2025 Finalists - Onneke
Onneke, a brand known for its eco-friendly, hand-illustrated cards and gifts, is proudly celebrating its finalist spot in the prestigious Gift of the Year awards. This year, Onneke's unique Logbooks have captured the attention of judges in the Cards, Wrap & Stationery category, showcasing the brand's dedication to thoughtful design and quality. We caught up with Onneke's founder to learn more about their journey, the inspiration behind the Logbooks, and how being recognised as a finalist is shaping their future.
Company Name: Onneke
Product(s) in the Finalist: The Logbooks
Congratulations on being a finalist! How does it feel to be recognised in this year’s Gift of the Year awards?
Being shortlisted for the Gift of the Year award was an incredible experience in itself - a whirlwind of excitement as so many people showed interest in stocking my brand. I loved every moment of it and didn’t want it to end, so becoming a finalist was truly a dream come true.
I poured my heart and soul into creating the logbooks, from illustrating the covers and crafting each unique design to sourcing the most eco-friendly printing solution. They have been a true labour of love, and seeing them flourish while being recognised by the Gift of the Year has been nothing short of amazing.
Can you tell us a little about your brand and the inspiration behind your successful product?
I am an illustrator and designer and I create eco friendly and high-quality cards, prints and gifts that sell in shops, visitor centres and museums around the UK. I draw mostly landscapes and coastal scenes and try to bring my love of nature to each design. The logbooks were designed for those who, like me, love the outdoors and savour life at a gentler pace. In a world dominated by screens, the logbooks invite you to slow down and capture moments the old-fashioned way - by jotting down a few lines, turning them into cherished keepsakes over time.
What makes your product special, and why do you think it stood out to the judges?
The logbooks are beautifully designed A5 notebooks with thoughtful writing prompts, but they offer something extra - a small envelope and card for adding a personal message. Plus, they’re designed to stay just under the weight limit for a standard letter stamp, making them the perfect letterbox gift at just £7.95. With the price of stamps being so high at the moment and cards being quite expensive too, people like being able to send something special.
While they make a wonderful present, I’ve seen firsthand in my own gift shop (which is connected to my studio) that people love buying them for themselves too. I put a lot of time into getting the price point just right, and I hope the illustration and design add that special touch.
Who is your product designed for, and what kind of reaction have you had from customers so far?
I originally designed the logbooks for people who love spending time outdoors, starting with the Wild Swimming and Walking logbooks. They took off immediately, selling quickly through my shop, online, and wholesale channels. I had estimated the first batch would last 6 to 12 months, but I had to reorder after just four weeks.
Since launching the logbooks, I’ve gained many new stockists, with a high number of shops placing repeat orders. As the collection grew, I introduced Mindfulness and Travel logbooks, which were also incredibly well received. What began as a series for outdoor enthusiasts naturally evolved into a way to encourage people to slow down and enjoy their favorite activities. The Reading logbook, released just before Christmas, was an instant hit, and now I’m preparing to launch the sixth -and possibly final - logbook in the series, designed especially for gardeners.
What trends or themes do you think are shaping the gifting industry right now?
In my own illustration work I try to stick to my own style, but I believe - or at least hope - that people value authenticity in the products they choose. To me, that means original illustrations, thoughtful design, and more handmade elements. It also means prioritising eco-friendly production methods, materials, and packaging as much as possible. The high street should be a place that feels fresh, original, and inspiring.
In the last year I have loved the "dopamine colour" trend and I hope it sticks around for a bit longer. When the world feels like a dark place, adding colour and creating products that are kind to the planet is the least we can do as designers.
How has being shortlisted, and nowbeing a finalist impacted your brand so far, and what do you hope to achieve from the awards?
Being shortlisted and making it to the finals of the Gift of the Year awards has been an incredible experience. The logbooks have strengthened the wholesale side of my business, and in a time of rising costs, I’m especially grateful for that.
I work with a small team, and since we handle all the packing in-house, there’s always plenty to do - so the extra exposure has been invaluable. This year, I have a few dream stockists on my wish list, and I’m hoping the recognition from Gift of the Year will show them that Onneke cards, prints, and logbooks truly deserve a place on their shelves!
What exciting plans do you have for the future?
I always have more ideas than time! I bring out a beautifully illustrated calendar every year, and finishing the calendar for 2026 is the first thing on my to-do list. Beyond that, I’m planning to add more stationery items to my wholesale collection and illustrate more Onneke cards - always with the idea to inspire you to go outside and enjoy the world around you.
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received (or given), and why?
My husband recently bought me a handpan drum and it's without a doubt the most beautiful gift I ever received. I love the sound of the handpan and have always wanted to learn to play one. It was a very thoughtful but also completely unexpected gift which added to the joy of receiving it.
Onneke’s success as a Gift of the Year finalist highlights their commitment to quality and creativity. The Logbooks are a perfect example of their thoughtful design, encouraging people to slow down and cherish life’s moments. With exciting plans ahead, Onneke is a brand to watch for anyone seeking meaningful gifts.
