Ellen Jones loves to share her love for things Irish. On a visit to her store, she said, "You see the phrase 'Céad Míle Fáilte' (pronounced kay-ed meel-ah fall-cheh) all over Ireland. This Irish language phrase means '100,000 Welcomes' and embodies the hospitality and generosity of the Irish people.

For those who have visited Ireland, or have Irish blood, or for all who simply appreciate Irish culture and crafts, Middleburg's own source is a store on Washington Street called The Irish Collection.

Manager Molly Musso will help you find what you're looking for in the treasure trove of Irish gifts, books & CD's, handcut crystal, modern and antique shamrock porcelain, jewelry, linens, clothing, sculptures, and art.

The Irish Collection offers a selection not often seen. Ellen travels to Ireland 3 - 4 times a year to visit the cottage factories where craftspeople make the items by hand. She started 30 years ago in Occoquan as a working artist and on a trip to Ireland fell in love with the country, the people, and their crafts. Her gallery gradually evolved into a retail store and in the past year she opened a little store on Fox Chase Farm just outside of Middleburg on Route 50; last July she opened her store in Middleburg proper.

The store has everything a bride wanting an authentic Celtic wedding could need; classic Celtic designed wedding and engagement rings, custom made jackets, decorations, and even kilts and accessories (for rent or purchase) for the groom and groomsmen.

As for clothing, handmade Irish fisherman sweaters, custom made woolen jackets and capes, and a wide variety of Irish riding apparel fill the back room of the store. "I love to ride myself, and in the future will add more Irish-made items for horse people." says Ellen. "I've always loved the town of Middleburg and am very happy to be here. I'm a former history teacher and think the town could use a little more 'Irish'!"