Leah Barniville, a former semi-finalist in Britain’s Got Talent, features in Treasure Island, the pantomime at The Helix, Dublin, from Friday, November 24th to Sunday, January 14th. www.thehelix.ie.
Are you a saver or a spender?
I’m in my early 20s and I would consider myself a great saver for my age. I don’t drink much, I mostly prefer nights in over nights out, and I am a workaholic. Any significant amount of money I spend tends to be investments in my business and career development. Saying that, I must admit I love a Zara shopping spree occasionally.
Do you shop around for better value?
Yes, within reason and convenience. I will always choose quality over quantity and try to only buy things I think I will reuse. I feel an obligation to the environment to avoid unnecessary or one-time purchases.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
My biggest purchases to date have been my home studio equipment and professional studio time to record and produce my music.
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What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
Good quality gym clothes. I think investing in good quality gym wear that you feel comfortable in makes getting up in the morning and exercising, be it in the gym or outdoors, far more enjoyable.
How did you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions – online or local?
Online. The pandemic has really changed my perspective on in-person shopping. I never noticed how disorganised and manic shops were before! I like being able to type in what I need and having it pop up and be purchased within minutes. Of course, where possible I try to shop Irish.
Do you haggle over prices?
Only when I feel something is extremely overpriced. I would always be conscious of undervaluing a person’s product/service. As a singer/performer, I’m often asked to work for little or no pay. Obviously, this does not pay my bills, so I would always be wary of asking for a price reduction on anything. If I can’t afford something, I shop elsewhere or save up for longer before purchasing.
How did the Covid-19 crisis change your spending habits?
As I mentioned, I started online shopping more, almost weekly. I bought myself a little treat most weeks to get me through the gloomy lockdown autumn/winter. I also built my home recording studio during the early months of lockdown, so I invested money in that at the time.
Do you invest in shares?
No, although this is something I would like to start doing. The only notable investments I’ve made to date have been those in my business and my music, to help further my career as a recording artist and performer.
Cash or card?
Card always. I rarely have cash on me any more. That said, I don’t agree with businesses being card-only as it alienates children and elderly people who may not carry cards or be confident with smartphones.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
I recently signed up to a fitness instructor course, as fitness is another huge passion of mine. I find the boost in my mood after a gym session indescribable and I wanted to make sure that I’m doing everything correctly in the gym to avoid injury.
[ John Finucane: 'Being a musician, saving was never much of an option'Opens in new window ]
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
I’m currently saving to buy my first car, and I’m almost there. It will be my biggest purchase to date and I can’t wait to feel the reward of working hard for it.
Have you ever lost money?
I have invested money in musical projects that didn’t work out how I had originally intended, but I wouldn’t call that a loss, as I’ve always come away having gained more knowledge and experience than before.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
No, I don’t gamble, but I did win €300 at the Grand National at the Fairyhouse races on Easter Monday a few years ago.
Is money important to you?
Isn’t it important to everyone? I want to live a more-than-comfortable life and intend to continue working hard to achieve this. Fun fact, Google says my net worth is €22.5 million, but I’m not quite sure which bank account that’s in… Maybe one day I’ll figure it out!
How much money do you have on you now?
I have €50 in cash in my purse right now. I’m about to head to the nail salon to have my nails done as a little treat for myself after a hectic week’s work.
in conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
