Bo-Tiki

Friends invited me to the west coast for the weekend. One of the many activities was going to Gulfport. I love shopping areas like this-​artsy, colorful, and unique. We visited several stores and Bo-​Tiki was a favorite. I will admit-​the first time we passed it buy. We thought it was only women’s clothing. Then we were next store and saw some interesting things in the window and went in. We were greeted immediately and offered refreshments. If I had chosen to, I could have taken some refreshment and sit outside on the porch in colorful chairs and hang out for a bit. I just wanted to look at everything! This store is filled with all kinds of unique items: beautiful embellished and painted purses, many styles of jewelry, unique colorful yard and home décor. The clothing is varied in a beautiful range of colors and styles. Whether you like whimsy or classic-​this store will not disappoint. My favorite was the aluminum jewelry-​probably because I make it as well-​it is beautiful to wear but very light. This artist’s work was the best I have seen. I am glad I got to go there twice in the two days. I am anxious to come back again and see what new surprises they will have! If you want to get something unusual for yourself or get a one of a kind gift-​consider Bo-​Tiki!

While in Gulfport March, 2013 I bought an artisan-​made necklace at Bo-​Tiki. I wore it that night and, because of an anomaly in how it was made, the pendant fell off somewhere over the course of the evening. I got home to find only the neck wire around my neck.
After I returned home, I mulled over my disappointment and phoned the store to see if they’d replace the item. They offered half off a replacement and I would have to pay the shipping. Not mollified, I contacted the designer,
. Lo and behold, he sent me a replacement pendant.
Bravo Jay! He had nothing to gain from helping me. Meanwhile the owner of Bo-​Tiki failed her opportunity to practice outstanding customer service. I’d have made it a point to shop in her store on my next visit. Instead I am sharing my disappointment with all who’ll listen.

Gulfport funk and spirit continues to shine through its businesses like Bo-​Tiki. A great selection of odds and ends ranging from whimsical garden signs to hand crafted jewelry to bawdy greeting cards. Staff is super friendly and willing to serve you an adult beverage as your browse. Its great for finding something cute on a budget or something with a real wow factor if you have the extra dough to burn. Check it out if visiting weird and wild Gulfport.

Downtown Gulfport, Florida is like the beach version of Ann Arbor, Michigan. It is artistic and beautiful. And this place has a few neat things. Staff is very nice. They have these neat little pieces of magnetic jewelry. Also neat little pads that hang on outdoor chairs for your head. The merchandise is a bit over priced. The shop is owned by the same people that own O’Maddy’s bar and grill. Bo-​Tiki holds itself out as a women’s store. They could go unisex and lower their prices and then they met deserve a 4 star. But for now just a 3 star. But downtown Gulfport is a cute little paradise tucked away in Southwest St. Pete /​Pinellas. You should totally check out the town. But when you do, it won’t be the end of the world if you miss Bo-​Tiki.