How will the recent budget changes impact your salon’s finances, and what steps can you take to navigate the challenges ahead?

In this episode of Hair Life, accountant Melanie Beach joins us and breaks down the financial changes hitting small salons, including the rise in national insurance and its effect on SMEs with five or more employees. Melanie offers actionable advice on cash flow management, transparency with staff, and how to create a strategic financial plan to stay ahead. We also explore the importance of consistent reporting, managing costs, and the value of investing in apprentices.

Are we truly living in a way that honours the time we have left?

In this episode of Hair Life, we explore the often-taboo subject of death. Inspired by recent, raw conversations with salon clients and our own experiences, we share the challenging realities of loss. I open up about losing my father nine years ago and the way his passing forever changed my perspective on life and mortality. Cally adds her own reflections on how grief can isolate, with friends and family often unsure how to stay supportive after the initial loss.

We share the powerful notion of intentional living: making each day matter and prioritising our well-being, joy, and relationships. Reflecting on the limited nature of our time, we discuss how self-care, conscious choices, and meaningful connections can transform how we experience the time we have.

After facing a significant health scare, Cally discovered the transformative power of setting boundaries and valuing time with family over material wealth. This personal revelation echoed a broader societal shift we've noticed, especially in a post-COVID world, where people are now more inclined to seek a balanced lifestyle despite financial pressures.

In this episode, we share heartwarming stories and discuss how older generations are adapting. We'll also shine a light on the immense pressures that today's youth face regarding their financial futures. As parents make significant investments in private education and young adults navigate the rising costs of university, debt becomes a heavy burden.

Lastly, we tackle the VAT debate within the salon industry, an ongoing challenge that we believe needs immediate attention. Salon owners are struggling with high VAT rates, and freelancers are opting for independence to escape these financial constraints. We explore potential solutions such as lowering the VAT rate and creating a supportive salon culture to retain staff.