The beauty industry is booming - and lash extensions are one of its fastest-growing segments. Amazing Lash Studio has positioned itself as the top lash extension franchise in the United States, with hundreds of locations serving millions of clients. If you have been dreaming of owning your own Amazing Lash Studio location, you are probably wondering: how do I pay for it? This complete guide breaks down everything you need to know about Amazing Lash Studio franchise financing, from startup costs and loan types to qualification requirements and the step-by-step application process.
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Founded in 2010, Amazing Lash Studio is the leading lash extension franchise in North America. The brand pioneered the membership-based lash extension model, offering clients a recurring subscription for ongoing lash services. This approach creates predictable monthly revenue for franchise owners - a major reason investors find the brand attractive.
Amazing Lash Studio locations offer a range of services including eyelash extensions (classic, hybrid, volume, and mega volume styles), lash lifts, and tinting. With over 270 locations across the country, the franchise has built a massive and loyal customer base. The brand is part of WellBiz Brands, Inc., a portfolio company that also includes Destination XL and DryBar, providing franchisees with strong corporate infrastructure and support.
For aspiring entrepreneurs with a passion for the beauty industry, Amazing Lash Studio represents a compelling opportunity - one backed by a proven business model, a powerful membership engine, and a nationally recognized brand. But like most franchise businesses, getting started requires significant capital, and that is where smart franchise financing becomes essential.
Before you apply for any franchise loan, you need to understand exactly what you are paying for. The total investment to open an Amazing Lash Studio ranges from approximately $214,810 to $536,965 depending on location, buildout requirements, and your specific market. Here is a detailed breakdown of the major cost components:
In addition to the initial investment, ongoing fees include a royalty of 6% of gross sales and a brand marketing fee of 2% of gross sales. These are standard costs you will need to factor into your cash flow projections when applying for financing.
It is worth noting that Amazing Lash Studio is registered on the SBA Franchise Registry, which means SBA loan approval is streamlined for qualified applicants - a significant advantage when seeking franchise financing.
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Apply Now →Even if you have significant personal savings, financing your Amazing Lash Studio franchise is often the smarter financial decision. Here is why:
Opening a new business always brings unexpected costs. By financing the bulk of your startup investment, you preserve your personal cash reserves as a safety net. Businesses that exhaust their capital before achieving breakeven are far more likely to struggle in Year 1. A smart franchise loan lets you open with strength rather than desperation.
Amazing Lash Studio's membership model means monthly recurring revenue kicks in quickly. Once you have 200-400 active members paying $50-$80 per month, you have a predictable income stream that supports loan repayment. This revenue predictability makes Amazing Lash Studio particularly attractive to lenders compared to transactional businesses.
Interest paid on business loans is generally tax-deductible, reducing your effective cost of borrowing. Your accountant can help you maximize these deductions. Additionally, equipment and leasehold improvements may qualify for Section 179 deductions, further improving your first-year tax picture.
Taking on and responsibly repaying a business loan builds your company's credit profile from day one. Strong business credit opens the door to better financing terms, higher credit lines, and multi-unit expansion opportunities down the road.
There is no single "franchise loan" product - instead, franchise buyers typically use a combination of financing vehicles depending on their needs, timeline, and credit profile. Here are the main options:
The SBA 7(a) loan is the most popular financing option for franchise startups. Because Amazing Lash Studio is listed on the SBA Franchise Registry, lenders can underwrite your loan more efficiently without requiring additional franchisor approval. Key features include:
If you plan to own the property where your Amazing Lash Studio will operate, the SBA 504 loan is worth exploring. It combines a bank loan with a Certified Development Company (CDC) loan to finance major fixed assets at below-market interest rates. Learn more about SBA loan programs at SBA.gov.
Your lash beds, steam equipment, lighting, and salon furniture can often be financed separately through an equipment loan. Since the equipment serves as its own collateral, equipment financing is typically easier to qualify for and can fund quickly - sometimes within 24-48 hours. This lets you preserve your SBA loan capacity for larger expenses like the build-out and franchise fee.
Alternative and online lenders offer term loans with faster approval timelines than traditional banks. While rates may be slightly higher, these loans fund in days rather than weeks, which can be critical if you need to move quickly on a lease signing. Crestmont Capital specializes in fast-approval business term loans for franchise operators.
A revolving line of credit is perfect for managing the working capital needs of your new Amazing Lash Studio - covering payroll during slow months, funding marketing campaigns, or managing inventory. Unlike a term loan, you only pay interest on what you actually draw. According to Forbes, lines of credit are most valuable when used for short-term, recurring cash flow needs rather than long-term capital investments.
If you have substantial retirement savings, a ROBS arrangement allows you to use your 401(k) or IRA funds to capitalize your franchise without early withdrawal penalties or taxes. While complex to set up, ROBS can eliminate the need for debt entirely - or reduce the amount you need to borrow. Always work with a qualified ROBS provider and tax advisor before pursuing this strategy.
Crestmont Capital is the #1 rated business lender in the United States, helping franchise owners across every industry get the funding they need - fast. Here is what sets us apart:
Whether you are a first-time franchise buyer or an experienced multi-unit operator, Crestmont Capital has the right financing solution for your Amazing Lash Studio investment.
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Apply Now →Amazing Lash Studio - Key Investment Numbers
$214K - $537K
Total Initial Investment
$39,500
Franchise Fee (Single Unit)
270+
Locations Nationwide
6% / 2%
Royalty / Marketing Fee
$150K+
Minimum Net Worth Required
SBA Listed
SBA Franchise Registry
Source: Amazing Lash Studio Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Numbers are approximate and subject to change. Always review the current FDD before investing.
Lender requirements vary depending on the type of loan you are pursuing, but here are the general qualification benchmarks you should aim for:
Remember that as a new franchise - even if you have never run a business before - Amazing Lash Studio's brand recognition and proven business model work in your favor during underwriting. Lenders know the Amazing Lash Studio concept has a track record of success, which reduces their perceived risk.
Here is what the Amazing Lash Studio franchise financing journey typically looks like from start to funded:
Before approaching any lender, carefully review Amazing Lash Studio's Franchise Disclosure Document. Pay special attention to Item 19 (Financial Performance Representations) and Item 7 (Estimated Initial Investment). Understanding the real numbers is essential for building your loan request.
Work with Amazing Lash Studio's franchise development team and your accountant to build a detailed startup budget. Include all costs - not just the build-out and franchise fee, but also the working capital you will need to sustain operations for the first 6-12 months while you build your membership base.
Request a free copy of your credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com. Dispute any errors, pay down high balances, and avoid opening new credit accounts in the 90 days before applying. Even a 20-point improvement in your score can mean significantly better loan terms.
Standard lender requirements include: 2-3 years of personal tax returns, recent bank statements (3-6 months), a detailed business plan with financial projections, your Amazing Lash Studio franchise agreement, proof of equity injection (down payment funds), and a personal financial statement.
Submit your application through Crestmont Capital. Our team will review your financial profile, identify the best loan products for your situation, and submit your application to the most qualified lenders in our network simultaneously. This saves you weeks of shopping around and maximizes your chances of approval.
Once approved, you may receive multiple offers with different rates, terms, and structures. Your Crestmont loan advisor will walk you through the comparison to ensure you choose the option that best fits your cash flow needs and long-term goals.
SBA loans typically close within 60-90 days. Alternative loans can close in as little as 1-3 days. At closing, funds are disbursed according to the approved use of proceeds - typically directly to contractors, equipment vendors, and your franchisor for the franchise fee.
Here are three hypothetical examples of how Amazing Lash Studio franchise buyers might structure their financing:
Total Project Cost: $320,000 | Down Payment: $64,000 (20%) | Loan Amount: $256,000 via SBA 7(a) | Term: 10 years | Est. Monthly Payment: ~$2,800. This franchisee had a 710 credit score, $80,000 in savings, and 8 years of management experience in retail.
Total Project Cost: $450,000 | Down Payment: $90,000 (20%) | Loan: $300,000 SBA 7(a) for build-out and franchise fee + $60,000 equipment financing for lash beds and salon furniture | Monthly Payments: ~$3,800 combined. This franchisee already owned a hair salon and used their existing business financial history to strengthen the application.
Goal: 3 Amazing Lash Studio locations | Financing: Combination of ROBS (using $150,000 from retirement accounts) + SBA 7(a) for $400,000 | Strategy: Open Unit 1 with strong equity injection, use cash flow to accelerate repayment, refinance for Unit 2 within 2 years. This investor took advantage of Amazing Lash Studio's multi-unit developer agreements, which offer reduced franchise fees for additional locations.
According to data from CNBC, franchise businesses have a higher rate of SBA loan approval than independent startups, largely due to the franchisor's proven business model and the borrower's access to training and support systems.
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Apply Now →The total initial investment to open an Amazing Lash Studio franchise ranges from approximately $214,810 to $536,965. This includes the franchise fee of $39,500, leasehold improvements, equipment, initial inventory, training, marketing, and working capital reserves. The wide range reflects differences in location size, buildout complexity, and local labor costs.
Yes, Amazing Lash Studio is listed on the SBA Franchise Registry. This means SBA lenders can underwrite your loan without requiring additional franchisor review and approval, which significantly speeds up the SBA loan process for qualified borrowers.
For an SBA loan, most lenders look for a personal credit score of at least 650-680, with 700+ giving you access to the best rates and terms. Alternative lenders may approve borrowers with scores as low as 580-600, though at higher interest rates. Your credit score is just one factor - lenders also consider your net worth, liquidity, business plan, and experience.
Most SBA lenders require a down payment of 10-20% of the total project cost. For an Amazing Lash Studio at the lower end of the investment range ($214,810), that means having $21,000 to $43,000 in equity injection ready. At the higher end ($536,965), you would need $53,700 to $107,393 down. Amazing Lash Studio also requires a minimum of $50,000 in liquid assets, separate from your down payment.
SBA 7(a) loans typically take 45-90 days from application to funding. Alternative term loans and equipment financing can be approved and funded in as little as 24-72 hours. Working with a lender like Crestmont Capital that has relationships with multiple SBA-preferred lenders can shorten the SBA timeline significantly.
Yes, through a ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups) arrangement, you can use funds from a 401(k), IRA, or other qualifying retirement account to fund your franchise without triggering early withdrawal penalties or income taxes. ROBS is a legitimate IRS-recognized strategy, but it is complex and requires working with a qualified ROBS provider and CPA. It can be used alone or combined with an SBA loan.
Amazing Lash Studio does not directly provide financing to franchisees. However, the brand works with preferred lenders and financing resources to help franchisees find appropriate funding. The franchisor may provide referrals to SBA-approved lenders who are familiar with the brand. Always ask the franchise development team for their current list of recommended lenders.
Standard documents include: 2-3 years of personal tax returns, 3-6 months of personal and business bank statements, a signed franchise agreement or letter of intent, a detailed business plan with 3-year financial projections, a personal financial statement, proof of equity injection (showing your down payment funds), a resume outlining your professional background, and a copy of the Amazing Lash Studio FDD.
Amazing Lash Studio charges an ongoing royalty fee of 6% of gross sales and a brand marketing fund fee of 2% of gross sales. These fees cover corporate support, national advertising, and access to proprietary systems. Factor these fees into your financial projections when calculating how much loan you can afford to repay.
Profitability varies significantly based on location, local market, management quality, and how quickly you build your membership base. Item 19 of the Amazing Lash Studio FDD provides detailed financial performance data from existing franchisees. Mature Amazing Lash Studio locations with strong membership rosters can generate healthy annual revenues, but results are not guaranteed for any individual location. Always consult with existing franchisees during your due diligence process.
Yes, multi-unit expansion financing is available once your first location has been operating for at least 6-12 months with positive cash flow. SBA loans can fund multiple locations over time. Alternative lenders may also offer expansion financing. Multi-unit operators often receive favorable franchise fee discounts from Amazing Lash Studio, making the economics of additional locations even more attractive.
Industry-specific experience (beauty or lash services) is not required to get approved for a franchise loan. Lenders care more about your management experience, financial strength, and the strength of the franchise brand. Amazing Lash Studio provides comprehensive training to all new franchisees, which helps address concerns about industry inexperience during the underwriting process.
The SBA Franchise Registry is a list maintained by the Small Business Administration of franchise brands whose franchise agreements have been pre-reviewed and approved for SBA lending purposes. When a brand is on the registry, SBA lenders do not need to conduct their own review of the franchise agreement, which speeds up the loan approval process considerably. Amazing Lash Studio's registration on this list is a significant benefit for prospective franchisees seeking SBA financing.
Yes, equipment financing is a great way to separate your lash beds, furniture, lighting, and salon equipment from your main business loan. Because the equipment serves as its own collateral, equipment loans are typically easier and faster to obtain. This strategy can reduce the size of your SBA loan and simplify your overall financing structure.
Start by reaching out to Crestmont Capital for a free financing consultation. Our franchise loan specialists will review your financial profile, explain your options, and help you build a loan application that gives you the best possible chance of approval. You can also begin by pulling your credit report, gathering your financial documents, and reviewing the Amazing Lash Studio FDD - all steps that will prepare you for a fast and smooth application process.
Request the Amazing Lash Studio FDD
Contact Amazing Lash Studio's franchise development team to request the Franchise Disclosure Document. Federal law requires them to provide this at least 14 days before you sign any agreement. Study it carefully, especially Items 7, 19, and 21.
Talk to Existing Franchisees
Item 20 of the FDD lists all current Amazing Lash Studio franchisees with their contact information. Call at least 5-10 of them. Ask about real revenue figures, ramp-up time, staffing challenges, and their experience with corporate support. This due diligence is invaluable.
Check Your Credit and Build Your Financial Profile
Pull your credit reports from all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). Dispute any errors. If your score is below 700, spend 3-6 months improving it before applying. Pay down credit card balances and avoid new hard inquiries.
Build Your Business Plan
Develop a detailed business plan with 3-year financial projections. Include your target market analysis, marketing strategy, staffing plan, and month-by-month revenue ramp-up projections. A strong business plan dramatically improves your loan approval odds.
Apply with Crestmont Capital
Submit your application to Crestmont Capital. Our team will match you with the best lenders for your franchise startup, walk you through every step of the process, and help you close your loan on time. We have helped hundreds of franchise owners across the country get funded - and we can help you too.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Funding terms, qualifications, and product availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific outcomes. For personalized information about your business funding options, contact our team directly.