ME and MY MONEY:CLAUDIA BOYLE Opera singer
Are you a saver or a spender?
I’m both. I certainly have no problem spending money but only when I have it. Any time I put something on my credit card, I have a very annoying habit of paying it back online the next day. I know it defeats the purpose, as my accountant boyfriend tells me but I hate thinking I have more money in my account than I actually do.
Do you shop around for better value?
Yes, when I have the time. It’s surprising when you take the time to shop around how many price discrepancies you see.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
My most extravagant purchase was a minuscule tub of Crème de la Mer for over €100. I knew it was ridiculous, but part of me just wanted to be able to say I owned a jar!
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
My trusty fire-engine-red Nespresso machine. I used to spend so much money buying coffees. Now every morning I get up and have a double macchiato and I’m good to go! The coffee is amazing, even better than the cafes.
Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?
No, it defeats the purpose with the cost of travel and the time spent making the trip. When I was younger I remember going up North with my parents the odd time. But I don’t know if it’s worth it nowadays.
Do you haggle over prices?
Yes I do. I used to be terrible at discussing money but being self-employed you have to develop a tough skin. I was in Harvey Norman a couple of weeks ago and haggled them down an extra €30 on a George Foreman grill. I was very proud of myself.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
No, it hasn’t at all. In fact, I probably spend more money because of falling for recession bargains and deals. I can’t walk past a “ two for one” or “ special offer” sign without stopping. I’m an easy target!
Do you invest in shares?
No. Not yet anyway, and now seems to be a bad time. At the moment, if I had money to spare I would probably buy gold.
Cash or card?
Cash when possible. The card can be lethal, as you don’t realise how much you’re spending. There’s nothing like handing over cash to make it more real (and painful).
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
The last thing I bought was my new MacBook. Along with my iPhone, it is amazing value. I don’t know what I did before Apple came along . . .
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes, I saved up for my car last year. It’s an 08 Renault Megane hatchback and I love it.
Have you ever lost money?
Not lost, but I have had money stolen. I was doing a concert in the Ulster Hall in Belfast and I had my wallet taken out of my bag in the dressing room when I was on stage. It had €500 in it as I had just been paid for a job. The guy was seen on CCTV but was never caught. I’m always on the lookout now.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
I’m not really a gambler but I have played roulette the odd time. I’ve never let myself go over €50. It’s a slippery slope, though. I did €250 at the roulette table once and that was all profit – a once-off!
Is money important to you?
I like what it enables me to do but it’s not my main motivation. You don’t go into the arts to get rich.
How much money do you have on you now?
I have €75 in my wallet. Unfortunately, I just got a parking ticket today in Wexford, outside the Opera House, so it’s really €35!
In conversation with TONY CLAYTON-LEA
