Are you a saver or a spender?
A bit of both. I always like to save for consecutive months in a row and then tend to go on a spree and spend. Life is for enjoying, but it is definitely about finding the right balance.
Do you shop around for better value?
Yes, of course, I love a good bargain. As the old saying goes – buy cheap buy twice, so it’s important to remember quality over quantity.
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
My house. It cost me everything I owned – and more at the time – but it’s safe to say it was the greatest investment of my life.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
My Prada bag. It cost €1,500 from Brown Thomas, but it is real leather and will last a lifetime. It seemed like bonkers money at the time, but it will and has always stood against the test of time, with make-up, coffee spill, etc. It has remained immaculate.
How do you prefer to shop – online or local?
Local, I always like to give local shops my business, I live around the corner from a Supervalu, and I love the staff there: they drive me back every time. It gives me a sense of community while supporting local business.
Do you haggle over prices?
No, if a price is set, I am always willing to pay it. Haggling is the type of thing you would see on a beach in Spain, and fortunately it’s not my style.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
Yes, it forced many of us to learn to control and manage our spending. Thankfully, now that the economy has picked up, it’s great to see people, young and old, out spending again.
Do you invest in shares?
A little bit here and there.
Cash or card?
Card – I never usually tend to carry cash around unless it’s the odd €1 for the trolley in the local grocery store. Card is just so handy, and you also have a paper trail of where your money is going and what you are spending it on. That certainly isn’t the case with cash.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
A top in Zara in Gatwick duty free – cheaper than the high street. Again, showing how I love a good deal!
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes, I have done so on many occasions. There is honestly nothing more rewarding when you have reached your target and you can consciously spend knowing you have saved hard. Usually, it’s guilt free.
Have you ever lost money?
Yes – like everything in life, you win some and you lose some, but you can never let it get you down. The show goes on and you have to get on with it.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
Not at all. It’s not something I have ever got into, I must say, and I genuinely don’t see the appeal in it. Even if I won a surprise trip to Las Vegas, it’s safe to say I would still have no interest in it.
Is money important to you?
Yes, absolutely. Every €10, €20 and €50 counts. As the saying goes: look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves.
How much money do you have on you now?
Nothing – just my credit card.
Talking to Tony Clayton-Lea
