‘During Covid, shopping was my medicine. I still have clothes in my wardrobe with tags that I bought during that time’

Lana Dullaghan is a graduate of the Interior Design Academy of Ireland and will be at the PTSB Ideal Home Show, at the RDS in Dublin, October 18th-20th. idealhome.ie

Are you a saver or a spender?

I’m more of a spender. I love fashion and beautiful things for the home, so it’s hard to save when I am constantly exposed to so many wonderful items. Additionally, I enjoy investing in products and new business ideas.

Do you shop around for better value?

Sometimes I shop around for better value, but if I really like something, I tend to just buy it and convince myself that I deserve a treat.

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

It’s probably my art collection of Irish artists that I started investing in a while ago. I can’t resist adding new artwork whenever I go to exhibitions and fall in love with a painting. I’m not sure how much it all costs in total, but I think it’s better not to know so that I can allow myself to indulge a little more before I find out.

What ways did you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions – online or local?

Both. I’m afraid to say that during Covid, shopping was my medicine. I still have clothes in my wardrobe with tags that I bought during that time. I am a people person, and I love meeting others. The lockdowns were a real struggle for me, so I turned to shopping as a form of comfort.

Do you haggle over prices?

Not really. I always consider how much work and effort people put into developing products and services, and I typically never haggle.

[ Dáithi Ó Sé: ‘I keep change in my car for the tolls and it can go missing. My young fella is my main man and suspect’Opens in new window ]

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

After Covid, I realised that I needed to be more mindful about my purchases, so I had to change my habits regarding comfort buying. Now, if I really like something, I think about it for a couple of days or even a few hours before making the purchase. This way, I ensure that I truly like it or need it, rather than making an impulsive buy. My spending during Covid definitely made me realise a lot of things.

Do you invest in shares?

No, not yet.

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

I came across a beautiful dress online, but it was quite expensive, so I told myself I had to think about it for a few days. Then it went on sale, and I was delighted with myself when I made the purchase.

Have you ever lost money?

I would love to say no, but as a businesswoman, I enjoy investing in products and new ideas. Since my business wasn’t focused on essentials during Covid, I did lose money when the pandemic hit, and I’m sure I wasn’t alone. The economy has been very unstable for many businesses over the past few years due to Covid, various global crises and Brexit. However, I’m a positive person, and I always remind myself that these challenges are part of the process and a valuable learning experience.

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

I’m not a gambler, although I’m still waiting for my big win!

Is money important to you?

It’s good to have money and stability, but they have never been a primary focus for me. I believe that if you have passion and joy in what you do, the money will follow.

How much money do you have on you now?

I never carry a lot of cash since it’s so convenient to have a card connected to my phone. Currently, I have €5, €20, and €50 notes on me.