'As I'm getting older, I'm now realising the importance of saving'

ME AND MY MONEY:Clodagh McKenna, chef, in conversation with TONY CLAYTON-LEA

Are you a saver or a spender?I wouldn't call myself a big spender, but what I like to do is invest in good quality purchases whether they are for my house or my wardrobe. As I'm getting older, I'm now realising the importance of saving.

Do you shop around for better value?I wish I had the time to shop around for value, but saying that, I have shops that I'm loyal to, that sell quality products. To me, quality is key to value.

What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?I'm not an extravagant shopper but one of the best purchases I've ever bought was a Gucci travel bag for €600. At the time, it seemed extravagant, but after six years of use I've gotten value for money.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?Anything vintage, because not only am I getting at a discounted price but I'm recycling clothes, and being eco friendly is very important to my lifestyle.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?No. I feel strongly about supporting local businesses and shops whenever possible.

Do you haggle over prices?Sometimes when I'm at a market and when I'm buying things in bulk.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?Absolutely. I really think a lot more before I spend money on anything – whether it be clothes or just going out.

Do you invest in shares?No, but it's something I'm thinking about at the moment.

Cash or card?Cash!

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?The last thing I bought was a really cool purple jumpsuit from Reiss in Dublin – it was half price!

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?My first television when I was a chef at Ballymaloe. I used to put away €25 a week to buy my television.

Have you ever lost money?The most I've ever lost is $25 in Las Vegas.

Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?I'm not a gambler when it comes to sport because I think that you work so hard for your money, and to risk losing it in that way just isn't worth it. I am, however, a risk taker when it comes to business. If you see something that makes sense and you're passionate about it – go for it.

Is money important to you?Honestly, it's not what drives me. Working in an industry that I love is what drives me. But saying that, you have to have money to live, and it's nice to be able to know you can pay your bills and have a nice place to come home to.

How much money do you have on you now?€125.