The 2017 Favorite Things Gift Guide: Unveiling My Top Picks for Thoughtful Gifts

As the holiday season of 2017 drew to a close, I was thrilled to share what I considered my most cherished and indispensable items from that year. This particular gift guide stood out as my personal favorite, filled with products I genuinely loved and used on a daily basis. Many of these treasures were repeat mentions from previous years, a testament to their enduring quality and utility in my life.

Looking back at that bustling Cyber Monday, it was truly a golden opportunity to snag some incredible deals on many of these coveted items. While those specific 2017 sales are now a memory, the fundamental value and appeal of these products remain timeless. This guide serves as a wonderful resource for inspiration, offering insights into high-quality items that make fantastic gifts, regardless of the season or year.

I always find it insightful to hear what others are loving. If you have personal favorites from any past year that have made a significant positive impact on your daily life, please don’t hesitate to share them in the comments below! Your recommendations are invaluable.

For even more gift ideas from that year, make sure to explore my Cookbook Gift Guide and the Affordable Stocking Stuffers Gift Guide.

My Curated List of Favorite Things for 2017

This carefully selected collection represents the items that truly stood out in 2017, proving their worth through consistent use and undeniable quality. From indispensable kitchen tools to personal tech and comforting home essentials, these are the gifts that keep on giving.

Instant Pot

If you were contemplating investing in an Instant Pot back in 2017, Cyber Monday was indeed one of the best times to make the purchase. This multi-functional kitchen device utterly transformed my cooking habits. I was genuinely surprised by how often I reached for it throughout the year. It’s a true lifesaver for tasks that typically require significant time and effort, such as perfectly cooking dried beans from scratch, effortlessly braising tougher cuts of meat until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender, and making rich, flavorful homemade stock in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities cut down cooking times dramatically, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Beyond savory dishes, it also excels at preparing grains, steaming vegetables, and even making yogurt. I was so impressed that I committed to sharing more Instant Pot recipes on the blog in the following year, further showcasing its incredible versatility. It truly simplifies complex cooking processes, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss.

Sarah Kersten Ceramics

Every time I’ve shared a photograph of a recipe presented in one of these stunning dishes, I’m invariably flooded with questions about their origin. And for good reason! Sarah Kersten Ceramics create my absolute favorite handmade ceramic bowls. There’s a unique charm and character to each piece, particularly the speckled egg finish, which varies beautifully from batch to batch, ensuring your piece is truly one-of-a-kind. These aren’t just bowls; they’re pieces of art that elevate the entire dining experience. Their robust construction speaks to the artisan’s dedication to quality, making them perfect for everyday use while still feeling special enough for entertaining. The subtle imperfections and organic feel of handmade ceramics bring a warmth and authenticity to any table setting, making every meal feel a little more intentional and beautiful. They are a testament to craftsmanship and simple, elegant design.

Echo Dot

Even though I had resisted adopting smart home devices for over a year, the enticing Cyber Monday deal on the Echo Dot in 2017 was almost enough to make me cave! It presented a far more accessible entry point into the smart home ecosystem compared to the larger, more expensive Echo models. The beauty of the Echo Dot lies in its compact size and its ability to be paired seamlessly with an existing Bluetooth speaker, allowing you to leverage your current audio setup for enhanced sound. The idea of having a voice-activated assistant in the kitchen was incredibly appealing – perfect for setting timers with messy hands, looking up recipes on the fly, or simply playing my favorite Spotify playlists while cooking. At just $29.99 during that sale, it was an undeniable bargain for the convenience and entertainment it offered. It truly opened up the possibilities of hands-free interaction and smart home integration in a practical and affordable way, demonstrating how even small gadgets can have a big impact on daily routines.

Breville Barista Express

It’s impossible to count the number of times my household has relied on our Breville Barista Express over the years. This machine is a frequent star on my Instagram Stories, and without fail, I receive a barrage of questions about it. For anyone who shares my passion for a perfectly crafted cappuccino, acquiring one of these will genuinely revolutionize your morning routine and your life. The Breville Barista Express isn’t just an espresso machine; it’s an all-in-one barista station, allowing you to grind fresh beans, extract espresso at the ideal temperature and pressure, and perfectly steam milk – all from the comfort of your kitchen. The quality of coffee it produces rivals that of professional cafes, offering significant savings over time. Its intuitive design and robust build quality are hallmarks of all Breville products, a brand I admire greatly. The joy of consistently pulling a perfect shot and frothing silky milk makes every coffee break a luxurious experience, turning daily ritual into a delightful indulgence.

2018 Nourished Planner

The Nourished Planner quickly became my preferred everyday planner in 2017, and the 2018 edition continued that tradition with welcome improvements. What makes this planner stand out is its thoughtful design, offering an excellent balance between structured goal planning and ample white space. This combination empowers users to set clear objectives while also allowing for flexible, personalized organization. It’s an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality. I particularly appreciated the new design updates implemented for the 2018 version, which further enhanced its usability and aesthetic appeal. In a world full of digital distractions, a physical planner provides a tangible way to organize thoughts, track progress, and cultivate mindfulness. It’s an invaluable tool for anyone looking to bring more structure, intention, and calm to their daily life, making it a perfect gift for students, professionals, or anyone striving for personal growth.

3rd Generation Apple Watch

For a long time, I struggled to fully grasp the true value of the Apple Watch, especially when it mandated having your iPhone constantly within arm’s reach. However, the introduction of the 3rd Generation Apple Watch was a game-changer, addressing this limitation with its cellular connectivity. This new feature, allowing users to leave their phone at home while still making calls, sending texts, and streaming music, was something I absolutely adored. It transformed the device from a mere extension of your phone into a truly independent tool. This freedom is particularly beneficial for workouts, quick errands, or any activity where carrying a phone might be cumbersome. Beyond communication, the Apple Watch excels in health and fitness tracking, providing insights into activity levels, heart rate, and overall well-being. The third generation truly cemented the Apple Watch’s place as an indispensable personal device, offering unparalleled convenience and peace of mind.

Staub 4-Quart Cocotte

In 2017, my favorite Dutch oven brand, Staub, offered an irresistible deal on their 4-quart cocotte, making it available for an incredible price of just $99.99. While this particular size might not be large enough for very ambitious family-sized roasts or enormous batches of stew, it is an exceptionally versatile workhorse for countless other culinary tasks. This size is perfect for preparing small batches of rustic no-knead bread, simmering flavorful soups and sauces, cooking grains, or even braising smaller cuts of meat. I personally found myself reaching for mine several times a week due to its perfect dimensions and superior performance. Staub cocottes are renowned for their exceptional heat retention and even heating capabilities, thanks to their cast-iron construction and tight-fitting lids. They are also incredibly durable and beautiful enough to go straight from the stovetop or oven to the dinner table, making them both a functional kitchen tool and an attractive serving piece. A true investment for any serious home cook.

ScanPan Non-Stick Pans

When it comes to nonstick cookware, ScanPan has long been my unwavering go-to brand. These pans are an absolute essential in my kitchen and are used on an everyday basis for a myriad of cooking tasks, from scrambling eggs to sautéing vegetables and searing delicate fish. While the allure of cheaper non-stick pans can be strong, my experience has taught me that they rarely last, quickly losing their non-stick properties and often being made with inferior or questionable materials. ScanPan, on the other hand, represents a worthwhile investment. Their commitment to quality means their non-stick coating is durable, PFOA-free, and designed to withstand the rigors of daily cooking. They offer excellent heat distribution, ensuring food cooks evenly, and cleaning is an absolute breeze. For anyone seeking reliable, long-lasting, and safe non-stick cookware, ScanPan truly delivers on its promise of performance and durability, making them a kitchen staple you’ll cherish for years.

Revolving Cake Stand

While a revolving cake stand might not be an item I use daily, its importance becomes unequivocally clear whenever I embark on a baking project, particularly when decorating cakes. For anyone passionate about baking, or if you’re looking for the ultimate gift for a cake enthusiast, this is hands down the best-quality revolving cake stand you can find. Its standout feature is the heavy, sturdy cast-iron base, which provides unparalleled stability. This robust construction is crucial for smooth rotation, allowing for precise and effortless frosting, piping, and decorating without any wobbling. Furthermore, its elegant design means it transitions beautifully from a decorating tool to a stunning serving piece. You can get a closer look at its beauty and functionality in action in my London Fog Cake post, where it played a pivotal role in achieving a professional finish. It’s an indispensable tool for achieving bakery-quality cakes at home.

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

I first highlighted the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket in a “Weekly Mix” post a month or so before this guide, and for good reason: it truly is the most versatile outerwear piece I own. In 2017, BackCountry even offered it at a fantastic discount, $80 off its list price, making it an even more attractive purchase. What makes this jacket exceptional is its incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. It packs down to almost nothing, taking up minimal space in a backpack or suitcase, making it an absolute dream for travel. Despite its lightweight and compact nature, it provides impressive insulation, keeping you remarkably warm across a wide range of temperatures. I found myself comfortably wearing mine in conditions spanning from the low 30s all the way up to the high 50s. Its recycled polyester insulation and water-resistant shell make it practical for varying weather, while Patagonia’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices adds another layer of appeal. It’s a durable, stylish, and incredibly functional jacket for almost any adventure.

Eagle Creek Load Warrior

When it comes to luggage, Eagle Creek is my undisputed favorite brand, and their carry-on sized Load Warrior bags are particularly exceptional. For any frequent traveler, or indeed anyone who appreciates efficiency and durability, this luggage is a game-changer. The first thing you’ll notice is how incredibly lightweight these bags are, a significant advantage when navigating airports or adhering to airline weight restrictions. But don’t let their light stature fool you; they are built to last. Eagle Creek stands by its products with a robust lifetime guarantee against wear and tear, offering immense peace of mind. Moreover, the ingenious design of these bags allows them to hold far more than their compact exterior suggests, maximizing packing space without adding bulk. Features like durable wheels, strong zippers, and clever organizational compartments make travel smoother and less stressful. Investing in quality luggage like the Eagle Creek Load Warrior means investing in countless hassle-free journeys, making it an ideal gift for the adventurer in your life.

Lululemon Vinyasa Scarf

Last Christmas, my dad gifted me the Lululemon Vinyasa Scarf, and it quickly became my most indispensable winter accessory. This isn’t just any scarf; its ingenious design allows it to be configured in an astonishing variety of ways, transforming from a classic neck warmer to a shrug, a hooded scarf, or even a travel blanket – seriously, the possibilities are endless! Beyond its incredible versatility, the Vinyasa Scarf offers exceptional warmth without any of the common drawbacks. It keeps me wonderfully cozy without causing any itchiness or making me feel uncomfortably overheated, a problem I often encounter with traditional wool scarves. A major bonus is that it’s made from a sweat-wicking material, making it perfect for active individuals or for staying comfortable when transitioning between indoor and outdoor environments. It’s the ultimate blend of fashion, function, and comfort, making it a thoughtful and practical gift for anyone navigating cooler temperatures with style.

James Robert John ‘Busy Making Memories’ Nail Polish

During a wonderful fall trip to Columbus, Ohio, I was introduced to and gifted the James Robert John ‘Busy Making Memories’ nail polish, and it instantly claimed the title of my all-time favorite nail polish color. This is a significant statement, especially considering I don’t typically consider myself a “nail polish person.” What truly sets this particular shade apart is its remarkable longevity. It consistently lasts for days without chipping, a rare feat for any polish, and particularly impressive for someone like me who is constantly using their hands. Beyond its durability, the ‘Busy Making Memories’ color itself is simply stunning. It’s an incredibly flattering shade that somehow manages to complement all skin tones, offering a sophisticated yet subtle pop of color. I truly love how effortlessly chic it makes my nails look, providing a polished finish without demanding constant touch-ups. It’s a small luxury that delivers big on style and endurance.

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

While it’s certainly possible to live without a KitchenAid Stand Mixer (as I did for many years), for anyone with a passion for baking, it quickly becomes an indispensable centerpiece of the kitchen. This iconic appliance is not merely a convenience; it’s an essential tool that streamlines countless baking tasks, from kneading dough for artisanal breads to whipping up airy meringues and creamy frostings with unparalleled ease and consistency. Beyond its core functions, the KitchenAid Stand Mixer boasts incredible versatility thanks to its power hub, which accommodates a wide array of attachments for everything from making pasta to grinding meat and spiraling vegetables. Its robust construction ensures it’s a durable workhorse that will last for decades. Furthermore, its timeless design and array of vibrant colors make it beautiful enough to proudly display on any kitchen countertop, serving as both a functional tool and a stylish statement piece. In 2017, Target offered an incredibly low price on the professional series, making it an even more compelling investment for aspiring and seasoned bakers alike.

Vitamix 5200 Blender

My Vitamix is a kitchen appliance I use constantly; honestly, I can’t imagine my daily routine without it. In my opinion, Vitamix blenders are 100% worth the investment, particularly if you are serious about healthy eating, love to make nutrient-dense smoothies, homemade soups, nut butters, or even grind your own flours. The sheer power and precision of a Vitamix are unmatched by conventional blenders, allowing it to effortlessly pulverize ingredients into incredibly smooth textures, extracting maximum flavor and nutrition. I own the Vitamix 5200 model, which is a bit tall for fitting under standard kitchen cupboards, but its no-frills, straightforward design makes it incredibly easy and intuitive to use. Back in 2017, Amazon offered an incredible sale on these blenders – I had literally never seen such a low price, making it an opportune moment. If you were eyeing one for yourself or a loved one back then, that day was certainly the time to seize the opportunity. It’s a high-performance machine that truly transforms how you prepare food and boosts your culinary capabilities.

This journey through my 2017 favorite things highlights items that brought significant value, convenience, and joy to my life. While the specific deals of Cyber Monday 2017 are long past, the enduring quality and benefits of these products remain. They represent thoughtful gift ideas for anyone looking to invest in items that truly enhance daily living, whether it’s through culinary exploration, personal organization, technological convenience, or simply bringing a touch of beauty and warmth to the home.

Remember, the best gifts are often those that are well-researched, deeply appreciated, and stand the test of time. I hope this retrospective guide inspires you to seek out quality items that will become your own cherished favorites for years to come.

None of these items have been sponsored. This post contains Amazon and RewardStyle affiliate links. This means that I will earn a very small commission (at no cost to you!) if you purchase an item through my links.