Boo Vake has been trading in Perth for twenty-five years. So what does 'Boo Vake' mean? The answer is pretty simple and a bit lovely. It's a phonetic way of saying 'Little Shop' in Scots Gaelic (Bùth Bheag). So, if on reading this post's title you said "Boo Vake?" out loud, then you just spoke a little bit of Gaelic.

For the first four years, Boo Vake was at Craigie Cross (near the railway), The location offered them a bit of space to make their creations and build their business. During that time they took on a bit of commissioned work. Boo Vake was tasked with creating a selection of life-sized papier-mâché animals for a local restaurant. Unfortunately, not all of the animals were needed. This left them with more than a few giant (in some cases life-sized or even bigger) papier-mâché animals. These were available in their shop for a while but in the end they sold their last life-sized crocodile.

In 1997 they moved to their current location at 5 Watergate. Their initial stock consisted mainly of refurbished furniture. However, as time moved on they began to develop relationships with other artists and designers and Boo Vake's stock diversified as a result. Initially, products in the shop came exclusively from local artists, from here they came to incorporate work from artist throughout Scotland. Now their range includes work from throughout the UK and it's a superb treasure-trove of gift ideas and pieces that add something beautiful into your home.

Boo Vake has a wonderfully relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where you can feel at home, taking a moment to enjoy some truly lovely pieces of art. It's a breath of fresh air and a perfect 'little shop'.

Rewarded for buying lovely things?

Not only can you enjoy your time shopping at Boo Vake, but you can shop, safe in the knowledge that you're being rewarded for every pound you spend there (that is, if you're fully registered for Mi Rewards). Mi Rewards is Perth's new city-wide rewards programme. Members get points, perks, and prize draw entries simply for supporting local businesses.

Arlene Baird (owner of Boo Vake) had this to say about Mi Rewards: "We hope that Mi Rewards will offer Perth shoppers a gentle reminder to try looking close to home before going further afield. You could be surprised at what’s right here on your doorstep."

Sign-up is easy (and free), simply click this link to join today. Don't forget to register your cards, your membership won't be active until you do, and (more importantly) you won't be able to enjoy the rewards of being a full member. Then, next time you're buying something lovely in Boo Vake don't forget to use your registered card to collect your points.