ME & MY MONEY:PAUL SHEERAN, JEWELLER
Are you a saver or a spender?I'm a combination of both. I like nice things, as does everybody, but I have no problem saying no if it's not the right time to buy. I think you enjoy nice things more if you have to save for them. It makes them even more special.
Do you shop around for better value?For certain products like petrol and weekly shopping I would definitely be very price aware, but for the nicer things in life not always. I think good service and shopping experience can make parting with my money far easier and much more enjoyable.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?I have not been very extravagant, but I have my dreams and some day that will be a vintage Ferrari. Well, you've got to have your dreams.
Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?Not only do I not cross-Border shop, but where possible I also only buy from Irish-owned companies. I want every penny I spend to remain in our economy. Support your own and they will support you.
Do you haggle over prices?Yes, and I get my kids to do the same as it teaches them the value of money.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?Definitely, I am far more aware of the price of everything and would not buy anything unnecessarily. Having said that, special occasions should always be remembered, and I think gifts are far more appreciated now as we have to work harder and save longer for them.
Do you invest in shares?I have never won that race. I stick to the things I know best, such as high-quality diamonds.
Cash or card?Card, it's handier, safer and can be any currency you want!
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?Coffee with my dad. I am lucky that money can still buy that. Was it good value for money? The best value in the world. Everyone should have coffee with my dad – you'll walk away with a bounce in your step.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?Yes, but a big purchase is relative to what you earn. I was 19, I had no money, and I was working for peanuts. I needed £300 to pay for my first two-week holiday on my own, plus spending money. After a lot of hard work, I eventually nailed it – and what a holiday!
Have you ever lost money?Oh, God, yes. Think boom, think recession.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?No, I'm not a gambler as it's one of my pet hates. But I do have the occasional flutter on the Grand National and the like. Come on, Bobby Joe.
Is money important to you?It's important but it's not my God. I have learnt that it makes life easier, but it won't make you happy. A barbecue is a barbecue whether it's sausages or steak. It's the people that you're sharing it with that makes it enjoyable.
How much money do you have on you now?€37.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea.
Paul Sheeran is managing director of Paul Sheeran Jewellers, Johnson’s Court, Dublin.
