Welcome back to The Business Besties Club Podcast - the go-to space for ambitious business owners who want real talk, practical inspiration, and a whole lot of support.
In this final episode of the year, host Katie Clayton sits down with powerhouse entrepreneur Kelly Riddington, the incredible founder behind Heaven Sent and Nero Bianco, two thriving brands built from passion, grit, and a fearless willingness to reinvent when life demands it.
Kelly’s story is one every small business owner needs to hear.
From launching her first beauty business at just 20, to navigating multiple salon moves and expansions, to facing the heartbreak and loss of control during lockdown, Kelly opens up about the moments that shaped her as an entrepreneur, including the mental toll of 2020 and how she rebuilt herself and her business from the ground up.
Out of that challenging season came something extraordinary: Nero Bianco, the luxury home fragrance brand that started as a kitchen table side hustle and has now grown into a stunning store and workshop space in Lichfield. Kelly shares the whole journey, from wax melts in the kitchen to a fully-fledged brand with a devoted community.
This episode is packed with honesty, heart, and the kind of behind-the-scenes lessons you only learn by living them. Kelly talks about the pressure of fast renovations, the unwavering support of her family, the emotional decision to close one of her long-running salons, and what it really takes to juggle two growing businesses while staying true to your values.
It’s a powerful conversation about resilience, reinvention, and trusting your instincts, even when the path ahead feels uncertain.
🎧 Tune in for an inspiring, uplifting episode full of real stories, actionable wisdom, and the reminder that every setback can spark something beautiful.
Connect with Katie on Instagram: @katieclaytonmarketing
Connect with Kelly on Instagram: @heavensentlichfield @nerobianco or visit www.nerobianco.co.uk
