I am in most ways, a low-maintenance gal.  My fingernails and eyelashes are real.  My body parts are all organic.  I can be showered and be ready in 30min if necessary.  (Although I prefer a long, lazy shower.)  But I digress, I am rather bougie when it comes to my kitchen.

When I was in my early 30’s, my parents came to visit.  My mom was rather disappointed in all my cheap kitchen implements.  She asked me why my husband had expensive power tools, but I chose to cheap out in my kitchen.  I didn’t have an answer, but I totally agreed with her.  I decided that I would start investing in quality, high-end kitchen tools.  And for holidays, when people would ask me what I wanted, I requested gift cards to my favorite kitchen retailers.

My first major kitchen splurge was my Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer.  I researched all the models so that I could make an informed decision.  I only wanted to make this purchase once.  I settled on a crank lift, professional Kitchen Aid mixer with a bigger, more powerful motor.  (Cue Tim Taylor’s “more power” caveman chant) If a mixer can be sexy, then mine is a siren.  She is matte black with chrome, and I never get sick of looking at her. 

One might think that spending lots of money on a mere kitchen appliance is frivolous, but I highly disagree.  I have had my Kitchen Aid for almost 15yrs and it gets regular use.  It has never let me down and I have tested its limits when making bread or thick batter cookies.   Also, when you go from a hand mixer to a stand mixer, it is life-changing!   I can add ingredients, turn on the machine, and walk away.  It allows you to multitask and be more efficient in your kitchen.   It remains my favorite kitchen tool to date.

If you are thinking about investing in a Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer, I recommend the following tips: 

1. Decide how often and what you plan to use it for.  I wouldn’t recommend buying an upgraded one if you only plan to use it occasionally.  And you don’t need the bigger motor if you’re only making cake mixes and mashed potatoes.
2. Unless you are certain that Orange will be your favorite color for the rest of your life, get a neutral color.  My favorite color has changed 3 times in 15yrs.  I am so thankful that I picked Black because it’s a classic color that never goes out of style. 
3. Wait until a retail holiday to purchase.  Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Boxing Day, Prime Day, are all great times to make major electronics purchase.  Paying full price is for rich people and newbies. Often the money you’ll save, will buy you a fun attachment or accessories!

That is all for this installment of My Bougie Kitchen.  Stay tuned for my next kitchen tool recommendation!

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