Emma Paterson

There's nothing quite like getting kilted up for a special occasion. Whether it's a wedding, graudation, prom or a ceilidh - we Scots like to look the part.

And when you're like me - who always leaves it to the last minute to make sure he has everything he needs for the big day - then you rely on businesses like Strathearn Kilt Hire to have you covered!

Emma Paterson runs Strathearn Kilt Hire with ever dad, and has helped me out on more than one occasion! The well established family business is based on North Methven Street and they have a wide range of tartans available to hire, whatever the occasion.

We caught up with Emma to find out more about the family business and how she spends her spare time away from the tartan and sporrans!

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

Where do I start? My day will usually consist of checking emails, giving advice on style and colour schemes, measuring people up for hires and doing paperwork. I like to escape to Dunkeld or Crieff for a day out, or shop at Perth's Indies who always offer great customer service. I’m responsible for ordering in the stock, steaming jackets and pressing kilts, making sure the display is looking nice and a lot of other things – the list goes on and on!

What signals the start of your weekend / days off?

The final light being switched off and the sound of the key turning the lock – it’s more than a full-time job when you’re self-employed! When it comes to going out for a bite to eat, I love going to Mae Ping - it's excellent! I also like Duo, The Venue and Everest Inn.

When I get the chance, I like to escape to Dunkeld or Crieff for a day out, or shop at Perth's Indies who always offer great customer service. Other than that, you'll probably find me in the gym or having a stroll around the Inch!

Top of your bucket list?

To find some more free time for myself to go off and travel and explore! Or just to have five minutes to myself!

Worst job you’ve ever had?

Working in a shoe shop – dealing with feet all day doesn’t rank too highly in my list of previous jobs!

Who or what inspires you?

My old dad, also known as John the Kiltman! He started the business later in life after taking early retirement and at 73, he isn’t ready to retire (again) anytime soon!

Tell us about the weekend you’d love to live again?

Any that have involved a day at the races! I love the horses and the atmosphere and it’s always a great day out with good company and a glass of fizz.

What’s the best part about your job?

Hearing all of the positive comments from our customers is really nice. .
Just to be a small part of people’s special occasions – whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, prom or graduation – is a pleasure. All of the hard-work and attention to detail is rewarding.

What’s in the perfect day off breakfast?

Coffee and eggs!

Complete this sentence; The best things in life are….

Spent with family! Being a parent is rewarding, draining, hard, chaotic and fun, to list just a few things! However, I wouldn’t change my son or daughter – now both teenagers – for the world. I also think it’s important in life to stay healthy and be happy.

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To find out more about Strathearn Kilt Hire, visit their website or Facebook page, or browse some of their photos on Instagram.