Business Q&A: Lynbrook Irish Shop

What started as a website has become a full fledged storefront operation for the on Hendrickson Avenue.

After moving to Lynbrook two years ago, owner first thought the location would act as a home base for her online jewelry company, theirishjewlrycompany.com. Shortly thereafter, she decided to branch out and sell a variety of Irish food, jewelry, and gifts.

Here, Derrig describes how her shop gives Lynbrook residents a taste of Ireland.

What does your shop offer?

We offer a nice selection of Irish foods. We have a real neighborhood atmosphere and are all really friendly. We’re all a bunch of moms that work here. We offer quality Irish goods. We try to stay away from the novelty stuff and buy stuff that’s really made in Ireland or made in America by Irish-American craftsman and artists.

What are some of your more popular items?

It depends on the time of year. Around Communion season, we sell dresses and they fly out the door. Christmas time, it would definitely be food and the woolens (wool blankets, sweaters). When (it) gets closer to Valentines and Mothers Day, it’s the collection of jewelry from our internet business.

What is your busiest time of year?

That would be Christmas. Hands down.

How has the business changed since you moved in?

Since 2006, we’ve had a steady increase in business. 2011 was our roughest year, even tougher than 2008. We did really well in ’08 and ’09. Last year was our toughest year.

What kind of food do you sell?

We sell bangers (sausage) and rashers (Irish bacon), Irish white bread, brown bread, and candy. The candy is really big with the kids.

The Lynbrook Irish Shop is located at 144 Hendrickson Ave. For more information, please visit their website and follow them on Facebook. Derrig also rents a cottage in “County Mayo in the West of Ireland.” Information can be found on peacefulcottagerental.com.