Like many, my introduction to Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, wasn’t through her cookbooks but through the comforting glow of the Food Network. Back in 2013, my TV was usually tuned into shows like Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Food documentaries were a weekend morning treat. Then, I stumbled upon Ree. It was a Saturday morning, and she was demonstrating make-ahead freezer meals. Her warm personality immediately drew me in.
Fast forward to 2017, and suddenly, Pioneer Woman’s signature floral designs and vibrant kitchenware were popping up at Walmart. It started subtly. My husband, then my fiancé, surprised me with Pioneer Woman dinnerware – four sets of plates and bowls. This thoughtful gift unknowingly ignited a full-blown Pioneer Woman obsession in my kitchen.
Initially, it was just the dining table that received the Pioneer Woman treatment. Those charming plates led to tablecloths, then placemats, and the collection grew from there.
Soon, my baking adventures were also infused with Pioneer Woman flair. Oven mitts and an 8×8 inch glass baking dish joined the ranks of my kitchen tools.
And then, there was the cookbook. I purchased Ree Drummond’s The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Come and Get It. Confession time: I haven’t actually cooked a single recipe from it yet! Instead, I’ve used it more for glimpses into Ree’s life and home cooking tips. Naturally, to properly display this beautiful cookbook, I had to get the Pioneer Woman Cookbook Holder. You can even spot a corner of it in my Instagram photo.
My Pioneer Woman purchasing climax (or so I thought) was an adorable wicker picnic basket with a gingham, removable cloth liner. Another gift from my fiancé-turned-husband. While visually appealing, its practicality was limited; it ended up being more decorative than functional.
Overall, most of the Pioneer Woman items I’ve acquired have proven to be quite durable. My collection began about four years ago, and only a few items have failed to stand the test of time. Sadly, these included some bowls and, disappointingly, the cookbook stand.
Two out of four bowls developed cracks in their lower halves. And the Pioneer Woman cookbook holder? The base, held together by glue, couldn’t handle the weight of the Come and Get It cookbook. The glue gave way, resulting in a clean separation. I was genuinely bummed about the cookbook holder’s fragility.
Despite these few durability issues, I still appreciate the Pioneer Woman brand. However, I now admire most of Ree Drummond’s merchandise from a distance. There’s a distinct line between wanting and needing, and currently, I don’t need Pioneer Woman knives, pots, pans, a slow cooker, or a lunch bag.
Ree Drummond is undeniably a talented cook and engaging writer. She’s successfully offered fans a taste of her lifestyle at accessible prices. I value that, but brand names don’t always guarantee top-tier quality. When it’s time to replace kitchen essentials, I’ll be doing thorough comparisons. Pioneer Woman might still be a contender. For now, my Pioneer Woman kitchen takeover is on pause.
However, I still harbor a strong desire to visit The Mercantile. If I ever make it there, I’ll definitely be seeking a practical souvenir! Who’s with me?
How has brand loyalty influenced your kitchen?
