My Favorite Things: 12 Gifts I Own and Love

I’ve already started thinking about what to get friends and family this holiday season. I often end up giving people things I already own and love because I think they’ll enjoy them just as much as I do. From beauty products and wardrobe staples to fitness essentials and everyday luxuries, these are some of the things I use and wholeheartedly recommend. Whether you’re shopping for someone on your holiday list or looking for inspiration for your own wishlist, I hope you find something you love, too!

My Favorite Things

1. Eberjey Pajamas

I love giving people little luxuries they might not splurge on themselves, like expensive pajamas. Eberjey pajamas are incredibly soft, wash well, and make me feel cozy and put together. Josh got me the Gisele Tencel Modal Long Set for our anniversary, and his parents got me the Frida Tencel Modal Shortie Set for my birthday. The sets are cozy enough for winter but breathable enough to wear year-round. (Pro Tip: You can get them monogrammed, and the light blue or white would be especially pretty for a bride-to-be!)

2. Dr. Dennis Gross LED Face Mask

I have sensitive skin and a very simple (and inexpensive) skincare routine, so I decided to splurge on a Dr. Dennis Gross LED mask last year when I was experiencing major breakouts. I like that it has three settings: red light to support collagen production, blue light to help treat acne, and a combination of both. It’s definitely a splurge, but it’s become a relaxing part of my evening routine. (Pro Tip: It may be eligible for FSA or HSA reimbursement, depending on your plan.)

3. GGStudio Subscription

I’ve written a few posts about how much I love GGStudio, Gabby George’s fitness app. You may know her from the viral Bridal Arms Challenge, but she also offers a wide array of other programs and classes on her app. My current favorite is the progressive overload strength program, Build & Balance. I’ve been following the program for three months and feel stronger than ever.

4. L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

The L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is a classic bag that will never go out of style. It’s sturdy, practical, and affordable. These bags are practically indestructible, and I’ve had some of mine for more than a decade! (Pro Tip: You can personalize them with a name, initials, or a phrase.)

5. Clinique Almost Lipstick

Clinique Almost Lipstick is a fan favorite for a reason. It’s hydrating, sheer, and enhances your natural lip color. It’s a great option for someone who prefers a more natural makeup look. I got a free sample of Black Honey and liked it so much that I bought Pink Honey. I use Black Honey in the fall and winter and Pink Honey in the spring and summer.

6. Nespresso Machine

I love coffee. Josh upgraded my Keurig to a Nespresso machine for our first Hanukkah together, and it has vastly improved my morning (and afternoon) routine. We got one for my mom for Hanukkah last year, and she can attest to the fact that it makes a great gift. The new Vertuo Pop+ comes in so many colors. I love the Pacific Blue!

7. Aura Digital Frame

One of my best friends gave me an Aura Digital Frame, and it’s one of my favorite things in our apartment. I love displaying photos of family and friends, and now I don’t have to constantly print new pictures. We have one in our foyer, and it’s so welcoming to see it right when I get home. We love ours so much that we got one for my dad for his birthday, and I put another one on our wedding registry so we can have one in two rooms. This would be such a good gift for newlyweds who can’t choose which wedding photos to frame! (Pro Tip: If you get one for your parents or grandparents, you can set up the app and send photos directly to their frame. It’s a great way to share photos of their kids or grandkids.)

8. Old Navy PowerSoft Workout Set

I’ve tried workout clothes at a range of price points, and Old Navy’s PowerSoft collection is a great affordable option. The fabric is soft and comfortable, and the pieces wash well. I used to wear leggings and a race T-shirt, but I bought a few matching sets, and they make me feel so put together. (Pro Tip: The leggings come in petite sizes!)

9. Therabody Depuffing Wand

The Therabody Depuffing Wand is a fun addition to my morning routine, and it really does make my face look less puffy. I also like using the heat setting at night before finishing my skincare routine. (Pro Tip: I also find it soothing when I have a headache.)

10. Quince Rollneck Sweater

I love classic sweaters that I can wear year after year, and a rollneck is one of my favorite timeless styles. The 100% organic cotton Quince Rollneck Sweater is soft, substantial, and washes well. I actually prefer it to my J.Crew rollneck sweaters, and it’s half the price.

11. Kindle

My Kindle is convenient for traveling, reading in bed without disturbing my partner, and having a new book ready whenever I finish one. I gave one to my dad a few years ago so he wouldn’t have to special-order large-print books. I have an older model, but the new Kindle Colorsoft models are so chic.

12. Oura Ring

I love learning more about my sleep, activity, and recovery, and the Oura Ring makes it easy to track those metrics in one place. I especially like being able to spot patterns over time, although I’ve learned not to get too caught up in the numbers. It’s a splurge, particularly with the monthly subscription, but I think it’s a fun gift for someone who loves wellness technology.

A Few Things on My Wishlist

Putting together a list of my favorite things also got me thinking about a few things I’ve been eyeing lately. These are some of the items I’m considering!

1. Alex Mill Perfect Weekday Tote

I’ve been eyeing the Alex Mill Perfect Weekday Tote for a while. You can get it monogrammed with hand-painted block lettering, and I’d love to personalize it with my new initials!

2. Brick Screen Time Device

I’ve been intrigued by Brick, a device designed to help reduce phone distractions by blocking access to selected apps. I like the idea of being more intentional about screen time, particularly when I’m writing, reading, or trying to focus.

3. Shark FlexStyle

I graduated Phi Beta Kappa, yet I still can’t figure out how to style my hair. I’ve been considering a multipurpose tool that can dry, smooth, and curl my hair. The Shark FlexStyle seems like a more affordable alternative to the popular Dyson Airwrap.

4. On Cloud Sneakers

Now that I have so many cute workout sets, I’m debating actually leaving the house in athleisure. I’ve been eyeing a pair of chic sneakers, and On Clouds are at the top of my list.

5. Alice Walk Cashmere Wrap

I’ve been eyeing the Alice Walk Cashmere Wrap. It looks so chic and cozy, and I love the idea of wearing it over dresses in the spring and summer when it’s warm during the day but chilly at night. It would also be a great “office sweater” when it’s hot outside but the AC is on full-blast. It’s the kind of classic accessory I could see myself reaching for year after year.