Clionadh Lynders Twomey - The Sweet Treat Company

Are you a saver or a spender?

Unfortunately a spender! I’ve spent a not inconsiderable amount on getting my business up and running.

It’s certainly paid dividends, as it was recently the recipient of two prestigious industry awards. I love treating my family (and myself) to their little pleasures – some of those types of splurges you just can’t give up. Our twin six-year-old boys think that their mom running her own business means an endless supply of the latest sports equipment and gadgets.

Do you shop around for better value?

I’ve become quite a savvy shopper. I am more conscious of how much I spend on things like groceries, clothes, insurance, but I do still want quality and good customer service. Shopping around in the past few years, I am amazed at the difference in value for money you can get. But I always try to buy local if I can.

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

New York for my husband’s birthday in 2008. Hotel and flights cost A LOT.

It didn’t help that the real spending only started when we hit Fifth Avenue – he never got to see the credit card bill.

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

My iPhone – I couldn’t live without it. Now that I’ve started my own business, it gives me the ability to manage on the go.

I’m constantly on the road between events, and having immediate internet and email access is vital to keeping in touch with my valued clients.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

On a couple of occasions in the past I joined the mass exodus to shop up North.

It wouldn’t even cross my mind now to travel, as I’m a firm believer that we need to spend local in order to try to kick -start the economy into life again.

Do you haggle over prices?

Yes, absolutely – my retail buyer training kicking in – but it depends on for what and where.

If there is a potential bargain to be had, then I’ll pursue. I’ve recently started buying vintage pieces for the house. It’s amazing what bargains are to be had if you are prepared to haggle.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?

Yes. Before that, I was loyal to the same shops, out of ignorance or naivety or pure indulgence, or a combination of all three.

Now I shop around. Is customer loyalty a thing of the past?

Do you invest in shares?

I invested in technology shares many years ago. Never again!

Cash or card?

Both, I’m a bit more disciplined with the credit card now than I was a few years ago.

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

A paperback book, Chaos to Control, by productivity coach Ciara Conlon.

It has given some very useful and practical tips for both my personal and professional lives – definitely the best €15 I’ve spent in recent times.

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

Many nights in and a few less holidays later I had enough to place a deposit on my first apartment when I was 21.

Have you ever lost money?

Luckily no. However, I have lost on technology and blue chip shares in the last few years.

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

The odd flutter on the Lotto, perhaps, nothing more than that. Gambling is for mugs and there’s only ever one winner, the bookie or the casino.

Is money important to you?

At the moment I’m continuing to develop and expand my online Candy Buffet business, so, yes, money will certainly help me try to achieve my business goals.

On a personal level, as long as I can keep the wolf from the door I’m happy.

How much money do you have on you now?

About €30 in notes and a lot of loose change.

I also have a few gift vouchers received for my recent birthday. Do they count?

Visit thesweettreatco.comfor further information. In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea