I dread coming up with a Christmas wish list. I want items I’ll use, not cheap or gimmicky things that will end up in the trash.
This year as I wracked my brain for something other than a gift card, I found myself thinking of things I already have that I wish I could ask for all over again. So I thought, why not write them out in case someone else could use ideas?
Here’s the list: Tried and true items that are as useful as they come; the things that would be at the top of my list if I need them again.
If you find this helpful, please feel free to share with someone you know!
– Lauren
Fairbault Throw Blankets
Faribault (pronounced fehr-bow) is a 150-year-old wool mill in Minnesota that makes the best throws and blankets. These classy throw blankets are investments, because they’re made to last generations.
I now own two of these and they’ve only gotten better with age. The soft wool yarn keeps you cozy without overheating, and they’re not scratchy. Made by wonderful people in the USA.
This style is available on Amazon, with many more on Faribault’s website.
The Sharpest Kitchen Knife
…EVER.
This knife is insane. We have a fancy, high-end knife set, and this one puts those to shame.
Really – there are like 8,400 reviews on this and the average rating is 5/5 stars.
Apple Silicone Phone Cases
These are my favorite phone cases: a slim profile, not crazy expensive, and they last for years.
Plus, the colors are great – my current favorites are the green and white. Justin always has a black one, and they just look classy.
Cases for: iPhone 14 pro | iPhone 13 pro | iPhone SE | All models
Candle Wick Trimmer
This seems dumb until you use it, but once you do, you get the appeal immediately. But not having to wipe wax off of a pair of scissors is worth it alone.
Bean Boots
The original duck boots. How refreshing to know you’ll probably only ever need one pair.
From LL Bean: “Whoever says, “they don’t build things like they used to,” doesn’t own a pair of these. Our signature boots are still sewn right here in Maine – one pair at a time – by expert craftspeople whose technical skills and passion for their work is evident in every pair they make. As rugged and hardworking as they were over 100 years ago, chances are you’ll only ever need one pair.”
Onion Cutter
I’m including this because I’ve used it 3 times in the last week and countless times in the last few years. I’d probably avoid recipes with onions entirely if it wasn’t for this tool. It helps prevent crying so much.
The “ultra-sharp German stainless steel blades” on it are no joke.
Sonos Speakers
The best speakers for brilliant sound. They also connect via Wi-Fi, which makes for a less glitchy (and higher quality) connection than Bluetooth. Sonos puts a couple of styles on sale every Black Friday.
Contigo Water Bottle
These have a lifetime warranty and I’ve used it several times to replace a bottle for free when it’s been damaged.
My favorite is their insulated water bottle for hot summers.
The brand has tons of styles, including travel mugs and kids options.
