Our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide

Each year, I look forward to rounding up our most loved, most used and most wished for items of the year. Lucas and I carefully select our favorites, along with everything we’ve personally gifted or have on our wish list.

Green, burgundy, brown and blue holiday gift wrap inspiration — *Gift wrap & ribbon sources*

Just like in past years, I’ve grouped our family’s favorites into three different lists curated by Jenna, Lucas and Esmé (she had a little help from mom, of course 😉) In these guides you’ll find everything from well-known brands to small businesses, quick-ship items to personalized and handmade pieces, best sellers to one-of-a-kind finds.

Jenna’s Favorites

Cuisinart knife set // I finally upgraded our old mismatched knives to this sleek white Cuisinart set and meal prep has never been more satisfying. I store mine in this drawer knife block and it makes me happy every time I open it.
Tree Farm Candle by Henro // It’s no secret that Henro Company Candles are my favorite, and I gift them to my friends every year. I’ve never met a more highly scented candle (made with clean ingredients) and their new packaging is gorgeous. If you want your home to smell like a Christmas Tree farm, this is the scent.
Waffle Weave Turkish towels // The softest and fluffiest waffle weave towel I’ve ever touched. I used this set in our recent bathroom renovation, and plan to use them exclusively at the Hacienda Hideaway. Hands down my favorite towels out there!
Match cloche // Loving this match holder trend that doubles as a beautiful decorative piece, available in four different colors. Perfect to gift to your décor-loving friend or a hostess gift!
Hammered Copper Serving Set // I went on a copper deep dive when shopping for our Hacienda kitchen, and came across these handmade beauties. Hammered copper is timeless, and this $14 set would be perfect for holiday meals (or any occasion).
Blanket Scarf // My cold weather and travel staple. These scarves double as blankets on planes or anywhere on the go, and come in a ton of cute patterns under $15. I’ve owned this one for years!
Hanging toiletry organizer // Keep all of your makeup/toiletries organized during your holiday travels. I love that this one includes a hook to save counter space, and you can easily see and grab what you need. // Currently 33% off
Candle Care Kit // A must-have for any candle lover. Keeping your candle wicks trimmed will help it burn cleaner and last longer. This one comes in a cute pouch for gifting.
Anastasia Brow Freeze // My holy-grail beauty find for 2022. This wax keeps my eyebrows in place all day, and gives the laminated look without the cost/hassle of laminating. I don’t know how I lived without this for so long!
La Vie Est Belle L’Eau de Parfum // My new signature scent. I landed on this one after testing out a ton of samples recently, and it’s everything I want—warm vanilla, sugar, floral and spice. The travel size is on my gift list this year!
Dainty Initial Necklace // This sweet and simple handmade necklace is perfect for a minimalist mama (raises hand!) You can add multiple initials to represent your loved ones. Eyeing this one for next Mother’s Day after baby boy joins our fam 🙂
Gold Cocktail Shaker // I’ve gifted this to a cocktail-connoisseur friend and she loved it! The elegant gold finish makes fancy cocktails feel even more special. I’d love to add this one to our own bar cabinet someday.
Organic Mocktail Kit // Festive (and healthy!) mocktails so the non-drinkers and us pregnant folks have something special to sip on at holiday gatherings. I’ll definitely need this this year!
Sugar & Spice Body Care Box // For your winter-holiday loving friends and colleagues (raises hand!) No better way to get into the seasonal spirit than with spiced cranberry and peppermint soaps, lotion and lip balm. A ready-made gift in a cute berry basket, or divide them up into separate gift baskets or stockings.
Caraway Ceramic Cookware Set // I recently upgraded our cookware to this set in cream, and the difference is night and day—no more soaking and scrubbing pots and pans! The ceramic coating is a dream and they come in 10 stylish color combos. We got a set (in sage) for the Riverside Retreat last year, and I grabbed one in navy for the Hacienda Hideaway as well. This makes a generous and practical gift anyone would be happy to receive. // Currently up to 20% off
Eufy X8 Hybrid Robotic Vacuum // I scored one of these on sale during Amazon’s recent Prime sale and it’s so much better than our old robotic vacuum! This one maps out the entire house to ensure it covers every corner, doesn’t get lost when trying to dock like our old model, and even has a mop attachment. This would make a great gift for a new homeowner, or anyone with a busy schedule. // Currently 15% off
Veggie Chopper + Slicer // On my wishlist this year! Food prep is my least favorite part of cooking (onions always make me cry) and I think this would be a lifesaver. It’s Amazon’s best selling chopper with nearly 70,000 reviews—it has to be good. // Currently 25% off
Pureology 21 Benefits // My hair stylist turned me on to this a while back and it’s the one hair care product I use religiously. It’s a well-known stylist favorite to smooth, detangle and protect all types of hair. It smells great, too!
Jackbox Party Game Pack // We downloaded this virtual party game pack during Covid to keep up our game nights with friends, and still play it regularly. It’s easily transferred to any smart TV, laptop or gaming console. Our favorite game is Drawful—it’s great for all ages and we end up crying laughing every time. Perfect to play with family over the holidays!
Eight Dates Book // This guided date-night book is one of the best things Lucas and I have ever done for our relationship. It guides you through meaningful and important conversations, spread out over eight dates, and helps you understand connect with your partner in new ways. We’ve gifted this to other couples and can’t speak highly enough about it.
Tote and handbag set // I traded my diaper bag for this stylish faux leather set this year, and use them every day. The large bag is roomy and perfect for my everyday essentials, while the smaller bags are ideal for childless-outings or quick trips. It’s available in a ton of different colors, and the price is amazing!

Lucas’ Favorites

Dewalt Cordless Circular Saw // Easily my current favorite tool. I’ve used this saw on almost every project recently. It’s so easy to use and should be a must have in every tool collection.
Organic Muscle Rub // Each new DIY project brings a new muscle that hasn’t been used in a while, resulting in some very sore spots. This rub is an amazing solution to help recover quicker and get back in no time to doing those things that made you sore in the first place.
YETI Rambler Travel Mug // It’s hard to beat anything YETI makes, including this mug. I always prefer a mug with a handle that fits into a cup holder, and this bad boy keeps my drinks hot or cold all day.
Cordless Brad Nailer // I’m still kicking myself for not getting this finish nailer sooner! It cleans up a cluttered space by getting rid of the air compressor and cords, and is easy to maneuver for any job. // Currently 14% off
I Need More Clamps shirt // Anyone that builds furniture, or just works with wood, understands the truth of this shirt.
Irwin Quick Grip Clamps // Like the shirt above says, you can never have enough clamps. If you work with wood or build anything, you need clamps of all shapes, sizes, and style. These small Quick grip clamps are super easy to use with one hand for the every day clamping need.
Dewalt Cordless Oscillating Tool // This is going to be my gift to myself this year. I’ve been using a corded multi-tool for too long. The added maneuverability and ease of use will bring a smile to my face every time I need it 🙂 // Currently 28% off
Dewalt Cordless Orbital Sander // Anyone find yourself swearing under your breath having to deal with a power cord while sanding? (Raises hand). Dealing with extension cords, tripping over them, or having the sander unplug by accident are not a fun part of a project. Get rid of those stresses with this cordless option. // Currently 33% off
Portable Rocker Camping Chair // Have you ever sat in one of these rocking folding chairs? They are magic. The absolute best choice whether on a camping trip, at a bluegrass festival, or simply around the fire-pit in your back yard. // Currently 11% off
Bosch Laser Distance Measure // Tiny tool to get precise measurements for any distance. Much easier to use and more accurate than a tape measure, this is a must have for everyone from the professional builder to the casual DIYer. // Currently 20% off
The New Yorker Winter Jigsaw Puzzle // There is something meditative about sitting down and focusing on a good puzzle. Our daughter is obsessed with puzzles right now, and watching her has given me the itch to tackle one with family over the holidays (preferably without Elsa and Anna on it).
Whiskey Making Kit // Take your DIY skills to the next level with this create-your-own whiskey making kit. Better yet, get one for each family member and make it a competition!
Dewalt Cordless Drill Combo Kit // Our go-to drill and impact driver. This impact driver is probably my most used tool of all time. It has held up great over the years and still performs like it’s right out of the box.
Magid Safety Glasses // You don’t have to sacrifice looks for the sake of safety with these glasses. They are comfortable, look good, and give your eyes the needed protection they deserve.
The Upside Down Challenge Game // I have mixed feelings about recommending this game because I literally have never won. Jenna is some sort of magic woman when it comes to this game. Her brain just works different, and she refuses to let me win. So good luck. I hope you are better at it than I am. // Currently 21% off
Think Like a Monk // Slowing down, appreciating what you have, and not getting dragged into the material world we live in are things I strive for. This book by Jay Shetty is a great guide on how to approach this constant challenge every day.
Sawdust is Man Glitter Shirt // I’ve had this for a few years and it’s my most used and loved DIY shirt. Because we all need a little glitter in our lives, and not everyone has a daughter to sprinkle the real stuff around.
ProSensor 710+ Stud Finder // We recently added this stud finder to our toolbox. So easy to use and quickly shows the entire width of the stud. Combine this with a magnetic stud finder and you’ve got all your bases covered for every type of wall.
Micro Sander Kit // Handy little sanding tool to help with those small spaces where a normal sanding block won’t do. Great for the every day DIYer and the occasional project around the house.
Deluxe Hot Sauce Making Kit // For the person in your life that likes a little spicy fun. We enjoy our hot sauces, but creating your own takes it to another level. Would make a great gift for a date night activity!

Esmé’s Favorites

Personalized Night Before Christmas book // Each year, Esmé gets a new personalized Christmas book and it has become one of my favorite traditions to read with her. These books are great quality, and they really help build up anticipation for the big day.
Cottontail Cottage // Is this not the most charming dollhouse you’ve ever seen? It includes matching wooden furniture and is perfect for cultivating their little imaginations.
Versailles Deluxe Play Kitchen // Esme’s play kitchen is one of her most used/loved toys, and this one is in another league. If you can’t afford your dream kitchen with a $15k La Cornue range… at least your little can have one of her own! // Currently 35% off
Wooden Bowling Set // A classic game for kids and adults alike, in a timeless style. Play it indoors or out, with the whole family over the holidays. // Currently 13% off
Yoto Audio Player // Way more fun than Alexa, this little device plays music, audiobooks and activities (it also has a built-in programmable nightlight, which I love!) Kids can choose what to listen to by inserting content cards, providing hours of entertainment.
Balance bike // We have a simple wooden balance bike that Esmé enjoys, but this one is definitely a level (or two) above. It comes in multiple colors, and that wicker basket and leather accents are perfection.
Organic Cotton Fair Isle Sweater // I’ve always loved fair isle charm, and this sweet and festive sweater can be worn all winter long. We have a long cold weather trip coming up and it’s in my cart now!
Les Parisiennes Tea Set // Esmé was gifted a plastic tea set that she uses all the time, but I think it’s time to upgrade to this chic tin Parisienne set. I love the cute carrying case it comes in as well!
4-in-1 Wooden Puzzle Set // This was the first puzzle Esmé received as a gift, and she’s been hooked on puzzles ever since! It’s the perfect set to learn on, and comes in a divided storage box so you won’t lose the pieces. // Currently 31% off
Picasso Tiles Magnetic Blocks // These tiles are all the rage right now. Esmé loves playing with them at our local museum, and at friends houses. I love that they help develop STEM skills and foster creativity. This set even has glitter in them—perfect for castle making!
Plaid Holiday Nightgown // When I was little, I always looked forward to waking up on Christmas day in my new pajamas. This classic smocked nightgown is adorable and I can’t wait to see her in it!
Rainbow Sparkle Watercolor Crayons // The only thing Esmé wants to do lately is color! We’ve been going through crayons and markers like crazy, but I think she would love these watercolor gel crayons. A unique combination of drawing + watercolor painting.
Philips Sonicare Kids Toothbrush // Brushing teeth is a lot easier and quicker with this electric toothbrush. We got one for her last Christmas, and it has helped her to learn and become more independent brushing her own teeth.
Magnetic Dress Up Doll // Another toy Esmé received for her birthday that has been a huge hit. There are plenty of accessories to dress each doll, and she loves having complete creative freedom. // Currently 27% off
Food Groups Wooden Set // Esmé’s play kitchen is stocked with fruits and veggies, but she’s missing the other grocery staples. This one is on my list to gift to her this year so she can make a wider variety of meals. // Currently 29% off
Activity and Sensory Table // This multi-purpose sensory bin and activity table is a hit with any young kid! It’s the first thing Esmé wants to play with at her cousin’s house. This one includes three sensory bins, and two reversible covers with a chalkboard and a train track.
Sherpa Bear boots // The most darling little cozy boots I’ve come across. These look super cozy and will be great for walking around the airport. They’re 40% off (sale ends today!) so I had to buy them. // 40% off ends 11/9!
Frozen “Look and Find” activity book // If your child is Frozen-obsessed like ours, this is sure to be a hit. Perfect entertainment for road trips and travel days! Just bought this for our upcoming Thanksgiving trip.
Water Wow activity pad // Another great activity to keep the kids entertained while traveling. This one is mess-free and reusable! We have a small collection of Water Wow books, and there are plenty of themes to choose from. // Currently 24% off
Kid Safe knife set // A great way to include your little one during meal prep! These nylon serrated knives are a safe and fun way to let them explore and develop new skills. Esmé has shown interest in helping us when we cook dinner, and this is one gift I’m excited to use with her.

I hope these guides were helpful for your holiday shopping this year. Make sure to follow along on my Instagram stories for more gifting and holiday decor ideas over the next month. Next up: more guest bedroom progress!