Are you a saver or a spender?
A saver, although there have been a few rainy days recently!
Do you shop around for better value?
Yes. I feel disgruntled if I have to pay more for something than I think it’s worth. There is great value to be found out there, especially with Irish produce and brands.
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
It would have to be flying to Paris for one night with my wife to enjoy a meal in L’Atelier du Joel Robuchon. It was worth every penny. The meal alone was over €350!
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
It has to be my MacBook. I use it for almost everything. It’s my portable office.
What ways do you prefer to shop – online or local?
If I am shopping for the restaurant, it’s always local – I usually stay in Dublin 2. I love walking around Dublin city centre as it’s a great way to switch off and take in the great atmosphere around.
Do you haggle over prices?
Yes. People are now really open to negotiation. That said, I’m a sucker for a good story behind a product and often try to get a good deal but end up paying full price.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
Yes and no. I have never been someone who spends on a whim. What has changed is my commitment to find a better deal. Good quality at affordable prices is music to my ears.
Do you invest in shares?
Not to date, but I have started studying the upcoming IPOs as I hope to begin a small portfolio. Next year I want to invest in something exciting, but more importantly in the trailblazer who is behind it.
Cash or card?
Cash, as I like to know how much I’m going to spend and exactly how much I have. That said, I bank with AIB, and their new pending online balance makes it much easier to see what I’m using in real time.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
I bought a pair of runners at the end of the summer sales. I thought they were great value for money until I saw my wife’s reaction to their rather loud colour.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes. My first quality car was on my radar for years. It took me almost three years to achieve it and made me love it so much more. You appreciate things more when you save with a plan in mind.
Have you ever lost money?
No, not since I was a child. I would save up for months, have £20 to buy a Star Wars figure that was £5 and refuse to take the change. I had what I wanted, no interest in the money.
Is money important to you?
On a purely practical level, yes it is. On the wider scheme of things not in the slightest – it’s simply a tool I require day-to-day. It’s not a gauge of success for me.
