Lala Kent uses this intelligent beverage maker instead of a coffee machine in the morning – her 'essential' is already reduced for Black Friday
Exclusive: The Vanderpump Rules personality sat down with H&G to shine a light on her new must-have appliance – it's a must-have for small kitchens


Some people opt for coffee in the morning, while others have an affinity for protein smoothies. For Lala Kent, a dirty soda is her choice of morning brew, so it's only natural that she has a soda maker at home for her early A.M. concoctions. Kent's go-to? Ninja's Thirsti Still and Carbonated Water Maker, which is a best seller for a reason.
The Vanderpump Rules star made her love for this appliace official via a partnership with Ninja, who just launched their new ZERO SODA Flavor Drops – the new must-have addition for anyone who, like Kent, swears by their Ninja.
Rather than purchasing single-serve sodas, the Thirsti allows you to create your own blends at home – and with 25 flavor options, you can shake up your routine with a different-tasting beverage every morning.
'I'm obsessed with my Ninja Thirsti!' Kent shared in an exclusive interview with H&G. 'It was the perfect partnership because of my obsession with sparkling water. Then you add on the flavor drops – you can really customize any beverage from the amount of flavor to the amount of bubbles. And I feel like it's a must-have in all households; it's the perfect gift.' Plus, we're in luck. Her go-to is among some of the best black Friday Ninja deals already available (yes, ahead of the big day). You can shop via Amazon below.
Ninja Thirsti Sparking Drink Maker | Was $179.99, now $129.95 at Amazon
It's easy to see why Lala Kent starts her morning (and finishes her day) with this appliance. It offers three carbonation levels – adaptable for whether you're in a still or sparkling mood. It promises to offer something that you won’t find in stores, all from the comfort of your home.
Kent explains that she uses the machine from day to night, with plenty of options for different moods and times of the day. 'When they came out with the ZERO SODA Flavored Water Drops is when my world really got rocked,' she says. 'I am officially obsessed to a new level like I'm the girl who likes making a dirty soda. Having my Dr. Thirsti in the morning and then having a nightcap later on as well.'
The modern and compact appearance of the Ninja, which comes with a water reservoir, is another highlight for Kent, who says that the model suits small kitchens.
'For me, the Ninja Thirsti is already very sleek, and it looks fabulous on any kitchen countertop, so if you have limited counter space – I would say it’s the perfect size,' she explains. 'Also, since you would use it every day it's worth having that be the main on your countertop and everything else off – so you have your Ninja Luxe Café, then you have your Ninja Thirsti. Things like a toaster can go in a drawer or cabinet. Keep items you use every day on display.'
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She continues, 'I first focus on the aesthetic of all things, and for me, I like convenience. I need it to be functional but also pretty. So, I like to put things on the countertop that I'm using throughout the day.'
The Thirsti comes in customizable bundle options, so you can select a combination of flavor drops that suit your preferences.
This aside, our appliance editor handpicked these Ninja deals that are worth the investment this Black Friday. You can get ahead of the crowd now.
Ninja 4QT Air Fryer | Was $89, now $59 at Walmart
Another small kitchen savior, this air fryer is compact enough to work in every kind of home – but its small size equates to big power. Our tester loved its speedy cooking and max crisp mode. (Plus, the Instant 4Qt, also available at Walmart,).
Ninja Creami Original | Was $169, now $149 at Walmart
Every Thirsti lover deserves a Cremi. This TikTok famous piece is among the most talked about appliances of 2024, and it's currently at its lowest price.
Ninja Blast Personal Blender | Was $59.99, now $49.99 at Amazon
Our professional testers say this is one of the best personal blenders on the market. It's the perfect size for taking on your commute and boasts a surprising amount of power for its petite capacity too.

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.
Her love of film is rivaled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.
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