In this episode of the HerStory Podcast, host Kylie King talks with the incredible Melissa Neville, founder of Missy’s Magic Styles. Based in Canberra, Melissa is not your average hairdresser. As the 2023 Alibi Award winner for the Overcoming the Odds category, Melissa manages a schedule that is booked out years in advance while balancing high-end bridal work with deeply impactful community service.

Melissa shares her unique journey as a business owner with communication dyslexia, proving that “disability” doesn’t mean “inability.” From providing palliative care haircuts to navigating the high-pressure “crazy season” of weddings, Melissa discusses why reputation and customer service are the ultimate currencies in business. Whether she’s advocating for the elderly or calming a nervous bride, Melissa’s story is a masterclass in heart-led entrepreneurship.

What You’ll Learn in Episode 22

• How Melissa managed to book her services out until 2026 and beyond.

• The reality of providing mobile hairdressing for palliative care, the elderly, and people with special needs.

• Navigating business and communication while living with communication dyslexia and ADHD.

• Strategies for handling “bridezillas” and difficult clients with empathy and boundaries.

• The power of reputation: Why the way you treat your first client impacts your 400th.

• Why networking with other women in business is the “secret sauce” for growth and support.

• Melissa’s “brutally honest” approach to business coaching and staying true to your personality.

• The importance of being an advocate for the vulnerable in your local community.

Melissa Neville, aka Missy or Mel, is the kind of girlfriend you want around you on a big day. You know, like your wedding. She carries a bobby pin and a band-aid in her bag just in case, listens to your problems with a caring ear, and has most likely heard it before.

Did I mention she’s a whiz with hair?
I mean the sort of creative genius hairstylist you might think doesn’t exist. She can take one look at you while you chat, then create a perfect style you may never have considered, but love!

Married to an intensive care paramedic, with three kids and over 25 years experience in the hairdressing industry, Mel specialises in weddings and giving back to the community.

Mel is a professional you feel instantly comfortable around and know you can trust.

Find Melissa:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Missysmagicstyles
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missysmagicstyles
Website: https://missysmagicstyles.com.au

Want More Support Like This?

If you’re a woman in business looking for connection, inspiration, and practical support, you’re welcome inside the Australian Ladies in Business Initiative community.
Join the community here.