function or for serving directly from the pot, allowing them to peek at their simmering creations without losing heat. A high-quality silicone egg mold is ideal for crafting perfectly shaped, healthy egg bites (just like those from a popular coffee chain) or even individual mini cheesecakes. Steamer baskets are indispensable for gently steaming vegetables, delicate fish, or even making perfectly hard-boiled eggs with ease. From extra sealing rings (essential for preventing flavor transfer between savory stews and sweet yogurts) to stackable steamer inserts for efficient pot-in-pot cooking, an array of accessories can significantly enhance their Instant Pot experience, encouraging new culinary adventures. These practical and inspiring gifts are guaranteed to make them scream with joy and inspire countless new recipes!
Smart Shopping & More Recommendations to Make Your Dollar Go Further
Maximize Your Savings This Season: Don’t Forget Ebates (Now Rakuten)!
As you embark on your online holiday shopping spree, make sure you’re getting the most out of every purchase and making your budget stretch further. Don’t forget to use Ebates (which has since rebranded and is now known as Rakuten) to get cash back on your online purchases. It’s incredibly easy to use: simply activate the cash back offer through their user-friendly website or convenient browser extension before you shop at your favorite online retailers. With thousands of participating stores, you can earn money back on almost everything you buy. During the bustling holiday season, it’s particularly exciting as cash back percentages often double or even triple, offering even greater savings! It’s like finding extra money in your pocket just for buying the gifts you were already planning to purchase. Score big on savings and make your holiday budget stretch further, allowing you to perhaps buy an extra gift or treat yourself!
Looking for More Inspiration? Explore My Monthly Favorites!
If you’ve enjoyed these selections and are eager for more product recommendations and personal favorites that go beyond the kitchen, I regularly share my latest discoveries and beloved items throughout the year. These monthly roundups delve into a wider array of products, from cutting-edge kitchen gadgets and smart home solutions to lifestyle essentials, beauty finds, and unique gift ideas, all personally tested and enthusiastically endorsed. They provide ongoing inspiration for thoughtful gifts for any occasion!
- Monthly Favorites May 2018
- Monthly Favorites March 2018
- Monthly Favorites January 2018
We sincerely hope this comprehensive 2018 Holiday Gift Guide has provided you with ample inspiration and made your shopping experience a little brighter, more intentional, and significantly less stressful. May your holiday season be filled with warmth, immense joy, delicious food, and the wonderful moments of giving and receiving thoughtful, meaningful gifts that truly light up faces. From our kitchen to yours, Happy Holidays and happy gifting!