But for a lot of creative people, it does. You’re deep in a project, chasing invoices, juggling dates, managing kit, travel, agents, subs, edits… and suddenly someone says, “Your year-end is coming up.” And your stomach drops. Because year-end has a way of turning vague money worries into loud ones: I’ve worked with creative professionals […]
Year-end shouldn’t feel like a fire drill. Read More »
It’s always a privilege to be in a room full of people who genuinely care about the strength and future of Somerset’s visitor economy. My talk focused on navigating uncertainty — something many businesses are feeling right now. From rising costs to shifting consumer behaviour, the landscape continues to evolve. But what stood out most
I was delighted to have been asked to speak at the Visit Somerset AGM yesterday. Read More »
A quick heads up for business owners and fellow advisers. I recently worked through an issue where a client had not completed their PSC identity verification — and it was easy to see why. The email reminder to confirm PSC identity looks almost identical to the one reminding you to confirm officer identity. It’s very
⚠️ Companies House PSC Identity – Easy to Miss Read More »
I speak to a lot of musicians, artists and creative founders who start with: “I’m terrible with money.” “I don’t understand tax.” “I just want to focus on the work.” Here’s what I’ve noticed. Most creatives aren’t bad with money. They’re:• Vision-led• Opportunity-driven• Project-focused• Emotionally invested in their work Which is exactly what makes them
Why So Many Creatives Feel “Bad With Money” (And Why That’s Not True) Read More »
Our director, Craig, speaks about some recent thoughts on this matter. We often talk about imposter syndrome as an internal issue — a lack of confidence, self-doubt, or feeling like we’re “not good enough”. But in reality, it’s often triggered by external factors. A dismissive comment.A raised eyebrow in a meeting.Someone is talking over you.A
Imposter syndrome doesn’t always come from within. Read More »
In the creative industries, your IP is often your pension, your safety net, and your future income. Music. Publishing. Film. Software. Design. Licensing deals look great on paper — but one uncomfortable truth comes up again and again: Royalties are frequently underpaid.Not always deliberately. But often quietly. That’s where a royalty audit becomes one of
Royalty Audits: The Money Creatives Don’t Realise They’re Missing Read More »
In today’s creator-led economy, more artists, designers, writers, filmmakers and other creatives are turning passion into business. Yet while creativity fuels innovation, the financial side is often complex, inconsistent and misunderstood. That’s precisely why a niche accountant for creatives isn’t just a luxury — it’s a strategic advantage. 1. Creative Income Isn’t “Traditional Income” Unlike
Why Creatives Need a Niche Accountant — And What That Really Means Read More »
Making music is creative, expressive, and deeply personal.Unfortunately, tax is none of those things — and that’s where many musicians get caught out. Over the years, I’ve seen incredibly talented musicians lose money, sleep, and sometimes momentum, simply because no one ever explained the financial side in plain English. Here are the five biggest tax
The 5 Biggest Tax Mistakes Musicians Make (And How to Avoid Them) Read More »
Our director, Craig, talks about his journey in volunteering. Zen is pleased to support him in his work. Having been a chartered accountant for many years, I’m always getting asked to act as treasurer, adviser, etc, for charities and groups. I’ve always wanted to put back into my community and have been a treasurer and
Volunteering in your community Read More »
What Yoga Can Teach Us About Business (7 Simple Ideas) – Our director, Craig, offers some examples:Many of you probably know I’m a qualified yoga teacher. The longer I practise yoga, the more I realise the lessons don’t stay on the mat — they show up in business and life too. Here are seven parallels
What Yoga Can Teach Us About Business (7 Simple Ideas) Read More »