A new chapter for Irish culture in St. Paul is set to begin with the opening of Moloney’s Irish Imports on November 8, 2025. Established by former employee Emma Crawford and her husband James Berget, the store will occupy the former location of Irish on Grand, which closed earlier this year after serving the community for 35 years.
Crawford, who has longstanding ties to the original shop, expressed her excitement about continuing its legacy. “When Irish on Grand closed, we thought it was the end,” she said. The shop, located at 1124 Grand Avenue, was beloved for its Irish goods, including Winston’s sausages, dance shoes, Claddagh rings, and Belleek dishware.
The decision to close Irish on Grand was made by owners Maeve O’Mara and Liam O’Neill, who wished to focus on family and travel. This closure left a gap in the community, which Crawford and Berget aim to fill with their new store. “We decided to try and open our own store,” Crawford recounted, reflecting on the journey that led them to this moment.
Revamping a Beloved Space
In their efforts to make the store their own, Crawford and Berget have sourced fresh products and engaged new vendors while preserving the essence of the original shop. The couple has revamped the main floor to create a spacious checkout area, ensuring that the experience remains inviting for customers. “I’ve had a lot of fun sourcing smaller designers, makers, and artists,” Crawford noted, highlighting new items like peat candles from Dalkey Aromatics and stationery from Rachel Corcoran, a Dublin-based illustrator.
The couple’s commitment extends beyond sourcing unique products; they aim to retain the historical charm of the space. During renovations, Berget discovered burn marks in the wood of the pantry shelving, remnants from the store’s past. Instead of covering these scars, they opted to leave them exposed, believing it adds to the character of the building.
The couple secured funding through a combination of personal savings, family support, and a loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The 115-year-old building was purchased for just under $650,000, according to state records listing the buyer as Two Cottages LLC.
A Personal Legacy
The store’s name, Moloney’s Irish Imports, pays tribute to Crawford’s mother, Nanette Moloney, who emigrated from Ireland. Nanette expressed her delight upon learning of the store’s name, emphasizing the personal significance it holds for their family. Having lived in Minnesota for four decades, she has maintained a close friendship with O’Mara and O’Neill, who were present at her wedding.
Crawford feels a sense of responsibility to honor the legacy of Irish on Grand. “We’re not going to fill the hole exactly, but we’re hoping it will be as welcoming as they were,” she stated. She looks forward to meeting fellow expatriates and creating a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a taste of home.
As they prepare for the grand opening, Crawford and Berget are mindful of the current economic climate and its impact on retail. While navigating complexities related to tariffs on imported goods, they have adopted a strategic approach to inventory management. “We think we have it sort of figured out until something changes again,” Crawford explained, referencing the adjustments they’ve made in response to changing import costs.
Despite facing challenges, the couple remains optimistic about their venture. With plans to expand their inventory and potentially include a nursery in the store, they aim to create a space that reflects their passion for Irish culture while meeting the needs of the community.
As the new store prepares to open its doors, local sentiment is positive. Holly Weinkauf, president of the Grand Avenue Business Association, remarked on the excitement surrounding the opening, noting that “people are thrilled” to see a new Irish store revive a cherished tradition.
The couple is eager to welcome customers and share their vision for Moloney’s Irish Imports. “We are hoping to provide a little piece of home for those who come in,” Crawford said, as she looks forward to connecting with the community through this new endeavor.
