I am hard to shop for. Or so I get the impression from people who don’t deeply know me.

But really, I’m just a girl who has niche tastes and likes things to be high quality. Sometimes that means expensive. Really, though, it’s that I want a gift that makes me feel seen. You could write me a letter (a friend did in college), and it would easily top anything you could buy me.

Giving gifts according to someone’s love language will win EVERY time.

That being said, I am the friend who wants to try everything. I live with curiosity. New hobbies or obsessions are kind of my thing.

I also want my life to feel like a luxury. From the moment I open my eyes to the moments where I’m doing the most mundane things, I’m always looking to elevate the details of how I’m living.

So if you have a friend like me, or you ARE the friend like me, I thought I’d walk you through what is on my Christmas wishlist this year. The details I’m upgrading. The things I’m wishing for (now and in the new year). And the things I would buy if I didn’t own them already.

Grab your cup of tea and settle in. I’m feeling rather chatty.

What’s on My Christmas Wishlist, Really (Organized By Time Of Day)

Morning

I start my day alarm-free. A luxury I’ve recently introduced into my life after a year of navigating sleep anxiety. But before I can open my eyes and start my day, I have to remove my slip eye mask and mouth tape. Both of these things will change your life, and have certainly become essential for my sleep routine.

The eye mask, though, could use an upgrade. As a side sleeper, I’ve noticed that my lashes on the side I sleep on are curled and a bit shorter from the added tension of the mask pulling. Slip has a new design, thanks to the eyelash extension obsession, that leaves space so your lashes can breathe.

Depending on the time of the year, my feet slide into one of two pairs of slippers: a cloud-like sandal or my uggs. Given that I work from home, these are the shoes I wear 60% of the time. I can’t recommend either pair enough.

I typically end up with a new pair every other year because I wear the soles out. But I could go for a new pair, and these are right up my street.

After we go through the first 20 minutes of my day (letting the dogs out, brushing my teeth, raspberry leaf tea, quiet time, and journaling), everything is fair game.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

A Suri toothbrush – I wanted a toothbrush that would actually last me years. And the Suri has exceed every expectation (and created some new ones). It’s electric and great for helping with plaque buildup. You can do a subscription for replacement brush heads. The used brush heads are compostable. It comes with a case that uses blue light to kill bacteria. The charge lasts solidly for a month.

This pen – It’s niche, but it’s the most stolen pen in my house. I buy them in boxes and ration them out to my mother, whose co-workers try to steal hers. I journal with it daily.

Mouth Tape – Yes, it’s an internet trend. But really, it’s great if you’re a mouth breather and wake up with a dry throat constantly. There are additional benefits like helping with cavity prevention, brain health, and other things. I would highly recommend reading the book Breath if you haven’t already.

Oura Ring – I’ve scaled back how I track and how I have access to being updated throughout the day. And it means I rely a lot more on my Oura ring to help me keep on top of things. I use it to track steps, my cycle, and habits I’m testing. I’ve had two versions and used one for a good 5 or so years. You can read my full review here.

Morning Movement & Caffeine

I typically try to wait a bit for caffeine before I have my first cup of tea every day. Depending on the weather, I rotate between this Amazon matcha and this black tea. I do have a matcha set, but I really only use the sifter and spoon. As much as I love whisking matcha in a traditional bowl, I only have one and I hate doing dishes. So for me, it’s easier if I opt for a coffee mug and use an electric frother.

Because Florida keeps warmer temps 7-8 months out of the year, ice is a daily need for me. I personally prefer a crushed ice situation, so I’ll buy a bag of ice from the grocery store every couple of days to keep up with my drink needs. But this pellet ice machine has been on my list for some time.

Typically, I’ll pack up my tea and take it for my morning walk. On days I want something hot, I’ve got my eye on this recently discovered Wedgwood Small Tumbler. The interior is porcelain so it keeps the classic tea cup quality, but the outside steel maintains the heat.

I always wear these leggings and these specific Asics. I’ve tried tons of others, but these are my holy grail products. The Asics also pass the nurse test. I converted my mother, and she has only worn them for work ever since.

I do like to go for a visor over sunglasses in the morning to let sunlight in my eyes more gently and help with my circadian rhythm. But I only have one visor, and she’s well-loved. So a new one is certainly on the Christmas Wishlist.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

De’Longhi Espresso Machine: I’m conscious of where we can elevate our everyday routines but also where I can be more sustainable. And this machine was our 2nd luxury espresso machine after the Terrakaffe saw herself out. I have a review of each machine you can read here: Terrakaffe & De’Longhi.

This machine does everything. Mom loves a classic cup of coffee from it. I will use it for hot water in the mornings and the occasional afternoon cortado. But there’s really not a setting I don’t love and haven’t been obsessed with at some point. It works beautifully with plant-based milk. Speaking of.

Almond Cow: My daily matcha obsession also requires a fair amount of almond milk. And while I love Malk, the rate at which I needed to replenish it was signaling that it might be time to consider making it at home consistently. But I can’t faff with all of the soaking and straining and everything else. So this machine has been perfect.

I’m due to review it for the blog, but just know you can make all kinds of plant-based milk. And it’s worth every penny.

The Anthropologie Juice Cups: I use them daily, and they are just the best small detail of my routine.

Skincare, Makeup & Getting Ready

If we’re being honest, and maybe a bit indulgent,my Airwrap is due for an upgrade. I know, I know. That sounds crazy. But I have an OG version, which means it’s got 2x the amount of pieces, 1/3 of the power, and all of the barrels are too short.

I’ve struggled to use mine consistently because it doesn’t have the power to hold enough of my hair, and it takes 4x as long. We also think it might be a fake, so there’s that. I recently used my best friend’s, and it sold me on the need for an upgrade. Also,the newer version has the option for a tool that also straightens, which is so lovely because my fine hair needs a better option than using a flat iron.

I’m somewhat happy with my shower and skincare routine. But I’ve had my eye on the Hanni Shower Slave for a while now. And I’ve recently fallen down the Abbey Yung hair routine rabbit hole. Now, I need to rethink all the hair things.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

A Skinny Confidential Ice Roller: These might be a hot commodity this year, given that Lauren announced they were revamping the design (I think). They are only available wherever they still have stock after the TSC website ran out. But they do have a travel version (which I don’t own but do want), and it gets rave reviews.

This is perfect if you feel like your eyes need help depuffing. Or if you feel like your face just looks extra puffy in the mornings. A gua sha & ice roll session changes everything.

I Wouldn’t Ask For:

Therabody Red Light LED Mask: I don’t know if I got a dud or what. But this has done nothing noticeable for me. And I’ve used it with next-level consistency. I plan to look into this more in the new year, but it’s worth noting for those curious. So far, it’s a pass for me.

Getting Dressed For The Day:

I did quite an extensive list in preparation for fall fashion this year, and I’ve yet to buy anything from it. Everything from boots to dresses to purses to skirts is on the list. And of course, tops. Florida has had quite a number of days where you want it to be fall, but you don’t want to wear the same shirts you’ve been wearing all summer. It’s an odd fashion niche, and it’s time to shop for it.

Work From Home Routine

The first thing I do to transition into the work portion of my day is to write out my priorities. Part of being a creator means that I have a million ideas flowing in my head at a time about what I could be doing. Content I could be creating. Blog posts I could be writing. So, having a way to keep it organized but still letting myself adapt quickly has been a learned skill of mine.

I use an iPad Pro that I swear by and GoodNotes to jot out my day.

The other thing is helping my brain know when it should be working and when I can step away for the day. I do a balance of things. But putting on my jewelry, sitting at my antique desk, or with my laptop desk, and picking the right playlist helps me switch on my mind.

I have tried the walking pad and tray on my Peloton tread. Built ultimately it makes me feel like a hamster on a wheel, and I’d just rather go for a walk outside.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

This watch from Amazon: I get so many compliments on it. It looks luxury but is budget-friendly. And it means I don’t need my Apple Watch when I’m not tracking a workout. Plus, it looks A LOT better with your outfits.

These blue light glasses: I love this set of set because it means my outfits always have the perfect matching glasses.

This Amazon loungewear set: I own it in two colors. It’s chic and perfect for cozy writing or admin days.

Working Out & About:

As I’m now blogging more regularly, my work routine is shifting. But generally, I’m never far from an Apple device for long. That being said, I don’t actually own the AirPods Max, and based on a bit of research, they’ve been a recent addition to my Christmas Wishlist. After years of editing and writing in all of the places, I’ve found noise-cancelling headphones make all the difference.

And while I enjoy using my AirPods, I prefer something that isn’t in-ear for longer writing sessions and plane travel. The Bose Quiet Comfort headphones have been wonderful for the past 8 years, but the ear cover will no longer stay on, and the AirPods Max have better detailed sound quality.

Can we tell I like to invest in things and then keep them until they truly break?

But the other perfect gift, for myself and I 1000% believe for you, is a gift card to my favorite spa, my current hair salon, and my forever nail salon.

If you’re in the Panhandle area, the Serenity By The Sea Spa is the perfect workspace for a day. They offer plenty of amenities that you can enjoy before & after your treatment. A hot sauna, a wet sauna, a jacuzzi, a large lounge space to work in, a spa room service menu, plus access to the gym and pool.

I’m woefully behind on my body self-care, so if we’re being real, this is the perfect place for me because it means I can feel extra pampered while also staying on top of things.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

Fuji-Film X-T4 Mirrorless Camera: We shoot most of the blog photos on this camera (or my iPhone). It’s more compact than a DSLR, and even my photographer friends love it.

This Tripod: I use this constantly: bts footage, short content, when I need to (try to) shoot photos on my own with my phone.

MagSafe Octo Buddy: I love an Octo Buddy for when I want to pop my phone up on the mirror for an evening debrief. But I use so many various tripods and things that it’s not feasible for me to have one on my phone at all times. These are great if you want to stick your phone on the bathroom mirror to watch a tutorial in real time, watch content while you’re getting ready, or just need your phone at eye level when you’re cooking.

Afternoon Tea

I do love afternoon tea. And I’ve recently decided that it’s time to learn more about the holistic benefits of different herbs to make my own homemade teas. A friend gifted me this book a few years ago, and it will certainly help me make a great start.

But I have my eye on this set for learning my taste and creating custom teas, as well as this gorgeous teapot.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

A Tea For One: If you read my Bridgerton Tea Party blog post, you’ll have seen the stunning set we use when there are several of us for tea. But most days, I’m quite content with the simple version. Tea For One is the perfect gift for the friend you know loves tea. (I’ve linked mine that matches my tea set. But you can find them at all price points.)

Any Rishi Tea: I always assumed I didn’t like green tea until I tried theirs last year. And once I did, I was hooked. You can buy them online, in stores, and in bulk. I’m a fan of almost all of them.

Sweet Tooth (A Cookbook): Saturdays are typically family game night, and I find myself baking from it at least once a week. When I’m feeling particularly stressed, want a screen break, or just need to exercise some creativity, I bake. This cookbook has been a recent favorite for both me and my friends (who are obsessed with what I’ve baked from it).

A Kitchen Aid Mixer: We have two. The newer version that my mother gifted herself for a very big birthday, and the one her mother owned. The butter yellow is a timeless color. But I couldn’t imagine baking without it.

An Evening Of Cooking & Unwinding

You’ll learn in a blog post soon (as I am currently still writing it) that I’ve done quite a bit to reset my Dopamine routine this year. One of the things I did to help with that was to implement the cooking CD (or record as it is more frequently).

Given that I’m new to record collecting, the possibilities for gifting are endless for me. All of the Ariana Grande albums are on my list. Olivia Dean, Gracie Abrams, and Louis Armstrong are also on the list. You really can’t go wrong with a classic album. And it’s certainly one of the highlights of my evening.

If I were feeling decadent, I would say I am due for some new wine glasses. And a bottle of my favorite red, white, or champagne is always welcome.

But I most certainly wouldn’t mind a gift card to one of my favorite local restaurants for the nights where I’d prefer someone else do the cooking: Oku (post coming soon), La Crema, The Citizen, and Hunt & Gather are always welcome.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

Le Creuset Pots: The 3qt and the 5qt are probably our most used. But they last for ages, go from stove to oven, and make cooking feel like a luxury.

Ninja Double Air-Fryer: We inevitably buy or test out all of the Ninja products. However, this is the most used machine after the coffee machine for everyone in my house. Chicken and salmon are frequently cooked in this to pair with salads or easy veggies. It’s a must-have.

Wolf Toaster: I didn’t think I needed a toaster until we got this one. Now I can’t imagine life without it. I never seem to eat bread before it goes stale, so we often slice & freeze. The frozen setting on this toaster means my bread comes out perfectly every time. And it tastes like it’s fresh.

A Fish Spatula: I think I introduced everyone in my life to this because it’s just life-changing. We cook a lot of eggs and fish. This gets even the most delicate things out of your pan easily.

Other cooking essentials: These spatulas. This meat thermometer. This liquid measuring cup. This spice blend (I put it on everything).

Bedtime & Falling Asleep

Most days, you’ll find me filming, writing, editing and uploading until about 45 minutes before I’m meant to go to bed. So it’s important for me that I have a solid bedtime routine so it feels like I’m making space for myself as I unwind.

My bedding, much like everything else, is desperately due for an upgrade. I’ve had my eye on this set from Quince for the last few months.

If I didn’t already own it, I would ask for on my Christmas Wishlist:

This Mattress: I was forced to invest in a new mattress last year after mine finally made it clear it was time. And I’ve been thankful for every sleep in it since. Even Asher, my husky, is obsessed. He sneaks on it for naps daily.

Kindle Colorsoft: I just did a review here, but I couldn’t live without my Kindle. I often buy physical books, but it’s easier to relax in bed in the evening with this.

CBD Gummies: I swap between two: Earlybird CBD & Cured. I try to be mindful about how often I have wine, so when I need help sleeping, I reach for these. Cured has ashwaganda in it so the taste is bitter, but I find it works quickly, and I find the impact stronger. Earlybird has some of my favorite flavors. I do have a discount code for Cured (Code: WHATSAVVYSAID).

Heated Lavender Eye Masks: A recent Amazon find, and wonderful when I need to help my brain really step away from the overthinking. I will pop this under my slip eye mask and just let my mind unwind.

Caped Heating Pad: I am known for this specific item with my friends. I’m also known for using them to the point they die because that is essential it is for me. My mother has started buying them in bulk. If you carry a lot of tension/stress in your shoulders, this can help soften and release it. The magnet on the front means it stays on when you need to wiggle around. So you don’t have to try to get it just right. It will simply stay in place.

Wrap Up Your Christmas Wishlist with These Ideas

Whew, I did tell you I was feeling chatty. And we didn’t even go over the travel things. But I think I’ll save that for another day. For now, I hope you enjoyed this break and found a few ideas for your Christmas Wishlist or your bestie. I’d love to know in the comments anything you’d add or what you end up getting. Until next time.

Xoxo, Savvy

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