‘I remember what it was like to count my pennies. Money allows me to live a life I’ve always dreamed of’

Comedian Enya Martin starts her nationwide tour this week at An Grianán Theatre in Letterkenny, Co Donegal. Tour dates throughout June and July at singularartists.ie

Are you a saver or a spender?

The less money I had, the quicker I would spend it because God knows when I’d see the next pay-day. Now that I’ve more disposable income, I spend less of it and use it more sensibly. I treat myself to nice things that are of more durable quality. It comes with maturity, too, I think.

Do you shop around for better value?

Yes, especially since I moved out of my family home. To save money, my partner taught me to look out for the best deals doing the food shop.

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

I still think my car has been the most expensive thing that I’ve bought outright, but I see a car as an investment as I’d be lost without it. I’m not a materialistic person.

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

I’m a big believer in the saying that if you buy cheap, you buy twice. I’ll always spend a bit extra on things I’ll be using every day, such as air pods for the gym, good runners, good sunglasses and my phone, of course!

Do you haggle over prices?

No, I’d be mortified. As I said, if you buy cheap you buy twice.

How did the Covid-19 crisis change your spending habits?

I was self-employed so I relied solely on the PUP. I didn’t have much disposable income, and what I had, I spent mainly on takeaways and alcohol. That caught up on me eventually.

Do you invest in shares?

No, but if it was a business that aligned with my interests in the areas of the entertainment or fitness industries, I’d consider it down the line.

Cash or card?

Card. I hate carrying cash.

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

A watch for my boyfriend. It was a few hundred euro, so it will be durable, at least for his trips to the pub.

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

I have a company account so all my income lands in there and I invest back into my business by buying equipment or software. I make big purchases on that end of things, and a house will be next on the list. But a deposit is expensive.

Have you ever lost money?

Yes, and that’s why I hate carrying cash – I can be very careless with it.

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

No. I probably do a bet once every two years and only for the craic during the likes of Cheltenham.

Is money important to you?

I’m very grateful to be financially comfortable at the moment, and I will never take it for granted. I remember what it was like to count my pennies. Money allows me to live a life I’ve always dreamed of, so yes, it is very important to me.

How much money do you have on you now?

In coins, I have €3. I don’t carry cash notes or a purse, and I use contactless on my phone all the time.

In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea

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