Styling a Business for Resilience and Growth

Case Study: Blushed Salon + Collins Hume

When Melissa Edwards, founder of Blushed salon in Ballina, lost three staff members in a single week, she feared her business might not survive.

“I lost many clients due to their departure and I felt that my professional reputation had taken a hit,” Melissa recalls. “I had to rethink my strategy and reassess what it was that I wanted in my business and life.”

Like many creative entrepreneurs, Melissa knew her strengths lay in vision, service and style (not bookkeeping). What she needed was guidance, support and the financial clarity to rebuild stronger than ever.

That’s where Collins Hume came in.

Building Confidence Beyond the Salon Mirror

Blushed is more than a beauty destination. With its signature blend of blonde perfection, hairstyling, makeup and lash and brow services, the Tamar Street salon is a sanctuary for self-care and confidence. But running a thriving personal service business comes with financial complexity and cash flow doesn’t style itself.

Melissa knew she needed financial advisers who not only understood numbers but could help her understand them too.

“Peter and Kim of Collins Hume are literal angels,” says Melissa. “I was not a numbers gal; I am a creative that knows hair! I have been very supported to learn the basics of Xero, BAS and GST, and have learnt how to do bookkeeping practices under the guidance of my CH team.”

Structuring for the Future

With Collins Hume’s support, Melissa found her rhythm. Our team worked closely with Melissa to build her knowledge of compliance, cash flow principles and digital systems like Xero – empowering her to make confident business decisions and stay aligned with ATO requirements.

“Melissa’s resilience and passion are undeniable,” says Peter Fowler, Partner at Collins Hume.

“She came to us at a point where many business owners might have walked away, but instead she leaned into learning and took control of her financials. It’s been a privilege to support that transformation.”

A Beautiful Business Built on Purpose

Melissa attributes her longevity to “understanding our WHY, and having like-minded business people in your corner.”

Her advice to other business owners? “Understand your numbers. Business can be expensive and you must understand cash flow principles. Outsource elements to free up your time. Ensure you have a business mentor that understands business.”

With a renewed sense of purpose, a growing team and solid financial systems in place, Blushed continues to be a source of inspiration – not just for the community it beautifies, but for business owners determined to bounce back.

Need financial clarity in your business? Get in touch with Collins Hume to help turn your business challenges into defining moments.

Explore Blushed: www.blushedandbeautiful.com.au

Instagram: @blushed_salon_ballina

Facebook: facebook.com/blushedsalonballina