`Behavioural economists would have a field day with me'
First-generation Canadian Caryna Camerino oversees a wholesale bakery business that serves many independent cafés in the Dublin region.
camerino.ie
Are you a saver or a spender?
I am a spender because I'm always on the lookout for a bargain. My storage unit is full of 'great deals'.
What was the first job you received money for, and how much were you paid?
I was always craftsy, and one summer, in the 1990s, at the height of the popularity of the Y necklace, I made and sold them at my community swimming pool to other kids. The necklaces were all the rage. I probably sold 10 of them at $7 (Canadian) apiece.
Do you shop around for better value?
Oh, yes. Value for me doesn't just mean price. I care a lot about quality and would happily spend more money with an artisan or small producer than a chain. I usually check if something I want is available to buy second-hand before buying new.
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What has been your most extravagant purchase, and how much did it cost?
I bought a vintage Citroen HY for my business and converted it into a coffee truck. It cost €30,000 to buy and fit out. It's the most handsome truck around, and she even drives!
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
My first Kenwood mixer was bought from Costco in Canada on promotion. I brought it back to Ireland as carry-on luggage. My mother followed a few weeks later with a gigantic transformer. You'd never get away with that carry-on nowadays.
Is there anything you regret spending money on?
I had an adorable Vespa to travel around on. It was kind of my thing for a while. When the Vespa needed to be retired, I traded it in for a newer but lesser quality Vespa knock-off. It was so light that a gust of wind would tip me over. It was eventually stolen outside Merrion Square one evening while I was at work, and I never replaced it.
Do you haggle over prices?
I haggle over prices and ring around for the best deal. I get real satisfaction from the contribution it makes to my finances, which is hundreds per year. If there's a minimum spend for free parking or free shipping, I'm all over it. Behavioural economists would have a field day with me.
Do you invest in shares and/or cryptocurrency?
All of my available funds are invested back into my own businesses. I am completely uninterested in financial markets. I prefer to invest in something that I have control of, something more tangible.
Do you have a retirement or pension plan?
I have a small pension from my previous career in an engineering firm. My business is basically my retirement plan. I also intend to keep working until the very end.
What was the last thing you bought, and was it good value for money?
I found an electronic drum set second-hand for €150 and brought it home as a gift for my partner. It turned out to be a big hit with all the boys in the house. My 17-year-old stepson taught himself to drum, and while playing it unlocked my five-year-old's singing voice. He had never sung, quite literally, before sitting down at that kit.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
My first delivery van was bought after picking up a second job – I worked really early shifts baking in a restaurant for three months. I named her Vangela Lansbury.
Have you ever lost money?
I have invested in projects that didn't pay off, but those losses are balanced out by other successful ventures. You win some, you lose some. Typically, I don't take risks with my personal funds. The worst of it is probably the cool outfits I buy for my son that he refuses to wear.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
I am not a gambler, but my grandfather was. After playing the lottery for 45 years, he won $150,000 (Canadian). I was given £3,000 to buy my first car. It was good timing by me because by the time my sister and brother were old enough to drive, the money was all spent.
What is your best habit when it comes to money? And your worst?
My best habit is spending within my means. I don't have any personal debt. I keep that pressure contained in my business. My worst is not planning for specific financial outcomes – or maybe my worst is that I have no interest in doing that.
How much money do you have on you now?
I have €8 in coins, so I'm prepared to access shopping trolleys at any moment.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
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