Im starting a salon and have had the hardest time getting a business loan due to the state of the economy and the fact that my business is not yet established. I need to pull a loan for $25000 for equipment and start up fees, and have $20000 cash. the banks wanted a total loan amount of $183000 to include a 6 month cushion so that if we didn't make a penny we could still run, the thing is i already have all my chairs filled with stylists that have a a clientele so that is way too much money for me to pull. they also want 30 % down and the consultant said even then good luck you wont get it! my husband and i have great credit so we know we can get a personal loan. my question is, dumb move or necessary? any advice would be great! thanks!