The number of people shopping on Black Friday is expected to increase by 16 percent this year nationwide, according to CNNMoney.com.
Black Friday, the term used to describe the day after Thanksgiving, for many officially kicks off the holiday shopping season.
Randy Dodsen, store manager of the SuperTarget in Woodstock off Highway 92, said the store is "pretty optimistic" about the crowds it will see on Friday morning.
"It seems like we always have a big turnout in Cherokee," he said. He said November activity started out light, but has been growing throughout the month.
Cleveland Chambers, co-owner of Chamberhouse gift and antiques shop in downtown Canton, has noticed an increase in shopping this holiday season.
"People are buying more than they did last year," he said, adding the store's Pandora Jewelry collection, which they have carried for about a year, remains a top seller. He said shoppers may have a different attitude this year since the economy was reeling during last year's holiday season.
"Last year, they may have had a budget, and they were sticking to it. This year, they are more flexible with their spending," he said about shopper behavior.
Carolyn Jones, co-owner of Three Sisters Gifts in Hickory Flat, said sales in November have been strong and expects that to continue on Black Friday.
"I think that people have been cautious all year," she said about shoppers being budget conscious. "I get the sense that people really, really want to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. I think we need it now more than ever."
She said some people are spreading out their shopping over a longer period of time so they won't get hit with one big bill at the end of the season.
Hot sellers include practical items such as insulated drinking glasses as well as jewelry and handbags.
She said she also has noticed that shopper spirits have picked up.
"There is more enthusiasm from shoppers, even more so than last year," she said.
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