Timeless Treasures: Revisit Our 2015 Favorite Things Holiday Gift Guide (Part 2)
Welcome back to our much-anticipated holiday gift guide! It was truly a delightful challenge to fit all of my cherished discoveries and beloved items from the past year into a single post, which is precisely why I’m thrilled to present Part Two of my 2015 Favorite Things Holiday Gift Guide. What began as a simple sharing of personal favorites has quickly blossomed into a cherished annual tradition, and I sincerely hope you find as much joy in exploring these hand-picked selections as I did in curating them especially for you. If you happened to miss the initial installment of our festive recommendations, fret not! You can easily catch up and discover part one of our comprehensive gift guide right here, brimming with even more fantastic ideas.
This carefully selected compilation features a wonderful blend of items I personally own, utilize regularly, and absolutely adore, alongside a few exciting new discoveries that have recently captured my heart and earned a spot on this coveted list. Whether you’re diligently searching for thoughtful presents for family members, close friends, or perhaps even a little something special to treat yourself this festive season, this guide offers a wonderfully diverse range of gift ideas. From exquisite gourmet treats and indispensable kitchen essentials to must-have beauty products and unique home accents, there’s truly something here to cater to every taste, personality, and budget. We warmly encourage you, our readers, to share your own “favorite things” and cherished discoveries in the comments section below – your valuable recommendations could very well inspire countless fellow gift-givers!
Thoughtful Gifts for the Culinary Enthusiast & Home Entertainer
Harry & David Royal Riviera Pears
When it comes to bestowing an exceptional edible present, Harry & David Royal Riviera Pears have consistently been a long-standing favorite of mine, unfailingly delighting recipients with their unparalleled taste and luxurious texture. These are far from ordinary pears; they are famously succulent, possessing such an extraordinary juiciness that you’ll undoubtedly find yourself savoring every single bite – often while leaning over a sink – a true testament to their exquisite quality and ripeness. Their rich, buttery flavor profile and smooth, almost melt-in-your-mouth consistency elevate them beyond standard fruit, making them a truly decadent treat that stands apart. This makes them an absolutely ideal choice for a diverse array of recipients, whether you’re aiming to impress in-laws, send a heartfelt gesture to distant family members, or surprise friends, particularly those who reside halfway across the country. A beautifully presented box of these magnificent pears offers a unique, healthy, and incredibly delicious alternative to traditional holiday sweets, promising a memorable and refreshing culinary experience that will be cherished.
Anthropologie Ikat Thistle Cup & Saucer
While I don’t currently have the pleasure of owning this specific piece, my profound obsession with beautifully crafted mugs and distinctive tableware means this Anthropologie Ikat Thistle Cup & Saucer holds a prominent spot on my personal wishlist. It’s more than just a vessel for your morning brew or afternoon tea; it’s a miniature work of art designed to transform your daily ritual into a moment of serene indulgence. The intricate ikat thistle pattern is both elegantly charming and visually captivating, instantly adding a touch of sophisticated flair and artistic character to any kitchen or dining setting. It’s an impeccable gift for individuals who deeply appreciate the aesthetic appeal of their kitchenware and find joy in surrounding themselves with unique, beautiful objects. While its delicate craftsmanship might mean it’s not microwave-friendly – a minor consideration when reheating a cooled cup – its sheer beauty and unique design make it an undoubtedly worthy addition to any cherished collection. Consider this a perfect present for the friend who adores hosting elegant tea parties, the interior design enthusiast, or anyone who firmly believes that even the most everyday items should evoke a sense of joy and beauty.
Crate & Barrel Crescent Water Glasses
These exquisite Crescent Water Glasses from Crate & Barrel were a truly cherished addition to our wedding registry, and I can confidently affirm that they have been among the most beloved and frequently used items we received. Prior to acquiring these, our collection consisted of rather basic, inexpensive water glasses that lacked both character and robust durability. The Crescent glasses, however, represent a delightful and significant upgrade. They achieve a flawless balance between generous capacity and elegant design, providing ample space for beverages without ever feeling cumbersome or unwieldy. What I particularly appreciate about them is their robust yet refined construction; they are substantial enough to feel high-quality, yet not so delicate that I’m constantly worried about accidental breakage, making them perfectly suited for everyday family use while still feeling distinctly special. Their timeless and versatile design effortlessly complements any table setting, transitioning gracefully from casual weeknight dinners to more formal holiday gatherings. This set makes an exceptional gift for new homeowners, couples embarking on their life together, or anyone aspiring to elevate their essential kitchenware with pieces that brilliantly combine unwavering practicality with understated, enduring sophistication.
West Elm Gold Flatware
The West Elm Gold Flatware set has rapidly ascended to become one of my absolute favorite and most impactful food photography props over the past year, consistently adding an instant touch of glamour, warmth, and visual intrigue to every dish I capture. While I might not necessarily designate them as my primary everyday flatware – though their undeniable stunning appearance and superior quality would certainly warrant it – their unique ability to “pop” and enhance visual storytelling in photographs is truly unmatched. The radiant, warm metallic sheen of the gold beautifully catches and reflects light, significantly elevating the presentation of any meal and making food look even more appetizing and appealing. Beyond their photographic appeal, this flatware set serves as a spectacular statement piece for special occasions, festive holiday dinners, or simply when you wish to infuse your dining experience with a touch of modern luxury and shimmering elegance. It’s an impeccable gift for the aspiring food photographer, the meticulous hostess who loves to curate a stylish table, or anyone who genuinely enjoys elevating their dining aesthetics with a touch of contemporary sparkle. It’s an investment in style that consistently makes a lasting impression.
Pastry Cloth & Rolling Pin Cover
This ingeniously simple yet incredibly effective Pastry Cloth & Rolling Pin Cover was a surprisingly delightful and immensely practical gift from my mom last year, and it has since become an absolutely indispensable tool in my kitchen, especially during the bustling holiday baking season. For anyone who possesses a passion for baking – from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic beginners – this thoughtfully designed set is an absolute game-changer and makes for a fantastic, practical stocking stuffer or a genuinely thoughtful small gift. The underlying concept is brilliantly straightforward: you lay the specially designed pastry cloth smoothly on your countertop, lightly flour it, and then proceed to use your rolling pin (which is neatly covered with its matching fabric cover) to roll out dough with ease. The true magic lies in how effectively this system prevents dough from stubbornly sticking to the surface or absorbing an excessive amount of flour, which can often lead to tough, dry, or over-worked baked goods. It creates a consistently perfect, non-stick working surface, ensuring smooth, effortless rolling every single time, whether you’re crafting delicate pie crusts, intricate cookies, or fresh homemade pasta. Bid farewell to frustrating, sticky dough mishaps and warmly welcome beautifully rolled, consistently perfect culinary creations!
Essential Beauty & Lifestyle Upgrades
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Without a doubt, the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil stands as my all-time favorite eyeliner – ever. Its well-earned reputation as a cult classic is entirely justified, and for numerous compelling reasons. What truly distinguishes this eye pencil from countless others is its unbelievably smooth, intensely creamy texture that literally glides onto the lash line with zero tugging, pulling, or discomfort, making application an effortless and comfortable experience even for the most sensitive eyes. Once applied, it boasts an impressive, almost miraculous longevity, staying impeccably in place for a remarkably long duration without any dreaded smudging, fading, or budging – a common and frustrating flaw found in many other eyeliners. I’ve personally relied on it in stunning shades like Minx (which, to my dismay, I believe has been discontinued) and Sabbath, a gorgeous dark navy that serves as a fantastic, softer, yet equally striking alternative to traditional black. This eyeliner consistently provides intense color payoff and is incredibly versatile, perfect for creating subtle, everyday definition or dramatic, bold evening looks. It’s an ideal gift for any makeup enthusiast, busy professional, or anyone who deeply values high-performance, long-lasting beauty products that genuinely deliver on every promise. Love, love, love this exceptional product!
Lululemon Crop Bottoms
Confession time: I practically live in yoga pants 24/7, and somewhat ironically, I rarely partake in actual yoga sessions! Lululemon Crop Bottoms have undeniably become an absolute cornerstone staple in my daily wardrobe, proving themselves to be incredibly versatile and indispensable for a vast array of activities. Whether I’m energetically hitting the gym for an intense workout, lounging comfortably and casually at home, running essential errands around town, or enjoying a long, invigorating walk outdoors, these crops consistently provide unparalleled comfort, support, and undeniable style. Having owned and tried numerous brands of workout wear over many years, I can unequivocally state that my Lululemon crop bottoms stand head and shoulders above the rest in terms of both supreme quality and enduring durability. The fabric is of premium grade, offering exceptional stretch and resilient recovery, and they consistently maintain their integrity significantly longer through countless washes and wears than any other brand I’ve encountered. While they might initially be perceived as a pricier investment, their superior quality, exceptional, flattering fit, and extended lifespan truly make them worth every single penny. This is a luxurious yet supremely practical gift for the active woman, the comfort-seeker, or anyone who profoundly appreciates high-quality athletic wear that seamlessly blends peak performance with effortless everyday style.
Organic Rosehip Oil
I first stumbled upon the incredible wonders of Organic Rosehip Oil through Monique of Ambitious Kitchen, and after hearing her glowing and enthusiastic reviews, I wasted no time in purchasing it for myself – and I can confidently say, I haven’t looked back since! This remarkable natural elixir has wrought a dramatic and noticeably positive difference in the overall health and luminous appearance of my skin, proving particularly transformative for my typically very dry complexion. The application process is remarkably simple and quick: just a few precious drops gently massaged onto the face in the morning and once more at night, becoming a vital part of my daily routine. Rosehip oil is widely celebrated for its powerful regenerative properties, being abundantly packed with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that work synergistically to deeply hydrate, visibly brighten, and significantly improve skin texture, effectively reducing the appearance of fine lines, scars, and hyperpigmentation. A quick but important word of caution: the oil naturally possesses a subtle orange tint, so do be mindful when applying it near light-colored towels, pillowcases, or clothing (rest assured, it absorbs beautifully and completely into the skin without leaving any strange color or residue on your face). This potent beauty secret is an exceptional gift for anyone earnestly looking to elevate and enhance their skincare routine with a natural, highly effective product, especially those with dry, mature, sensitive, or blemish-prone skin seeking a healthy, radiant, and revitalized glow.
Inspiring Finds: Tech, Gourmet Indulgences & Creative Tools
Lindt Excellence Pineapple Dark Chocolate
My inaugural encounter with Lindt Excellence Pineapple Dark Chocolate occurred during the inspiring Better Blog Retreat, and from that very first bite, I was instantly and utterly obsessed. This isn’t merely a chocolate bar; it’s a sophisticated and wonderfully unexpected taste experience that flawlessly balances the rich, intense bitterness characteristic of premium dark chocolate with the bright, tangy sweetness of real pineapple. The resulting combination is surprisingly harmonious, incredibly refreshing, and utterly addictive, offering a delightful and exotic twist on a classic confectionery treat. I’m also a profound admirer of Lindt’s Intense Orange Dark Chocolate bar, which stands as another testament to their masterful craftsmanship in creating exquisite fruit-infused dark chocolates. One can only imagine the culinary possibilities if they were to grace us with a Dark Chocolate Passion Fruit bar – I would honestly be set for life! This exquisite chocolate bar makes a delightful and elegant stocking stuffer, a thoughtful and impressive hostess gift, or a perfect little self-indulgence for any discerning chocolate connoisseur. It’s an ideal present for those who truly appreciate gourmet sweets and are eager to explore unique, adventurous flavor combinations that venture delightfully beyond the ordinary.
iPhone 6S Rose Gold
Finally, the moment arrived for my much-anticipated phone upgrade, and I couldn’t be more genuinely excited about selecting the iPhone 6S in its stunning Rose Gold finish. This particular model introduced some of the most significant and impactful camera upgrades since the revolutionary iPhone 4, which, for someone who relies heavily on mobile photography for work and personal passions (like myself), is an absolute game-changer. The dramatically improved sensor, the inclusion of optical image stabilization, and enhanced video recording capabilities mean that capturing breathtaking photos and professional-quality videos is now easier, more intuitive, and more powerful than ever before. Beyond its undeniable technological prowess and advanced features, my choice of the elegant Rose Gold finish might not come as a surprise, given my distinct affinity for this chic and sophisticated hue, which is subtly evident in other cherished items featured on today’s curated gift guide. It’s a stylish statement that perfectly complements its cutting-edge functionality. While the inherent price tag for premium smartphones always makes one pause and ponder “why are phones so expensive?!”, the iPhone’s seamless ecosystem integration, robust app marketplace, and unparalleled premium build quality collectively make it an incredibly worthwhile investment for communication, creative expression, and staying effortlessly connected in our fast-paced world. An excellent gift for the tech-savvy individual, the aspiring mobile photography enthusiast, or anyone whose current smartphone is long overdue for a significant and impactful upgrade.
La Colombe Coffee Beans
Ever since we made the wise investment in this fantastic home espresso maker (a strong contender for its own “favorite thing” list, I might add!), my appreciation for truly high-quality coffee has delightfully evolved into a bit of a connoisseur’s snobbery – in the absolute best way possible, of course! Previously, when primarily using a standard drip coffee maker, I honestly didn’t perceive a dramatically significant flavor difference between various coffee bean brands. However, introducing an espresso machine into our kitchen completely transformed everything; the quality and freshness of the coffee beans now absolutely and unequivocally matter, and I’ve genuinely come to appreciate the intricate and nuanced flavor profiles that exceptional beans can produce. I’ve enthusiastically explored several premium varieties, including Intelligentsia (a highly reputable brand with roots in my beloved Chicago!), Lavazza Espresso Beans (a slightly more affordable yet consistently excellent option for everyday enjoyment), and the exquisite La Colombe Nizza espresso beans. Among these, La Colombe has unequivocally emerged as my undisputed favorite. Its incredibly rich, beautifully balanced profile, and exquisitely smooth finish consistently create an incredibly satisfying and memorable espresso experience, cup after perfect cup. This is an ideal and highly appreciated gift for the serious coffee aficionado, the budding home barista eager to hone their craft, or anyone who begins their day with a fervent, unwavering love for a perfectly brewed, exceptional cup of coffee.
The Vegetarian Flavor Bible
I have consistently waxed poetic about my profound and enduring love for the original Flavor Bible countless times across this blog, enthusiastically hailing it as an utterly indispensable source of comprehensive information and limitless inspiration for innovative recipe development and triumphantly breaking free from persistent culinary ruts. This vegetarian follow-up, aptly titled The Vegetarian Flavor Bible, is a recent and incredibly welcome addition to my expanding cookbook collection, and I daresay I might even love it more than the original – if such an elevated affection is even truly possible! Much like its groundbreaking predecessor, this extraordinary book does not contain traditional recipes in the conventional sense. Instead, it serves as an encyclopedic and intuitive guide to flavor pairings, meticulously listing ingredients alphabetically and then suggesting a wealth of complementary flavors, ideal seasonings, and most suitable cooking methods. For the world of plant-based cooking, this resource is nothing short of revolutionary. It profoundly empowers home cooks to improvise with newfound confidence, significantly expand their knowledge of diverse plant-based ingredients, and dramatically broaden their vegetarian and vegan recipe repertoire. It’s an exceptional and deeply appreciated gift for any home chef genuinely looking to explore and master meatless meals, a devoted vegetarian or vegan enthusiast, or simply anyone eager to inject more vibrant creativity, depth, and unforgettable flavor into their cooking endeavors without relying solely on rigid, prescriptive recipes.
Suite One Studio Pottery
My dear and talented friend Adrianna graciously introduced me to the captivating world of Suite One Studio Pottery earlier this year, and from that very first glimpse, I’ve been utterly and completely obsessed with practically everything the brilliant creator, Lindsay, produces. Her work is a true and beautiful testament to the timeless artistry of handmade craftsmanship, offering exquisitely gorgeous, truly one-of-a-kind pottery pieces that anyone with an appreciation for beauty would genuinely adore and cherish for a lifetime. Each individual piece, ranging from delicately formed mugs to stunningly elegant serving platters, boasts a unique charm, artisanal touch, and artistic flair that mass-produced items simply cannot begin to replicate. Lindsay’s masterful use of subtle, sophisticated colors, elegant glazes, and thoughtful, organic designs ensures her pottery is not merely functional but also serves as an exquisite, sculptural addition to any home decor scheme. I’m particularly enamored with her incredibly unique lace cheeseboards, which are absolutely perfect for elevating any entertaining experience or simply displaying as breathtaking works of art in their own right. This meticulously crafted pottery makes a truly special, profoundly memorable, and deeply personal gift for the dedicated art lover, the discerning home decorator, the gracious hostess, or anyone who deeply appreciates handcrafted beauty, unique artisanal quality, and objects that infuse character and warmth into their cherished living space.
Thank you for wholeheartedly joining me on this delightful journey through my favorite things of 2015! I sincerely hope this second comprehensive installment of our Holiday Gift Guide has generously provided you with a wealth of inspiration for finding truly thoughtful, unique, and memorable presents for all your beloved friends and family this festive season. And remember, if you’re eagerly searching for even more delightful and inspiring gift ideas, you can always easily check out part one of my Holiday Gift Guide right here. Please note that this post thoughtfully contains a few affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you kindly choose to make a purchase through them. Your invaluable support helps tremendously in keeping this blog vibrant and running, and it graciously allows me to continue passionately sharing my favorite discoveries and insights with you. Happy gifting and happy holidays!