Dame Emily Naper, Director, Loughcrew Opera Festival

Are you a saver or a spender?

A saver, although I splash out on exotic plants and statues for Loughcrew Gardens.

Do you shop around for better value?

Definitely, I get a bigger kick out of hunting around for a bargain than buying the first thing I see.

What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?

Pebbles, my pedigree shih-tzu. I’m a bit embarrassed to say what she cost – it was in the high three figures, and a fortune for the vet.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

A very old Land Rover that has lasted a lifetime riding roughshod through the Loughcrew parkland and clearing it for the forest walk.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

All the time. Just about everything’s less expensive, apart from the petrol and diesel at the minute.

Do you haggle over prices?

Yes – I buy a lot of antiques and vintage clothes, and the dealers are always open to a bit of haggling.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?

Yes, I don’t get my hair done very often, and I haven’t changed the car for four years.

Do you invest in shares?

I dabble a little but prefer to invest in expanding the business, Loughcrew House and Gardens, and the adventure course.

Cash or card?

Both.

What was the last thing you bought and was it value for money?

A pair of designer shoes in a sale, down from €350 to €60. Great value for money!

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

I have to save like crazy every year to pay for our garden opera!

Have you ever lost money?

Yes, a lot, but for legal reasons I can’t go into it.

Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?

I don’t bet on horses or anything, but business is always a gamble.

Is money important to you?

Yes, but health and happiness are more important.

How much money have you on you now?

€20.

Loughcrew Opera Festival runs from July 20th to 21st; see loughcrew.com/opera.html