Closer’s #MoneyMondays with Gina Yashere

Comedienne Gina Yashere reveals her shopping secrets and what she likes spending her money on.

Gina Yashere gold chain

by Francesca Battson |
Published on

What was your last regret buy?

I never regret my purchases. If I buy something, and then go off it, sometimes a year later I go back to it, and surprise myself by falling in love with it again...If not, there's always eBay, Craigslist or family birthdays!!

How are you with managing your money?

A lot better than I used to! I've always been a 'live for now' person, I believe in spending money, eating, traveling and generally enjoying life, because you never know how long you have.

But I also recognise that I'm not good with large chunks of money, so when I have gotten a lump, as can happen sometimes in this business, I've made sure I invested it in property, so I can't waste it, and I have something for the future.

I read a book a few years ago, called 'The Richest Man in Babylon', so for the last few years, I've ben diligently saving 10% of my earnings. I even upped it to 20% last year. I've never really saved before, unless I was saving for 'something', so it's a good habit.

Other than your home and your car, what’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

I like to reward myself when I hit a milestone in my life or career.

The most expensive thing is probably my diamond Cartier watch, bought when I sold my stand up comedy special to the Showtime Network in the US.

Gina Yashere microphone stand
Gina Yashere

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to spending?

Jewellery and gadgets!! I used to be an engineer, so I love all things gadgetry. I am always online, watching videos about the latest mobile technology. I'm on my 3rd phone this year already, and my 2nd Android watch. I'm never satisfied!!

What were the last five things you bought?

Every day at my house is like Christmas, as there is always some Amazon package arriving for me!

  • My earlobes are stretched, so I've bought various glass, stone and wood earrings for them

  • Bluetooth wireless headphones; I’m on my fourth pair this year, as I catch them in car doors, or lose them!

  • Electric roller shutter for my Mum's shop; so she doesn't have to keep physically opening and closing them, she can just press a button.

  • Airline tickets to Costa Rica for myself and the other half, to have a quick holiday after I get back from tour.

  • A glass screen protector for my best friend's phone, which was lucky, as the day after I fitted it, she dropped her phone face down on concrete! I'm a good friend…

Gina is performing as part of the Just For Laughs festival, which is taking over Russell Square in London from 13th to 24th July.

For more information and tickets please go to www.justforlaughslondon.com.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us