Kitchen

[Tigriss]

[Eileen in Virginia]

Since she isn't a baker, I'd recommend the Artisan. I bake from scratch, have had the Artisan for @ 15 years and it's been fine for me. I usually bake in single batches, so I haven't had a problem with the amount of batter or dough fitting in the bowl. In addition to the standard mixing bowl that comes with the Artisan, I'd suggest getting an extra bowl with a handle on the side. This comes in very handy when you've got a cake batter that you need to pour into the baking pan or if you just need another mixing bowl. Regardless of the type of Kitchen Aid mixer you buy, check out prices at Tuesday Morning (if you have them near you). If they have them in stock, they've usually got much better prices than other vendors.

[Brooklynny]

I have the Artisan, as well, and I love it.  It does what I need it to do...pizza dough, baking, etc.  It also fits perfectly under my kitchen cabinet so I can leave it out and admire it...lol...so keep in mind that the Pro models are quite tall.  The Pro wouldn't fit on my countertop even if I wanted one.

[DottieBlue]

I also bought the Artisan model from Macy's just a few months ago.  I bought that model because it fits under my cabinet on my kitchen counter.  I also got the stainless steel bowl rather than the glass bowl, as the SS bowl will never break.  I chose the almond color because I know these mixers last many, many years and this color will always go with whatever color scheme my kitchen will be. 

I would also recommend getting a "gift receipt" so she could easly exchange it for another color, or perhaps another model.

But lucky her - you are giving her an absolutely wonderful gift!

Edited to add:  Before I bought mine, I did some online research to compare the models - if you search "Kitchen Aid stand mixers" you can find the info on each model and the prices to compare.  But I do think the Artisan model is a good, basic machine for everyday, average home use.

[Nataliesgramma]

Unless she plans on being a big baker......The Artisan will be good for her. It is still a great mixer!

[Campion]

Definitely you'll want the Artisan series in pink. While the lift bowl is better for bread, the Artisan is the one most women want on the counter, and for quick jobs (mashed potatoes, cakes, cookies) it's great. Unless you know your recipient is a mad baker and does loads of bread, this is a great choice. 

There are two pinks:

One is the Susan B. Komen Pink and part of the cost goes to the foundation, the other is a deep pink called Cranberry:

[hellokitty]

I have a pro model that lifts and have had it for close to 10 years.  I thought at one time I wanted a tilt head but this serves my needs.  I would definiately recommend the flex edge beater as an extra gift if your mixer doesn't come with one.  Those are awesome.

[Autumn in NY]

Thanks so much for the excellent info! I think I will go with the Artisan in the Susan Komen pink. I purchased a pretty pink apron to match the mixer,too. Excited for her to get it.

[Pooky1]

i have the ka tilt  model and im dying for qvc to have a good deal on the bowl lift model. it holds alot more and is allmost double more powerful than the standard tilt models.

[tartlets]

I am a cake decorater. Had about 6 different KA Mixers. My favorite is the tilt head and I'll tell you why! When making icing or whipping cream, you can easily lift the head and scrape off the beater blade or whisk, or even scoop out some icing with out the blade or whisk getting in you way like the lift type bowl. The 5 quart bowl is perfect for somebody just starting out. The only thing is that the Lift Bowl types come in larger bowl sizes. The Tilt Head only comes in 4.5 quart and 5 quart. I also have a 7 quart Kenwood and 7 quart  

 Cuisinart and the 8 quart KA Professional model. So I have had my share of different types to tell you what my favorite is. I hope this helps you decide.What ever you choose, they will be thrilled to recieve this as a gift.