When longtime Maspeth resident Liz Kenny heard that Celtic Gifts and Treasures at 72-17 Grand Avenue was going to be closing its doors, she decided to step in and take ownership of the business.
“I work next door as a hairdresser and this is such a special place. I didn’t want to see an Irish store right next door closing,” Kenny said. “It’s got a great location and it’s the only store like it in Queens. There’s one in Riverdale and one in the Bronx; this is the last one so it can’t close.”
Ann Wenz, who has been an employee in the company for fifteen years, said that the shop originally was located on Metropolitan Avenue before Nancy Karrane bought the company and moved it to Grand Avenue.
Kerrane passed away in 2008, and the store continued to thrive under the ownership of Cerri Batur, but when Batur said she was ready to let go of the business, Wenz was not sure exactly what she was going to do, so she went to the salon next door to dish with her friend Liz and said to her, “After 15 years what am I going to do?”
“I think Liz felt sorry for me,” Wenz said, “because later in the day she comes and says I think I found someone for the business. I said, ‘who?’ And she said, ‘me.’”
Wenz said she was “delighted” by the news that she wouldn’t have to look for another job.
“I love doing what I do. I love coming to work,” Wenz said. “It’s a pleasure to open the door it’s so bright and airy.”
The shop is a trove of high quality gifts, including crystal ware from Galway and Waterford, jewelry, clothing for men and women and Christmas accessories to name a few, with most of the merchandise shipped from Ireland.
On Sunday, December 7, Kenny continued a tradition started in its opening year, hosting the annual Christmas Open House that was attended by dozens of local supporters.
Kenny said that while the holiday season is one of particular importance to the shop, business generally remains steady throughout the year with customers seeking gifts to commemorate birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.
As a show of support, Danielle Broggy of Danielle’s Dandys, and Elsa B. Bakery provided treats for the event.
That’s so great! I lived in Maspeth for 5 years, that place is so cute! I know Liz well, as I was a frequent customer at the hair salon next door. It’s just in her nature to be such a good person and take over the business. Much luck to you Liz!!
do you have a catalog