Gabrielle Union Reflects on First Big Purchase at Film Festival
At the recent American Black Film Festival, actress Gabrielle Union shared a memorable story about her first big purchase after landing a substantial paycheck. Speaking at an event on June 12, she recounted an experience that many can relate to—making a choice that may not have been the smartest financially.
Union, known for her role in Bring It On, admitted to being excited when she stepped onto a Mazda lot. "I thought I made it when I bought a new Mazda," she said, recalling her father’s advice against buying a brand-new car because of its immediate depreciation. "He warned me, ‘Don’t buy a brand new car. It loses value as soon as you drive it off the lot.’”
Despite this sage advice, Union went ahead and bought a black Mazda Miata with leather seats. “I scorched myself every time I got out of that car,” she laughed, reflecting on her choice. This humorous moment highlighted the lessons that often come with youthful excitement and financial decisions.
The panel, titled “Sisterhood & Savings: A Conversation with Gabrielle Union,” was moderated by Kelley L. Carter. Union shared not only her financial choices but also insights on the importance of sisterhood and community.
Union and her husband, retired NBA star Dwyane Wade, have previously opened up about their approach to finances, maintaining an equal split of their bills. The couple signed a prenup before tying the knot in August 2014, agreeing that their successful careers should be respected.
Wade once remarked, “I told her the same way, ‘I’ll sign a prenup too. You’re a millionaire, you got money. You work hard for yourself.’”
This conversation at the festival is not just about personal stories; it’s a reminder of the importance of sound financial decisions and the value of communication in relationships.
