- Next Fair Dates
- Sunday, 14th - Monday, 15th June 2026
Design by Leonard (DBL) has become a household name in the New Zealand Gift Industry.
Stemming from a lifelong passion for sketching, experimenting, and what founder and designer Leonard Lim refers to as the joy of making; his products can be found in stores and homes throughout Aotearoa.
Known for his bold designs and vibrant colours, Design by Leonard’s product range is unmistakable. Often finding inspiration from patterns in our natural Kiwi landscape, his bright, balanced, and optimistic designs embody a sense of place and have proven popular with souvenir-seeking tourists and local homemakers alike.
Evoking emotion, feel-good memories and genuine connection are three guiding principles behind every DBL product. From initial concept to the final finish, Leonard’s obsessing over proportions, textures, and how a product feels in your hand and home is key to his success. The result is a collection that is warm, with confident designs that don’t need to ‘shout’ to be noticed.
As a NZ Gift & Homeware Fair exhibitor for over a decade, DBL’s success at the fairs can also be attributed to Leonard’s commitment to creating personal business connections.
"Beyond the products themselves, I prioritise relationships—working closely and respectfully with suppliers, stockists, and customers. To me, a genuine connection is just as important as the final design."
Since his first exhibition debut, the brand has grown steadily and now holds over 150 stockists across New Zealand. 70% of which were a result a of a lead acquired at the NZ Gift & Homeware Fairs. This past Spring Gift Fair alone accounted for 20% of DBL’s orders for the season. While in-fair orders are an important metric for his success at the fair, he reminds us that the follow up period is just as important;
“Most retailers take time after the Gift Fairs to review new products ranges and place their orders later. That's why it’s very important to clearly present your concept and effectively communicate your new products during the Fair.”
At the 2025 Spring Gift Fair, DBL’s commitment to excellent design was not only evident in their product range, but also earned them Best Stand in the Best in Fair Awards.
"A strong stand design is incredibly important. It’s often the first impression retailers have of your brand, and it sets the tone before any conversation starts. A well-designed stand helps tell your story, draws people in naturally, and allows the products to shine without needing to over-explain."
Leonard believes that good stand design needs to have a strong visual identity, good lighting, and having enough space for products to be seen and touched. For emerging exhibitors looking to be successful at the fairs he further recommends being clear on your brand story, preparing well, and being open to conversations.
“Some of the most valuable insights come from genuine chats with retailers. Most importantly, be patient. Growth takes time, but consistency and authenticity really matter.”
Connecting with fellow exhibitors at the Gift Fairs have been another source of insight and inspiration for Leonard, further encouraging him to keep true to himself and his brand’s values.
“Seeing how fellow exhibitors present their work and stay true to their design identity has motivated me and reinforced the value of thoughtful, well-designed products. Each Fair has helped me gain confidence and clarity in both design direction and wholesale planning.”
Design by Leonard (DBL) offers a curated range of gift and lifestyle products that celebrate Aotearoa New Zealand. Their collection balances practicality with sentiment, featuring keepsakes designed to fit naturally into everyday life.
Whether you’re a traveller, a local, or a thoughtful gift-giver, their products are made to be loved, shared, and proudly gifted—a true celebration of Kiwi identity in contemporary form.
