A New Chapter for Riverbalms: How Shelley Garvie is Crafting Wellness and Sustainability
Based in the beautiful South Australian Riverland, Shelley Garvie began her heartfelt journey as the new owner of Riverbalms, a cherished local business specialising in handmade lip and body balms. With its roots firmly planted in the community for the past five years, Riverbalms is a testament to sustainability, using all-natural ingredients sourced locally and packaged in eco-friendly materials. For Shelley, this isn’t just a business—it’s a mission filled with purpose and love.
"I feel very fortunate and honoured to be the new caretaker of this beloved enterprise and to continue its legacy," Shelley shares. Her passion for creating quality, sustainable products shines through, bringing wellness to her customers while supporting the local economy.
From Challenge to Renewal
Shelley’s journey to entrepreneurship is one of resilience and rediscovery. Five years ago, she faced a life-changing leukemia diagnosis, enduring months of intense treatment and a life-saving stem cell transplant. Now, in remission, Shelley reflects on how that experience reshaped her priorities.
"That journey compelled me to reassess my lifestyle," she explains. With her children grown and a desire for flexibility and meaningful work, Riverbalms became the perfect fit. "The values of this business align perfectly with my commitment to health, wellness, and sustainability."
Empowering Business Growth
When Shelley took over Riverbalms, she faced the inevitable steep learning curve of running a small business. To navigate this transition, she joined the Women in Business Foundations Program through Adelaide Business Hub.
"I felt completely overwhelmed at first," Shelley admits. "The program provided the skills and support I needed to confidently manage my business operations." From learning essential tools like Xero for bookkeeping and Shopify for e-commerce to mastering social media engagement and marketing strategies, the program proved invaluable.
From Markets to Milestones
Shelley’s newfound confidence was put to the test during her first market day, which she describes as a "successful and profitable experience." She now manages invoicing, e-commerce, and financial accounts with ease, attributing much of her growth to the program’s mentorship and practical guidance.
"My advice to others? Step out of your comfort zone. Even if the challenges seem daunting, having the right support in place can make all the difference," Shelley encourages.
Continuing the Legacy
As Shelley leads Riverbalms into its next chapter, her mission remains clear: crafting products that bring wellness to her community and beyond, while honouring the sustainable ethos that has defined the brand from the beginning.
To explore Riverbalms’ range of handcrafted, eco-friendly balms, visit their website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook
Riverbalms is more than a business—it’s a story of resilience, passion, and care, shared one balm at a time.