Are you a saver or a spender?
A saver. My mum got us Henry the Hippo piggy banks when we were little and I have loved saving ever since. I bootstrapped my company Chupi as I was definitely brought up very debt averse.
Do you shop around for better value?
I love shopping around to find not just the best price but also the best thing for what I need. I would always rather pay a little more for something that will last longer.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
My diamond collection. I have bought myself something beautiful to mark all of the biggest moments in my life, from achieving a career goal in Chupi, to the birth of our daughter last year. It’s her first birthday shortly and I have my eye on a beautiful diamond eternity ring that will one day be hers.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
I always try to think sustainably when I purchase: do I need this? Is it going to last? Will it always be mine and, if not, what happens to it afterwards? It really helps ensure that I love what I buy. Right now, it’s a barbecue. Dinner cooked outdoors beside the lake is something to treasure.
What way do you prefer to shop – online or local?
Both. Online shopping is a complete game changer. It has made so many amazing tiny businesses global, so I shop locally, but online.
Do you haggle over prices?
It depends. I love a good haggle in an antique shop, but I try and pick my battles. I remember reading somewhere that good haggling is when both parties walk away happy.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
I always shop sustainably with an eye to quality; less is frequently more.
Do you invest in shares?
We bootstrapped our company, so I have always invested back into our business.
Cash or card?
Neither. I have my card set up on Apple Pay on my phone and it’s another game changer I love.
What was the last thing you bought, and was it good value for money?
We sold our house this summer and are renting before moving into our new home. We could have chosen an overpriced tiny Dublin house, but are instead renting a beautiful lakeside Georgian house with peacocks. It feels like such a good choice.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
I love a good spreadsheet. I try to plan my big purchases out for the year.
Have you ever lost money?
No, I’m pretty conservative when it comes to financial risk.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
My gosh, no. I bet in €1 increments; I hate wasting money on silly things.
Is money important to you?
Having enough money to take care of the people I love, and to do the things I love, is what truly matters to me.
How much money do you have on you now?
Nothing, I almost never have cash.
