For more than twenty years, The Design Gallery has been one of Drogheda’s most cherished destinations for beautiful gifting, Irish craft and thoughtful design. Owned and run by Lelia Doolan, the store sits proudly at Laurence Gate inside a stunning pre-1900 listed building, full of charm, character and the kind of atmosphere that makes customers slow down and really enjoy the experience.
Lelia opened The Design Gallery in May 2003, and she has guided it through every shift in retail since. “We have embraced the changing face of retail that has evolved over the years,” she said. “The building itself is steeped in history and it sits beautifully in harmony with all of our wonderful giftware.”
The Design Gallery specialises in design-led giftware with a strong emphasis on innovative, authentic and high-quality Irish craft. Bestselling brands include Newbridge Silverware, Tipperary Crystal, Belleek Pottery, Galway Crystal, Nicholas Mosse, Jellycat, Absolute Jewellery, Pilgrim, Knight & Day, Envy and Equilibrium. Lelia is deeply committed to championing Irish beauty and wellness too, with ranges such as The Handmade Soap Company, Esker Fields, Irish Botanicals, Brooke and Shoals and La Bougie Candles.
“We carefully select every product with our customers in mind,” Lelia said. “Children and baby gifts are really important to us too and Jellycat is always a favourite. We also showcase a beautiful range of scarves and accessories.”
Presentation is at the heart of the shop. “Every purchase, no matter how small, is lovingly gift wrapped. Even our gift vouchers. It keeps people coming back because it makes gifting feel special.”
Under Lelia’s leadership, the store continually evolves. Her team visits trade shows at home and abroad to keep the collection fresh and exclusive. The shop was awarded Best Shop Front in 2024 and Best Customer Focus in 2025 by Drogheda and District Chamber, “We were absolutely thrilled,” she said.
When the pandemic hit, Lelia and the team moved fast. “Throughout Covid we stayed in touch with our customers. Our doors were closed but we were very much open for business.” They placed signs in the windows inviting customers to video call, chat or book private appointments. They delivered all over the local area free of charge. “It resulted in long lasting relationships with our wonderful customers.”
They also launched their online store during the first lockdown, sourced new wellness ranges and supported local makers, including a nurse and an NCAD student who created fashionable masks that were hugely popular. “Going from a face-to-face bricks and mortar business to online in such a short time was a huge achievement.”
Lelia also invested in the future through digital marketing courses, retail programmes and membership in Retail Powerhouse. “It keeps us very focused,” she said. Joining the Drogheda and District Chamber and signing up to the Love Drogheda Gift Card also strengthened their ties to the town.
She is proud of the impact small retailers have. “Eighty five percent of retailers in Ireland employ fewer than ten people. That makes a small company like ours feel hugely important, which is humbling.”
In-store, the atmosphere is joyful and genuine. “I still love coming into work every day. We have wonderful loyal customers.” Lelia works alongside Nora, who has been with her almost twenty years, and Terri, who joined five years ago. “We have great fun together. There is a lovely bond between retailers in Drogheda too. We share our highs and lows.”
Her favourite products include Nicholas Mosse, Jellycat, and the jewellery and accessories ranges. Jellycat remains the bestseller. The Design Gallery also gives back regularly by supporting local schools and clubs. “They support us so well, so we love supporting them.”
When asked what she loves most about Drogheda, Lelia smiles. “The people.”
Looking ahead, she keeps her goals focused. “We want to stay connected with our customers and grow our following. We are thrilled to see our online presence continue to grow and we will keep working to present the most beautiful products for customers near and far. We are looking to the future and staying positive.”
And if The Design Gallery could be summed up in four words, Lelia already has her answer.
“Gift Wrapping Our Pleasure.”
