Holiday Gift List for Home Chefs, Workout Fanatics & Travelers

The Black Friday sales are here and unless you’ve been under a rock (or offline) you’ve been getting inundated with emails and sales. While I try to keep my shopping to a minimum throughout the year, I also appreciate good savings so I’m more than happy to take advantage of replacing or buying things I need at a good discount! I’ve compiled my list into Cooking, Fitness and Travel below and I hope you find something fun for yourself or someone you love!

Check it out below!

Love to Cook or Know Someone Who Does?

Black Friday is the perfect time to upgrade your tools and gadgets. From high-quality knives to cookware that lasts a lifetime, these deals will have you whipping up your favorite dishes with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just love experimenting, these are my must-haves to elevate your culinary game.

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Mixer (27% OFF check price)
- The ultimate countertop companion for all your baking adventures, now at a can't-miss price! This will last a lifetime! From cake batters to pizza doughs to homemade butter and frosting, this workhorse can do it all! Feel spendy? Buy the pasta attachments too!
Non-slip Pastry Mat Extra Large with Measurements (half off!)
- A baker's dream for rolling, measuring, and keeping your workspace clean—now half off! You might as well keep your counter clean AND have a sweet guide to roll your dough on!
Silicone Spatula Set (check it out)
- Perfect for mixing, scraping, and baking like a pro, these spatulas are a must-have kitchen essential. I buy these and bring them to every place I go!
Ooni Koda 12 Gas Pizza Oven (20% off list!)
- Bring restaurant-quality pizza to your backyard in minutes—you can also do fajitas, flatbreads and more!
Espresso Machine (22% off daily happiness)
- Start your mornings with café-quality espresso and daily happiness at an unbeatable price.
Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid (I use this at least 3x a week)
- My go-to for soups, stews, and braised items and more—used multiple times a week in my kitchen! I also love the shallower versions.
Blendtec Total Blender Classic (20% off)
- Crush ice, blend smoothies, sauces, dressings, shakes or soups in seconds with this powerhouse blender. I’ve used Blendtec in my commercial kitchen and it’s a daily staple at home!
Shun Premier 7" Santoku Knife (23% off now!)
- Razor-sharp, beautifully crafted, and a must-have for any home chef—grab it while it’s on sale! I love it so much that I may even buy a second version to take back to the island with me!

Jumpstart Your 2025 Fitness!

If this is really your year to focus on getting in shape, these are my must-haves! I have items I travel with and things I love so much I have both in the US and at our home in Greece. You don’t need much equipment to get in fantastic shape - you just need consistency!

My favorite workout app! (50% Subscription for Black Friday now!)
- I’ve been using Built by Becky for over a year and it’s been the workout program that has made the biggest difference in my health and fitness! I do her programs (just started Curves and Core again) and I cannot recommend it enough!
Adjustable Dumbbells up to 55# each (This is a fantastic deal!!!!!)
- This is an INSANE deal on these! I’ve used these since I first did P90x something like 15 years ago and I still have them, and still use them!!!!!
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder (Check price now)
- My tried and true fave - no bloating, stomach issues, funky fake sugar taste and it blends amazingly every time!
High Waist Yoga Shorts (under $15!)
- Simple, cute, flattering on the waist area and has a pocket for your phone or earbuds!
My Favorite Sports Bra (check it out!)
- Does everything it should and nothing it shouldn’t for an affordable price!
Resistance Bands (under $20)
- I use these at home and while traveling - for under $20? Easy!
The Only Road Running Shoe I Wear (shop now)
- The Brooks Ghost is frequently on the top running shoe list year after year after year, I’ve worn these exclusively for…over a decade as well! If you ever need to get me a gift, I’m a size 9 ;)
The Only Trail Running Shoe I Wear (50% off wow!!!!)
- The Brooks Cascadia is also frequently on the top running shoe list year after year after year, I’ve worn these exclusively for…over a decade as well! I put thousands of miles of trails on these - I’m a size 9 ;)

Travel Favorites

Love to travel? Me too (obviously)!!! Making it a goal for 2025? These are the things I cannot live without or are residing on my wish list!!

Apple AirPods Pro (32% OFF!!!!)
- Your perfect travel companion for noise-free flights, podcasts, and calls on the go—grab them while they’re this discounted!
Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases (must have)
- Keep your suitcase organized and maximize space—these cubes are a game-changer for any traveler.
Power Bank for Charging Phone (get it now)
- Never run out of battery while exploring; this is an absolute must-have for staying connected on the road. I rely on my phone for maps, work and contact - running out of battery is not possible!
Crossbody Bag (like this one!)
- Stylish, secure, and perfect for carrying your essentials while keeping your hands free—great for day trips or exploring cities! I have a lululemon crossbody (or fannypack) I got on sale, but by all means - get one you like that’s in your budget!
Allbirds Sneakers (check price)
- Lightweight, super comfortable, and versatile enough for travel days or casual outings—these are my go-to shoes, they slip on and off.
Backpack - Luxury Version (add to cart!)
- A sleek, durable option for travelers who love functionality with a touch of style—worth every penny!
Backpack - Economy Version with travel cubes! (check it out!)
- Budget-friendly and includes packing cubes for ultimate organization—perfect for any travel style.
Rayban sunglasses (33% off!)
- Always a classic—an absolute steal at this price!