A suzelfie means you have made it
YouTube personality and do-it-yourself queen Suzelle DIY has a quirky trick up her sleeve for every domestic problem, from peeling apples to balancing a budget spitbraai. But can she handle money, wonders Asha Speckman
What is the most money you’ve spent in a day? What were you doing?
I had a bit of a mishap when I was making a bobotie in a pumpkin. Let’s just say there was a fire extinguisher involved. I had to replace my oven, my hob, my extractor fan and I had to repaint my ceiling. But at the end of the day, it turned out to be a fun DIY project.
How responsible are you with money — are you stingy, careless or too conservative?
I like to be careful with my money because money doesn’t grow on trees, guys. But I do like to spoil myself sometimes when I feel like I deserve it.
How do you make your rands stretch in these tough economic times?
I like to be a little bit eco and upcycle. I like to make things instead of buying them or fix things instead of buying a new one.
What do you prefer: fame or fortune?
I must say the one thing I’ve learnt is that friendship is priceless. So for that I would choose fame because I have made so many wonderful friends.
When did you first realise you were famous?
When I was recognised in the queue at the Checkers and somebody asked me for a suzelfie.
What is your DIY advice on shopping? (Aren’t the lists of paper just clumsy in any case?)
Well, if you really want to shop like a pro, watch my video on “How to Dolly your Trolley”.
What is the best financial advice you’ve received?
Every time you earn money, put a little bit away for a
rainy day.
What is the worst financial decision you’ve ever made?
I used all my savings to go on holiday on a boat in Durban, but I was seasick the whole time, so I
didn’t enjoy it at all.
Where is the best place to store money?
In the bank.
What would you buy your best friend Marianne if you won the jackpot . . . and then yourself?
I would buy Marianne her very own salon for cats and dogs and for myself a laminator, new lights for my DIY studio and maybe a drone.